California Institute of Technology
2025 USNews Best Colleges Ranking: 6(↑1) (Click for schools/majors ranking)
Abbreviation/Alias: Caltech
School Characteristics: Private, non-Profit (4-Years)
Calendar systerm: Quarter
Religious Affiliation: Not applicable
School Chief: Thomas F. Rosenbaum (President)
Website: www.caltech.edu/; Phone: 6263956811
Location: 1200 E California Blvd, Pasadena, CA, 91125
California Institute of Technology Important Facts
Tuition Trends and Student Outcomes at California Institute of Technology
Over the years, California Institute of Technology has witnessed a significant increase in tuition fees for both undergraduate and graduate programs. In 2014, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students was $41,538, and by 2024, this amount has escalated to $63,255, marking an increase of over 52%. This rising cost of education is reflective of broader trends seen in higher education across the United States, where institutions are grappling with funding challenges and are increasingly reliant on tuition revenue.
Despite the rising costs, student outcomes at Caltech remain impressive. The graduation rate for undergraduate students who graduate on time has shown resilience, increasing from approximately 81% in 2013 to about 86% in 2023. This upward trend in graduation rates suggests that the quality of education and support provided by the institution continues to meet the needs of its students, countering the financial pressures they face.
Retention rates have also remained robust, fluctuating slightly but ultimately showing a positive trajectory. For instance, the retention rate reached 99% in 2022, indicating that the vast majority of students are satisfied with their experience and choose to continue their education at Caltech. This high retention rate is crucial as it reflects not only student satisfaction but also the effectiveness of the institution in fostering a supportive learning environment.
Additionally, it is interesting to note the gender ratio among students. The proportion of male undergraduate students has gradually decreased from around 63% in 2014 to approximately 55% in 2023, indicating a positive shift towards gender balance. This shift is essential as it aligns with ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within the STEM fields.
In conclusion, while the rising tuition costs at California Institute of Technology present a challenge for prospective students, the institution continues to deliver strong educational outcomes, high retention rates, and a more balanced gender representation, making it a competitive choice for students worldwide.
California Institute of Technology Degrees and Majors
Analysis of Graduate Degrees at California Institute of Technology
The data from the California Institute of Technology reveals significant trends in the distribution of graduate degrees awarded across various fields in 2023. Notably, the engineering disciplines dominate the doctorate degree completions, with Aerospace, Mechanical, and Chemical Engineering each producing a substantial number of graduates. This aligns with the increasing demand for engineering professionals in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Interestingly, the data indicates that international students play a crucial role in several programs. For instance, the number of international students obtaining doctorates in Physics and Chemical Engineering is notably high, accounting for 79% of graduates in Physics and 50% in Chemical Engineering. This highlights Caltech's attractiveness to global talent, particularly in STEM fields, and underscores the importance of international perspectives in scientific research.
On the other hand, fields such as Humanities and Social Sciences show minimal output in terms of graduate numbers. For instance, History and Philosophy have not produced any graduates at the master's or doctorate levels, which raises questions about the prioritization of these disciplines in research funding and institutional support. This trend reflects a broader national narrative where STEM fields are increasingly favored over the humanities, often seen as less directly tied to job market outcomes.
Overall, the data illustrates California Institute of Technology's strong emphasis on engineering and hard sciences while also indicating a concerning trend for the humanities. This presents an opportunity for the institution to enhance its offerings in these areas, potentially fostering a more balanced academic environment that values diverse fields of study.
