Occidental College, located in Los Angeles, California, has specific language requirements for non-native English speakers applying to undergraduate and graduate programs. These requirements ensure that students can succeed academically in an English-speaking environment.

Undergraduate Language Requirements

For undergraduate applicants whose first language is not English, Occidental College typically requires one of the following English proficiency tests:

1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

   • Minimum score: 80 on the internet-based test (iBT).

2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

   • Minimum score: 6.5 (overall band score).

3. Duolingo English Test:

   • Minimum score: 105.

4. Other Accepted Tests:

   • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) with a minimum score of 176.
   • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): A minimum score of 58.

Graduate Language Requirements

Graduate programs may have slightly different requirements depending on the specific program. However, the general language proficiency requirements include:

1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

   • Minimum score: 80 on the iBT (internet-based test).

2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

   • Minimum score: 6.5 (overall band score).

3. Duolingo English Test:

   • Minimum score: 105.

4. Other Tests: Some graduate programs may accept scores from PTE Academic or Cambridge English tests. Be sure to check specific program requirements.

Waivers

• Students who have completed at least two years of full-time study at an institution where English is the primary language of instruction may be eligible for a waiver of the language proficiency requirement.
• Additionally, if you have attended a high school where English was the primary language of instruction for at least three years or if you are a citizen of a country where English is an official language, you may be eligible for a waiver.

Additional Considerations

• Some programs may have higher score requirements depending on the nature of the coursework or the specific field of study. Always check the requirements for your intended program.
• It’s important to submit your language proficiency test scores before the application deadline, as the college will use these scores to assess your readiness for academic work in English.

For the most accurate and updated information, it is recommended to refer to Occidental College's official admissions website or contact their admissions office directly.

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Occidental College, located in Los Angeles, California, offers a broad range of academic programs, but it is particularly known for its strong emphasis on the liberal arts. The college provides interdisciplinary courses and encourages students to explore a variety of fields. Some of the key areas of specialty at Occidental College include:

1. International Relations and Diplomacy

Occidental is widely recognized for its robust International Relations program, which is consistently ranked among the top in the nation. The program offers students a comprehensive understanding of global politics, economics, and diplomacy. The department is also known for its global engagement opportunities, including study abroad programs and internships with international organizations.

2. Critical Theory and Social Justice

Occidental College has a strong tradition in Critical Theory, Philosophy, and Social Justice studies. The interdisciplinary approach encourages students to examine power structures, cultural dynamics, and inequality, often with a focus on social change and activism.

3. Environmental Science and Sustainability

The Environmental Science and Sustainability program at Occidental is highly regarded, particularly for its emphasis on interdisciplinary research, hands-on experiences, and engagement with real-world environmental challenges. The college’s Dabney Research Center and Occidental’s Environmental Studies Program offer opportunities for students to engage in research and policy initiatives aimed at addressing sustainability challenges.

4. Theater and Performance Studies

Occidental's Theater Department is one of its most prominent programs, offering students a well-rounded curriculum in acting, directing, and theater production. The department often collaborates with artists and professionals from the broader Los Angeles theater community, giving students unique opportunities in performance, design, and management.

5. Neuroscience and Psychology

The Neuroscience and Psychology departments are highly interdisciplinary at Occidental, with students engaging in research that combines the biological sciences with psychological theories. The college is known for its emphasis on hands-on learning, research projects, and internships with institutions in Los Angeles.

6. Creative Writing and Literature

Occidental has a strong Creative Writing program, with courses covering fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. Students benefit from a close-knit community of writers, as well as access to the vibrant literary culture of Los Angeles.

7. Art and Art History

The Art and Art History departments at Occidental are well-regarded, offering a range of courses that explore contemporary and classical art forms, along with in-depth studies of art history and its global context. Students have access to a number of galleries and exhibits in the Los Angeles area, enriching their studies with exposure to the city's dynamic art scene.

8. Mathematics and Physics

Occidental offers a Mathematics and Physics program that emphasizes both theoretical and applied approaches. The college has strong research opportunities, and students can work closely with faculty members on projects related to fields such as theoretical physics, computational modeling, and mathematical research.

