| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location:
Whittier College
13406 Philadelphia Street, Whittier, CA 90601, USA
Student Population:
Approximately 1,200–1,500 students, providing a close-knit, supportive learning environment.
Affiliation:
Although originally founded by Quakers, the college is now a non-sectarian institution and welcomes students of all backgrounds.
Academic Focus:
Whittier offers more than 30 majors and minors in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as pre-professional programs.
Popular majors include Business, Biology, Psychology, Political Science, and English.
The college is also known for its Whittier Scholars Program, which allows students to design their own interdisciplinary major.
Student-Faculty Ratio:
12:1, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship.
Campus:
Whittier College is situated on a beautiful 74-acre campus, with historic buildings and modern facilities. Its central location provides easy access to Los Angeles, the beach, and other attractions.
Whittier College competes in NCAA Division III as part of the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC). Its sports teams are known as the Poets, reflecting the college's connection to its namesake, John Greenleaf Whittier. Popular sports include football, basketball, soccer, and water polo.
Richard Nixon – 37th President of the United States (Class of 1934).
Andrea Barber – Actress known for her role as Kimmy Gibbler on Full House and Fuller House.
George Allen – Hall of Fame NFL Coach.
Leland Jessup – Renowned geologist.
Diversity & Inclusion: Whittier College is proud of its diverse student body, with students from different ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Clubs & Organizations: Students can join over 70 clubs, including academic societies, cultural organizations, and service groups.
The Rock Tradition: Students and organizations are allowed to paint "The Rock," a landmark on campus, as a way of expressing creativity and promoting events.
As of recent data, the annual tuition for Whittier College is approximately $55,000, but most students receive some form of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.
Whittier College has a strong tradition of community service and encourages students to engage in meaningful projects.
The college emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and real-world experiences, including internships and study-abroad programs.
Whittier College offers over 30 majors and minors across disciplines in the arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and business. Many programs are flexible and allow for interdisciplinary study.
Humanities and Arts
Art and Visual Studies (Studio Art, Art History)
English (Literature, Creative Writing)
History
Music
Philosophy
Religious Studies
Theatre and Communication Arts
Social Sciences
Anthropology
Business Administration
Economics
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry (including Biochemistry)
Environmental Science
Kinesiology
Mathematics
Physics
Interdisciplinary Programs
Global & Cultural Studies
Environmental Studies
Whittier Scholars Program (Create a personalized, interdisciplinary major tailored to specific interests.)
Whittier College offers pre-professional tracks that help students prepare for graduate and professional programs in various fields:
Pre-Law
Pre-Med/Pre-Health (including pre-dental, pre-pharmacy, pre-veterinary, and more)
Pre-Engineering
Pre-Teaching/Education
The Whittier Scholars Program (WSP) is one of the most unique academic opportunities at Whittier. It allows students to design their own major by integrating coursework from multiple disciplines, which is ideal for students with highly specialized or unconventional academic interests.
The Business Administration program is one of the most popular at Whittier College and offers a strong foundation in management, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. Students in this program often pair it with economics or take advantage of internships in nearby Los Angeles.
Whittier emphasizes hands-on, research-based learning in its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs. Students often participate in research projects, internships, and environmental fieldwork, especially in the fields of biology, chemistry, and environmental science.
In addition to the majors listed above, Whittier College offers minors in areas such as:
Chicano/Latino Studies
Gender Studies
Film Studies
Public Health
Data Science
Whittier College provides strong support for students aiming to continue their education in graduate or professional schools. Students receive personalized advising, and many programs include capstone experiences like internships, research, and senior projects to build professional skills.
Whittier encourages students to enhance their academic experience by studying abroad. Programs are available in countries across the globe, allowing students to earn academic credit while gaining international experience.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Art and Visual Studies |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
English |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Global & Cultural Studies |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
History |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Kinesiology |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Religious Studies |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Theatre and Communication Arts |
4 years |
$55,260 |
|
Whittier Scholars Program (Custom Major) |
4 years |
$55,260 |
Small Class Sizes & Individual Attention
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, Whittier provides a highly personalized learning environment.
Diverse Community
The campus celebrates cultural diversity, with students coming from over 30 countries.
Location
Whittier is located near Los Angeles, providing easy access to career opportunities, entertainment, and cultural landmarks.
Scholarships for International Students
Whittier offers merit-based scholarships to international students, which help reduce the cost of tuition.
Support for International Students
Dedicated support services, including immigration advising, orientation, and academic support, help international students transition and succeed.
International students applying to Whittier College must meet the following requirements:
Application Form
Submit the Common Application or the Whittier College online application.
Academic Transcripts
Provide official high school transcripts or equivalent.
If documents are not in English, certified translations must be provided.