California Institute of Technology Ranking and Admission
California Institute of Technology Admission Trends and Rankings
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) has demonstrated a remarkable consistency in its academic excellence and selectivity over the years. As of 2025, Caltech ranks 6th in the U.S. News rankings, reflecting its strong reputation among higher education institutions. This ranking is significant as it indicates the institution's enduring commitment to maintaining high academic standards and attracting top-tier students. Examining the admission rates provides insight into the increasing competitiveness of Caltech. The acceptance rate for male applicants has dramatically decreased from approximately 13.68% in 2009 to just 1.86% in 2023, while the acceptance rate for female applicants has also plummeted from about 28.96% to 4.49% in the same period. This trend highlights the growing demand for admission to Caltech and suggests that the institution is becoming more selective, which is a common trend among elite universities nationwide. The enrollment figures have also seen fluctuations, with the number of students accepted peaking at 270 in 2022 before slightly decreasing in subsequent years. The denial rates have spiked, reaching over 16,000 in 2023, further emphasizing the competitive nature of the admissions process. The increasing number of applicants, coupled with a limited enrollment capacity, underscores the challenges prospective students face in gaining admission to such a prestigious institution. In summary, Caltech's high ranking, coupled with its low admission rates, illustrates its position as a leader in science and technology education. As the institution continues to attract brilliant minds, it is likely to remain a top choice for students seeking rigorous academic challenges.
California Institute of Technology Admission Score Requires
*Numbers at left represent SAT/ACT submitting percentage, numbers on blue blocks represent 25%-75% admission scores
**Drag green block to check data for different years, click blue block to check scores trends
Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Caltech (2007-2023)
The data from California Institute of Technology over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates for both the SAT and ACT. From 2007 to 2023, it is evident that the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has decreased sharply, dropping from 99% in 2007 to just 45% in 2021, 2022, and 2023. This decline reflects a broader trend in higher education where many prestigious institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has prompted a reassessment of the role of standardized testing in college admissions.
Despite the declining percentage of test submissions, the scores of those who did submit have shown an upward trend. For instance, the SAT Reading scores have consistently remained high, with the 25th percentile starting at 690 in 2007 and reaching 740 by 2023. Similarly, the upper end of the SAT Math scores has increased from 770 to 780 over the same period. This suggests that, while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to have increasingly competitive scores.
Moreover, the reduction in test submissions could indicate a shift in the admissions strategy at Caltech, emphasizing a more holistic review process that considers a broader range of applicant qualities beyond standardized test performance. As elite institutions continue to navigate the changing landscape of college admissions, the data reflects both the evolving standards and the ongoing debate surrounding the efficacy and fairness of standardized tests in assessing student potential.
California Institute of Technology Students Diversity
Analysis of Student Demographics at California Institute of Technology in 2023
The 2023 student demographic data from the California Institute of Technology reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 224, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of approximately 51.8% male and 48.2% female. This indicates a slightly higher representation of males among the incoming class, which aligns with trends observed in many STEM-focused institutions where male applicants often outnumber female applicants.
In contrast, the undergraduate juniors represent a larger cohort of 750 students, with an even higher male dominance at 55.5%. This could reflect retention patterns and the historical gender disparities in engineering and scientific fields, which have been gradually improving but still show significant gaps.
The data on undergraduate transfers is notably small, with only 8 students, and again, the gender disparity is evident, with 62.5% being male. This limited number may raise questions about the transfer policies and the appeal of Caltech to potential transfer students.
Graduate students make up the largest segment of the student body, with 1,419 individuals, heavily skewed towards males at 65.3%. This significant male predominance in graduate studies may reflect broader trends in STEM fields, where male participation remains high, particularly in research-intensive roles.
Additionally, an analysis of the racial and ethnic breakdown within these categories shows that, while the overall student population is predominantly white, there are efforts to increase diversity, particularly among underrepresented groups. Understanding these demographics is crucial for addressing inclusivity and creating a balanced environment that fosters innovation and collaboration among all students.
As institutions continue to strive for diversity and equity, ongoing monitoring and supportive measures will be essential to ensure that all student demographics feel represented and valued within the academic community.
California Institute of Technology Students Age Distribution
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Caltech 2023
The age distribution of students at the California Institute of Technology in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of its academic community. The majority of undergraduate students fall within the 18-21 age range, which is typical for institutions that attract a youthful population. Specifically, students aged 18-19 constitute approximately 28.6% of the total student body, while the 20-21 age group accounts for about 29.4%. This trend indicates that Caltech maintains a vibrant environment for younger students, likely enhancing collaborative learning and innovation.
