California Institute of Technology
Overview
The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a private research university located in Pasadena, California, United States. Known for its strength in natural science and engineering, Caltech is often ranked as one of the world's top-ten universities.
History
Caltech was founded as a preparatory and vocational school by Amos G. Throop in 1891. It was initially located in Pasadena. During the early 20th century, the school began attracting influential scientists such as George Ellery Hale, Arthur Amos Noyes, and Robert Andrews Millikan. The vocational and preparatory schools were disbanded and spun off in 1910, and the college assumed its present name in 1920.
Campus
The Caltech campus is located in Pasadena, California, approximately 11 kilometers northeast of downtown Los Angeles. It covers 124 acres and is within walking distance of Old Town Pasadena and the Pasadena Playhouse District. The campus architecture is primarily Mediterranean Revival Style, with many of the older buildings designed by architect Bertram Goodhue.
Academics
Caltech offers top-ranked programs in science and engineering. It operates on a quarter system, with the academic year typically beginning in late September and ending in mid-June. The institute is organized into six primary academic divisions: Biology & Biological Engineering, Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Engineering & Applied Science, Geological & Planetary Sciences, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Physics, Mathematics & Astronomy.
Research
Caltech is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity". Research at Caltech includes foundational work in diverse areas from quantum mechanics and the nature of light, to the boundaries of the universe with the development of advanced telescopes and the discovery of distant planets.
Student life
Student life at Caltech is governed by the Honor Code, which states: "No member of the Caltech community shall take unfair advantage of any other member of the Caltech community." This Honor Code governs all aspects of academic life and student conduct at Caltech.
Notable alumni and faculty
Caltech alumni and faculty include 39 Nobel laureates, 6 Turing Award winners, and 4 Fields Medalists, among numerous other awards. The faculty and alumni have founded many companies, including Intel and Hotmail.