The 5 Best Colleges Near Montclair, California

Montclair, California, is a picturesque city located in the Pomona Valley and is part of San Bernardino County. While Montclair itself doesn’t host large universities, the surrounding areas provide an abundance of top-quality educational institutions. Here are five of the best colleges near Montclair, based on academic rigor, campus life, and overall reputation:

Pomona College:

Location: Claremont, CA

Overview: Just a stone’s throw away from Montclair, Pomona College is one of the nation's leading liberal arts colleges. Established in 1887, it's a foundational member of the Claremont Colleges consortium. Students here enjoy small class sizes, fostering a personal educational experience, and they have the opportunity to engage in a wide range of academic disciplines. The campus is adorned with historic buildings and vast green spaces, providing an inspiring environment for study.

Claremont McKenna College (CMC):

Location: Claremont, CA

Overview: Another gem of the Claremont Colleges consortium, Claremont McKenna College is renowned for its programs in leadership, economics, and political science. Known for creating world leaders and thinkers, CMC boasts a tight-knit community and a commitment to fostering an interdisciplinary approach to the liberal arts. With its diverse student body, CMC also offers various extracurricular activities ranging from athletics to student-led organizations.

Harvey Mudd College:

Location: Claremont, CA

Overview: If STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is your passion, Harvey Mudd College is the place to be. Recognized for its rigorous engineering, mathematics, and science programs, it encourages students not only to excel academically but also to understand the impact of their work on society. Harvey Mudd emphasizes collaboration over competition, ensuring that students are both technically sound and well-rounded individuals.

University of La Verne:

Location: La Verne, CA

Overview: A short drive from Montclair, the University of La Verne is a private not-for-profit university that offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. With its roots going back to 1891, the university promotes values of ethical reasoning, inclusivity, and community engagement. The intimate campus setting and a diverse student body create a welcoming atmosphere where students can thrive academically and personally.

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona):

Location: Pomona, CA

Overview: As one of the top polytechnic universities in the nation, Cal Poly Pomona provides a practice-based approach to learning. Known for its "learn by doing" philosophy, students here engage in hands-on projects and real-world challenges. With a strong emphasis on engineering, architecture, and business, Cal Poly Pomona produces graduates who are ready to make a tangible impact in their respective fields.

Montclair's proximity to these outstanding institutions makes it an ideal location for students and families prioritizing higher education. Whether you're seeking a traditional liberal arts experience, a specialized STEM program, or the diverse offerings of a larger university, the colleges near Montclair cater to a wide range of academic interests and aspirations.