As students age, the composition shifts notably, particularly among graduate students. The 22-24 age bracket includes a substantial number of graduate males, totaling 316, which aligns with the trend of students pursuing advanced degrees shortly after completing their undergraduate studies. Interestingly, the 25-29 age group has a significant presence as well, especially among graduate females, where they make up about 68.9% of the total female graduate population.
The presence of students aged 30 and above, although limited, adds diversity to the academic environment. With a few individuals in their 30s and 40s, the institution shows inclusivity toward non-traditional students, which is increasingly important in higher education as more individuals pursue lifelong learning opportunities.
On a broader scale, these trends reflect a national narrative in higher education, where institutions are increasingly accommodating a diverse range of ages and backgrounds. The data underscores Caltech's commitment to fostering an inclusive academic community that embraces both youth and experience, essential for nurturing innovation and comprehensive learning.
California Institute of Technology International Students Trends
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Caltech
The data on international student enrollment at the California Institute of Technology reveals noteworthy trends over the years. For undergraduate programs, the percentage of international students has shown a general increase from 7.52% in 2004 to a peak of 12.07% in 2012, before experiencing fluctuations in the following years. By 2023, this figure stands at 9.37%. This indicates that while the university has made strides in attracting international undergraduates, the growth rate has not been consistent.
In contrast, graduate programs at Caltech have seen a more significant presence of international students. The proportion of international graduate students grew from 38.95% in 2004 to a remarkable 47.19% in 2020, reflecting the institution's strong appeal to graduate scholars from around the globe. While there has been a slight decline to 44.12% in 2023, this level of representation remains robust and highlights the university's international reputation in research and advanced studies.
The fluctuations in enrollment figures can be attributed to various external factors, including changing immigration policies, global events, and shifts in the competitive landscape of higher education. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, has had a considerable impact on international student mobility, which may explain some of the variability in enrollment figures in recent years.
Overall, Caltech continues to attract a diverse student body, with international students playing a crucial role in enriching the academic environment. The persistence of high percentages among graduate students suggests that the university is successfully positioning itself as a leader in attracting global talent, crucial for fostering innovation and research excellence.
California Institute of Technology Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some notable schools surrounding the California Institute of Technology:
University of Southern California (南加州大学) - Ranked 27th in the 2025 US News rankings, USC is a comprehensive university known for its vibrant campus life and strong programs in business, cinema, and engineering.
University of California-Los Angeles (加州大学洛杉矶分校) - With a rank of 15, UCLA is a prestigious public research university that offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields.
Pomona College (波莫纳学院) - Ranked 5th among liberal arts colleges, Pomona is known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus, providing a personalized education experience.
Claremont McKenna College (克莱尔蒙特麦克纳学院) - This liberal arts college ranks 8th and is recognized for its strong emphasis on economics and government studies.
Harvey Mudd College (哈维穆德学院) - Ranked 12th, Harvey Mudd is renowned for its engineering, science, and mathematics programs, attracting students with a passion for STEM fields.
Scripps College (斯克里普斯学院) - With a rank of 44, Scripps is an all-women's liberal arts college that focuses on the arts and humanities, fostering a supportive and empowering environment for its students.
These institutions, with their distinguished programs and diverse offerings, contribute to the rich educational landscape surrounding Caltech.
Campus Safety
Analysis of Crime Data at California Institute of Technology
The crime data from the California Institute of Technology over the years presents a concerning trend, especially when focusing on the average number of offenses per 1,000 students. Starting from a low of 8.92 in 2013, the crime rate has seen a significant increase, peaking at 50.60 in 2019. This spike is alarming and raises questions about the safety measures and campus environment during these years.
Notably, the year 2017 recorded a dramatic rise in offenses, with an average rate of 29.82 per 1,000 students, which suggests that there may have been specific incidents or conditions contributing to this rise. The data also reveal that incidents related to drug arrests, alcohol-related offenses, and domestic violence have fluctuated, indicating that these issues may be systemic within the campus culture.
Interestingly, after 2019, there seems to be a decline in the average crime rate, with figures dropping to 20.71 in 2021. This could possibly reflect improved safety protocols or a change in student behavior during the global pandemic, which may have limited campus activities.