9. Business and Economics

Though not as prominent as some other liberal arts specialties, Occidental offers solid programs in Business and Economics, with a focus on ethical leadership and sustainability. The curriculum integrates practical business knowledge with the liberal arts perspective, fostering a well-rounded education.

10. Media Arts and Studies

Located in Los Angeles, Occidental is well positioned for students interested in Media Arts, Film Studies, and Communication. The program offers students access to internships and collaborations in the heart of the entertainment industry, which is a significant part of the Los Angeles landscape.

Interdisciplinary Programs

Occidental College strongly promotes interdisciplinary programs, allowing students to design their own majors or combine courses across various fields. Some notable interdisciplinary programs include Urban and Environmental Policy, Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE), and Gender Studies.

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Occidental College has a faculty that includes many respected and accomplished professors, though it does not have any universally recognized "top" professors with the level of fame associated with some larger research institutions. However, Occidental’s faculty is known for being deeply committed to teaching, mentorship, and scholarly work in their respective fields. Here are a few faculty members who have garnered attention for their work and contributions to the college and beyond:

1. Dr. Robert C. Smith – Political Science

Dr. Smith is a prominent professor in Political Science at Occidental College. He is widely known for his expertise in American politics and race relations. He has authored several books and articles on the impact of race and ethnicity on American politics, and his work has been influential in shaping discourse on these topics. He has also received numerous teaching awards at Occidental.

2. Dr. David A. Treuer – English and Creative Writing

Dr. Treuer is a renowned novelist and creative writing professor at Occidental. He is known for his work on Native American identity and experiences, blending storytelling with his academic work in literature. Treuer has written extensively on the history and culture of Native Americans, and his novels, such as The Hiawatha, have earned critical acclaim.

3. Dr. Meg Sullivan – Biology

Dr. Sullivan is a respected Biology professor at Occidental, with a focus on ecology and conservation biology. She is known for her research on biodiversity, climate change, and environmental science, and has worked on multiple projects that connect academic study with real-world applications for sustainability.

4. Dr. Steven B. Smith – History

Dr. Smith is a well-regarded History professor at Occidental College, specializing in Latin American history. He is particularly recognized for his research on Mexican and Central American culture and politics, and has contributed significantly to the study of Latin American revolutions and the global history of migration.

5. Dr. Jennifer Keane – Psychology

Dr. Keane is a notable professor in Psychology at Occidental College. Her work focuses on clinical psychology and mental health, particularly related to marginalized communities. She has received recognition for her research into the psychological effects of discrimination and societal inequality.

6. Dr. Jonathan Leicht – Philosophy

Dr. Leicht is a faculty member in Philosophy at Occidental, known for his work in epistemology, philosophy of mind, and philosophy of science. He is respected for his teaching and mentorship in helping students engage with complex philosophical concepts and practical issues in contemporary life.

Faculty Approach

Many faculty members at Occidental College are recognized for their interdisciplinary approach to teaching, which helps students make connections between various fields of knowledge. Additionally, Occidental's small student-to-faculty ratio allows for close mentorship and collaboration between students and professors, which contributes to the college’s overall academic environment.

In addition to their teaching, professors at Occidental College often engage in research projects, publish books and academic papers, and participate in community service, making them respected scholars in their fields. However, the emphasis at Occidental is on teaching excellence, and many professors are renowned not only for their research but for their ability to inspire students.

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Occidental College is not directly associated with a Nobel Prize laureate in terms of faculty or alumni who have won a Nobel Prize. However, the college has produced notable individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields, such as:

1. Barack Obama – The 44th President of the United States and Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 2009. Obama attended Occidental College for two years before transferring to Columbia University. His Nobel Peace Prize was awarded for his efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples.

2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – While not a Nobel laureate, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, a legendary basketball player and civil rights advocate, is a famous alumnus of Occidental College.

While the college has not produced a Nobel laureate as of now, it is highly regarded for its commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and public service, which aligns with the spirit of the Nobel Prize.