California Institute of Technology

California Institute of Technology
Founded in 1891 as Throop University, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech for short) explores fundamental concepts in science and engineering. Throughout its history, the Pasadena-based university has broken barriers in research and technology, from its 31 Nobel laureates to the more than 2,000 U.S patents obtained since 1980, which is more than any other university on a per-capita basis. Additionally, the school is a hotbed of creativity and creation, with 40 to 50 inventions commercially licensed each year and more than 120 start-up companies created by Caltech faculty and students since 1995. Its contributions to science and technology are also famous, as Caltech scientists are credited with the discovery of anti-matter; laying the foundations of molecular biology; the birth of modern earthquake science; establishing the recommended daily requirements for human nutrition; acknowledging the left brain/right brain concept; and pioneering aerospace technology, to name just a few. Caltech has a strong science and engineering focus, pioneering the fields of molecular biology, geochemistry, aerospace, earthquake engineering, and astrophysics. There are nearly 30 programs at the undergraduate and graduate level from which to choose. No matter the course of study, the education includes the basic sciences, humanities, and social science, as well as three or more terms of physical education. Students will also find opportunities to study abroad, conduct hands-on research, and gain clinical experience. Caltech is also home to more than 500 scientists and engineers who conduct research in earth, planetary, astrophysical, and technology studies, including through the school’s renowned Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the nerve center of America’s robotic space program. Caltech is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. It has held this distinction since 1949, and was most-recently reaffirmed for accreditation in July 2010. The next review process will begin in spring 2018.