The fluctuating patterns of crime at Caltech underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and intervention. The university community must remain vigilant, promoting safety and support systems to address these challenges effectively. For anyone interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further information can be found at the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Reference
- California Institute of Technology Official Website
- USNews Best Colleges Ranking
- USNews Bset Global Universities Ranking
- THE World University Ranking
- QS World University Ranking
- ARWU World University Ranking
- US Department of Education College Scorecard
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Forward Pathway US College Ranking Database
California Institute of Technology Related News
The Development of Political Methodology and Its Impact on Elections
Published on: November 9, 2024 | Updated on: November 9, 2024
Introduction to Political Methodology and Jonathan N. Katz Political methodology serves as a cornerstone in the field of political science, providing researchers with the tools to analyze complex political phenomena through systematic and empirical approaches. By employing quantitative techniques, p...
Category: Colleges News by LLM | Tags: Artificial Intelligence, California Institute of Technology, Election Fairness, Gerrymandering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, New York University, Political Methodology, Quantitative ResearchRemembering Stephen R. Onderdonk: A Legacy in Education
Published on: November 7, 2024 | Updated on: November 7, 2024
The Legacy of Stephen R. Onderdonk at Caltech Stephen R. Onderdonk's life and contributions to the California Institute of Technology (2025 USNews Ranking: 6) (Caltech) stand as a testament to the impact that dedicated leadership can have on an academic institution. Born on January 25, 1944, in Eva...
Category: Colleges News by LLM | Tags: Board Member, California Institute of Technology, Caltech, Education, Stephen R. Onderdonk, tribute, University of Southern CaliforniaJamie Tijerina: Bridging Community Engagement and Research
Published on: November 7, 2024 | Updated on: November 7, 2024
The Impact of Community Engagement: Jamie Tijerina's Journey Jamie Tijerina stands out as a remarkable figure at the California Institute of Technology (2025 USNews Ranking: 6) (Caltech), where she deftly balances her role as a staff researcher with her deep commitment to community service. Growing...
Category: Colleges News by LLM | Tags: Arts and Culture, California Institute of Technology, community engagement, Economic Pressure, Health Facilities, Michigan State University, Scientific Research, Southern Methodist UniversityWilliam Bridges: Life, Achievements, and Argon Ion Laser Applications
Published on: November 6, 2024 | Updated on: November 6, 2024
Remembering William B. Bridges: A Legacy of Innovation William B. Bridges, a prominent figure in the field of engineering, was born on November 29, 1934, in Inglewood, California. From an early age, Bridges demonstrated exceptional academic prowess, graduating near the top of his class at Inglewood ...
Category: Colleges News by LLM | Tags: Argon Ion Laser, California Institute of Technology, Caltech, Educational Reform, Electrical Engineering, Laser Technology, Research Innovation, William BridgesThe Impact of Alumni Donations on University Infrastructure and Educational Equity
Published on: November 6, 2024 | Updated on: November 6, 2024
The Legacy of Alumni Contributions at Ohio State University The Daley Pavilion at Ohio State University serves as a prime example of how alumni contributions can significantly enhance university infrastructure and foster a vibrant campus community. Opened in late 2023, the pavilion is not just a phy...
Category: Colleges News by LLM | Tags: alumni, California Institute of Technology, Campus Activities, Carnegie Mellon University, donations, Educational Equity, Ohio State University-Main Campus, University InfrastructureThe Relationship Between Fast Radio Bursts and Massive Galaxies
Published on: November 6, 2024 | Updated on: November 6, 2024
Understanding Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) and Magnetars Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are among the most captivating phenomena in modern astrophysics, characterized by their brief yet intense pulses of radio-frequency light that can last only milliseconds. Since their first detection in 2007, over a thousan...