English Proficiency Test Scores
Accepted tests and minimum scores:
TOEFL iBT: 80
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 110
Students who have studied in English-speaking institutions may be exempt from this requirement.
Letters of Recommendation
At least one letter from a teacher or counselor.
Personal Statement/Essay
A written essay that reflects the applicant's personality, goals, and reasons for choosing Whittier College.
SAT/ACT Scores (Optional)
Whittier is test-optional, meaning international students are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores but may do so if they choose.
Passport Copy
A scanned copy of the student's passport is required for processing the I-20 form (for F-1 student visa applications).
Applicants can apply to Whittier College using one of the following options:
Common Application (preferred by most students).
Website: N/A
Whittier College Online Application (available on the college's website).
Website: N/A
The following materials are required to complete your application:
1. Completed Application Form
Submit through the Common Application or Whittier's online portal.
2. Official High School Transcripts
Include grades from all completed high school coursework.
Transcripts must be sent directly from the school in a sealed envelope or electronically.
3. Personal Statement/Essay
A personal essay of 250–650 words, typically submitted through the Common Application.
The essay is an opportunity to showcase your personality, goals, and reasons for applying to Whittier College.
4. Letters of Recommendation
One or two letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors who know you well and can speak about your academic performance and character.
5. Standardized Test Scores (Optional)
Whittier College is test-optional, meaning you do not need to submit SAT or ACT scores for admission.
If you choose to submit scores, the college's school codes are:
SAT: 4952
ACT: 0480
6. English Proficiency Test Scores (for international students only)
If English is not your first language, you must submit one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
Duolingo: Minimum score of 110
7. Application Fee
A non-refundable application fee of $50 is required. Fee waivers are available for eligible students.
Certain students may need to provide additional materials:
Transfer Students: Submit college transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
Homeschool Students: Provide a detailed curriculum, standardized test scores, and recommendations.
Domestic Students: Submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to be considered for need-based financial aid.
Whittier's FAFSA Code: 001342
International Students: Merit-based scholarships are automatically considered with the application. Need-based financial aid may also be available through additional forms.
Once you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation email with login details to the Applicant Portal. Use this portal to check the status of your application and confirm that all required materials have been received.
While not mandatory, applicants are encouraged to schedule an interview (virtual or in-person) with an admissions counselor to provide more context about their application and ask questions about Whittier College.
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Semester Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
Early Action: January 15 |
Late August |
|
|
Regular Decision: February 1 |
|
|
Spring Semester |
November 1 |
Mid-January |
Fall Semester is the most popular intake, as most programs and scholarships are available during this period.
Spring Semester is ideal for students who wish to start mid-year, but fewer scholarships may be available.
The eligibility requirements vary slightly between domestic and international students, but both must meet Whittier College’s academic and language standards.
1. Academic Eligibility
Applicants must have successfully completed their high school education (or equivalent) before enrolling at Whittier College.
A strong academic record is required, with a recommended GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or higher.
Rigorous coursework, including Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or Honors courses, is highly encouraged.
2. English Language Proficiency (for International Students)
International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following tests:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 110
Students who have studied in English-speaking schools for at least three years may request an exemption from this requirement.
3. Standardized Tests (Optional)
Whittier College is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission.
However, submitting strong scores can enhance your application:
SAT: Recommended score of 1150–1350
ACT: Recommended score of 23–28
4. Additional Requirements for International Students
International students must also provide:
A copy of their passport for visa processing.
Proof of financial capability to cover tuition and living expenses (for the issuance of the I-20 form, required for an F-1 student visa).
Letter(s) of recommendation (at least one from a teacher or counselor).