Category: Colleges News by LLM | Tags: California Institute of Technology, Cosmic Evolution, Fast Radio Bursts, Magnetars, Massive Galaxies, Supernova ExplosionsCalifornia Institute of Technology Important Facts Trends
California Institute of Technology degrees/majors
California Institute of Technology major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Astrophysics. | - | |||
Planetary Astronomy and Science. | - | |||
Chemistry, General. | - | |||
Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | |||
Geochemistry. | - | |||
Geophysics and Seismology. | - | |||
Physics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Information Science/Studies. | - | |||
Computer Science. | $173,344 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. | - | |||
Developmental Biology and Embryology. | - | |||
Microbiology, General. | - | |||
Genetics, General. | - | |||
Neuroscience. | - | |||
Neurobiology and Neurosciences, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mathematics, General. | - | |||
Computational Mathematics. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mathematics and Computer Science. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
History, General. | - |
California Institute of Technology Schools/Majors Ranking
Under Ranking (2025)
- Engineering School# 5(→)-
- Aerospace# 4(↑3)
- Electrical / Electronic / Communications# 6(→)
- Chemical Engineering# 8(↓1)
- Computer Engineering# 8(↑2)
- Mechanical Engineering# 8(↓2)
- Materials Engineering# 10(→)
- Biomedical Engineering# 24(↓6)
- Civil Engineering# -(↓15)
- Environmental / Enviromental Health# -(↓18)
- Industrial / Manufacturing# -(↓21)
- Computer Science# 10(↓4)+
- Social Sciences and Humanities+
World University Ranking
Grad Ranking (2025)
- Engineering School# 4(↑3)-
- Chemical Engineering# 2(→)
- Aerospace/Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering# 2(→)
- Mechanical Engineering# 3(→)
- Electrical / Electronic / Communications# 6(↓2)
- Materials Engineering# 8(↑2)
- Biomedical Engineering# 17(↓7)
- Environmental / Enviromental Health# 18(↑3)
- Civil Engineering# 19(↓3)
- Computer Engineering# -(↓8)
- Science+
- Social Sciences and Humanities+
*Rankings have been updated to 2025USNews schools/majors ranking, rankings are for reference only
*numbers in bracket represent rankings change compare to last version
California Institute of Technology Varsity Athletes
NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Soccer | 27 | 27 |
Track and Field (Outdoor) | 27 | 25 |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | 24 | 21 |
Cross Country | 18 | 13 |
Baseball | 27 | - |
Basketball | 12 | 15 |
Tennis | 12 | 12 |
Water Polo | 11 | 13 |
Volleyball | - | 13 |
NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Soccer | 29 | 28 |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | 30 | 20 |
Track and Field (Outdoor) | 30 | 17 |
Basketball | 17 | 15 |
Cross Country | 17 | 12 |
Tennis | 12 | 14 |
Baseball | 25 | - |
Water Polo | 10 | 11 |
Volleyball | - | 14 |
NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Swimming and Diving | 29 | 14 |
Soccer | 18 | 19 |
Track and Field, X-Country | 19 | 15 |
Track and Field, Outdoor | 18 | 15 |
Water Polo | 14 | 13 |
Tennis | 14 | 12 |
Basketball | 10 | 11 |
Baseball | 19 | - |
Volleyball | - | 17 |
The California Institute of Technology, commonly known as Caltech, is a prestigious private research university located in Pasadena, California. Renowned for its rigorous science and engineering programs, Caltech has established itself as a leader in technological innovation and research. The institution was founded in 1891 and has since developed a strong reputation for its high academic standards and a commitment to fostering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. Caltech’s campus is compact, allowing for close interaction among faculty and students, which enhances the overall educational experience.
Caltech’s motto, "The truth shall make you free," underscores its commitment to research and discovery. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on science, engineering, and mathematics. The faculty at Caltech includes numerous Nobel laureates, MacArthur fellows, and members of prestigious academies, ensuring that students receive a world-class education. The school is also known for its vibrant campus culture, which encourages innovation and creativity, exemplified by events like the annual "Ditch Day," where seniors organize elaborate pranks. With state-of-the-art facilities, including cutting-edge laboratories and research centers, Caltech provides an exceptional environment for students to pursue their academic and professional goals. The university's graduates are highly sought after, often leading successful careers in academia, industry, and beyond, further solidifying Caltech's status as a top institution globally.