Ranking Organization |
Category |
Rank/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
US News & World Report |
National Liberal Arts Colleges |
Ranked in Top 150–200 |
|
US News & World Report |
Social Mobility (National Liberal Arts Colleges) |
Top 30 |
|
Forbes |
America’s Top Colleges |
Not Ranked in Top 500 |
|
Niche |
Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America |
Grade: B+ |
|
Washington Monthly |
Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings |
Ranked in Top 200 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Renewable? |
Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Based on academic performance (GPA, coursework, etc.). |
$10,000–$30,000 per year |
Yes (up to 4 years) |
Automatically considered during admission. |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
Outstanding academic achievement (high GPA and rigor). |
$25,000–$30,000 per year |
Yes (up to 4 years) |
Top-performing students are eligible. |
|
John Greenleaf Whittier Scholarship |
Academic excellence and leadership qualities. |
$15,000–$20,000 per year |
Yes (up to 4 years) |
Named after the college’s namesake. |
|
Talent Scholarships |
Exceptional talent in art, music, or theater. |
$1,000–$12,000 per year |
Yes (up to 4 years) |
Auditions/portfolio may be required. |
|
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship |
For transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa. |
$12,000–$15,000 per year |
Yes (up to 3 years) |
Proof of membership required. |
|
International Student Scholarships |
Based on academic merit for international students. |
$10,000–$30,000 per year |
Yes (up to 4 years) |
Automatically considered during admission. |
|
RaiseMe Micro-Scholarships |
Earned by completing specific achievements in high school. |
(up to $8,000/year) |
Yes (up to 4 years) |
Must sign up on RaiseMe platform before admission. |
|
Community College Transfer Scholarship |
For transfer students from community colleges. |
$15,000–$20,000 per year |
Yes (up to 3 years) |
Must meet transfer student requirements. |
|
Need-Based Grants |
Based on demonstrated financial need (FAFSA required). |
(amounts differ) |
Yes (up to 4 years) |
Domestic students must file FAFSA; intl. may apply for aid. |
Residence Hall |
Type of Rooms |
Features & Amenities |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Harris Residence Hall |
Double & Triple Rooms |
Common lounges, shared bathrooms, Wi-Fi, air conditioning |
$6,810–$8,000 |
|
Stauffer Residence Hall |
Single, Double, & Triple Rooms |
Study spaces, common areas, laundry facilities, community events |
$7,300–$8,400 |
|
Ball Hall |
Double & Triple Rooms |
Central location, study lounges, shared bathrooms, and Wi-Fi |
$6,800–$8,000 |
|
Johnson Hall |
Single & Double Rooms |
Quiet study spaces, shared kitchens, laundry, close to academic buildings |
$7,400–$8,800 |
|
Wanberg Residence Hall |
Double Rooms |
Shared bathrooms, spacious common rooms, and Wi-Fi |
$6,800–$8,200 |
|
Turner Residence Hall |
Single, Double & Suite-Style Rooms |
Suite-style living, private bathrooms, study areas, and lounges |
$8,800–$10,000 |
|
Off-Campus Apartments (limited) |
Studio & 1-2 Bedroom Apartments |
Fully furnished, kitchen facilities, private bathrooms |
$9,000–$11,500 |
Expense |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Meal Plan (19 meals/week) |
$6,000–$6,500 |
|
Laundry Services |
Included in housing fee |
|
Utilities (electricity, Wi-Fi, etc.) |
Included in housing fee |
1. Diversity and Inclusion
Whittier College is known for its diverse student body, with students from various ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The campus fosters an environment of inclusivity where students feel welcomed and valued. Over 30 countries are represented among the student population, making it a truly multicultural environment.
2. Clubs and Organizations
There are more than 70 student clubs and organizations on campus that cater to a wide range of interests, including academic, cultural, social, and service-oriented activities. Popular organizations include:
International Student Association (ISA): Helps international students integrate and feel at home.
Student Government Association (ASWC): Provides students a voice in campus decision-making.
Cultural Clubs: Groups like the Black Student Union, MEChA (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán), and the Asian Student Association promote cultural awareness.
Performing Arts: Opportunities in theater productions, choirs, and music ensembles.
3. Academic and Leadership Opportunities
Whittier College emphasizes student leadership and experiential learning. Students can engage in:
Research Projects: Opportunities to work closely with faculty on academic research.
Internships: The Career Center helps students secure internships in nearby Los Angeles, a hub for media, business, and technology.
Community Service: The college encourages students to give back to the local community through various service projects and initiatives.
4. Residential Life
Living on campus is an integral part of the Whittier College experience. Residence halls are designed to foster community, and students often form lifelong friendships. The Residential Life staff organizes social events, study groups, and workshops to create a supportive living environment.
5. Athletics and Recreation
Whittier College competes in the NCAA Division III as part of the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC). Popular sports include:
Football
Soccer
Basketball
Water Polo
Track and Field For non-athletes, the campus offers a variety of intramural sports and recreational facilities, such as a gym, swimming pool, and outdoor spaces.
6. Campus Events and Traditions
Whittier College has several unique events and traditions that enhance student life:
The Rock: A large campus landmark where students paint messages, celebrate milestones, or promote events.
WhittFest: An annual campus festival with music, food, and entertainment.
Poet Pride Days: Celebrating school spirit, as Whittier’s mascot is "The Poets."
7. Study Abroad Programs
Students at Whittier College have the chance to participate in study abroad programs in countries all over the world. These programs enhance academic learning and provide exposure to different cultures and global perspectives.
8. Career Services and Support
The Career Center offers personalized support to help students prepare for life after graduation. Services include:
Resume building and interview workshops.
Networking events and career fairs.
Assistance with applications for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for international students.
9. Proximity to Los Angeles
Whittier’s location near Los Angeles provides students with access to world-class entertainment, cultural experiences, and professional opportunities. Students can easily visit iconic locations such as Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Disneyland.
10. Health and Wellness
The college prioritizes student well-being by offering:
Counseling Services: Free and confidential mental health support.
Health Center: On-campus medical services for minor health issues.
Fitness Classes: Yoga, Zumba, and other wellness activities.
11. Dining Options
The main dining hall, The Campus Inn, offers a variety of meal options, including vegetarian, vegan, and globally inspired dishes. There are also other on-campus eateries like The Spot, which serves snacks, coffee, and quick bites.
12. Support Services for International Students
Whittier College provides specific support for international students through the Office of International Programs (OIP). Services include:
Immigration and visa advising.
Special orientation programs.
Cultural adjustment workshops.
1. Career Center Services
Whittier College's Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) provides comprehensive support to help students transition from college to career. Services include:
Career counseling and guidance.
Resume and cover letter workshops.
Mock interviews and interview preparation.
Job search strategies and resources.
Networking events with alumni and employers.
Assistance with graduate school applications.
2. Internships and Work Experience
Internships are a critical part of career preparation at Whittier College. Students are encouraged to gain real-world experience through:
Internships in nearby Los Angeles, which is a hub for industries like business, entertainment, media, and technology.
Opportunities to intern with local organizations, businesses, and non-profits in fields such as healthcare, education, government, and more.
Access to summer internship programs across the U.S. and internationally.
Work-study positions on campus to build professional skills while earning money.
3. Alumni Network
Whittier College has a strong alumni network, and the college frequently organizes:
Networking events where current students can connect with alumni working in various industries.
Mentorship programs, where alumni guide students on career paths and provide advice.
Alumni who serve as recruiters or provide internship and job opportunities for Whittier graduates.
4. Graduate School Preparation
Many Whittier College graduates go on to pursue advanced degrees in fields like law, medicine, business, and education. The Career Center offers:
Pre-law, pre-med, and pre-engineering tracks to help students prepare for professional schools.
Guidance on selecting and applying to graduate schools.
Support with personal statements and recommendation letters.
5. Employment and Salary Outcomes
While detailed placement data may vary by program and year, Whittier College reports strong post-graduation outcomes:
Approximately 90% of students are employed or enrolled in graduate school within 6 months of graduation.
Graduates enter diverse industries, including business, healthcare, education, government, technology, and the arts.
Common job titles include:
Marketing Coordinator
Financial Analyst
Research Assistant
Software Engineer
Public Relations Specialist
Teacher/Educator
Healthcare Consultant
Top Employers of Whittier College Graduates
Graduates of Whittier College work in a wide variety of industries. Some notable employers include:
Walt Disney Company
NBCUniversal
Amazon
Kaiser Permanente
Bank of America
Los Angeles Unified School District
U.S. Government Agencies
PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
Children's Hospital Los Angeles
Popular Career Fields for Whittier College Graduates
Business and Finance
Accounting, Marketing, Management, and Financial Analysis.
Healthcare and Medicine
Nursing, Public Health, and Pre-Med pathways leading to medical school.
Education and Teaching
Teaching positions in elementary, secondary, and higher education.
Technology and IT
Software development, IT consulting, and data analysis.
Media and Entertainment
Opportunities in film, television, and digital media industries, especially due to Whittier’s proximity to Los Angeles.
Government and Non-Profit
Policy analysis, social work, and community engagement.
Support for International Students
International students receive specific career support, including:
Guidance on Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which allow them to gain work experience in the U.S.
Help with networking and finding internships and jobs tailored to international students.
Assistance with immigration and work visa processes post-graduation.
Success Stories
Whittier College has a legacy of producing successful graduates. Notable alumni include:
Richard Nixon – 37th President of the United States.
Andrea Barber – Actress, known for her role in Full House and Fuller House.
George Allen – Hall of Fame NFL coach.
Leland Jessup – Renowned geologist and environmentalist.
The acceptance rate of Whittier College is approximately 81%. This means that Whittier College has a moderately selective admission process, admitting the majority of students who meet its academic and application requirements.
Whittier College is inclusive and accessible, offering opportunities to students from diverse academic and socioeconomic backgrounds.
While the acceptance rate is high, the college still places emphasis on the quality of the application, including:
Academic performance (GPA and coursework rigor).
Personal statement/essay.
Letters of recommendation.
Extracurricular involvement and leadership.
Academic Performance:
A recommended high school GPA of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) strengthens your chances of admission.
Taking advanced courses like AP, IB, or Honors classes is encouraged.
Holistic Review Process:
Whittier College uses a holistic approach, considering more than just grades and test scores.
The personal essay and letters of recommendation are highly valued.
Test-Optional Policy:
Applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores, but doing so can enhance the application if the scores are strong.
Campus Address:
Whittier College
13406 Philadelphia Street,
Whittier, CA 90601,
United States
