Whittier College, a private liberal arts institution in Southern California, offers a personalized and diverse educational experience rooted in its Quaker heritage and commitment to social mobility. Established in 1887 and now secular, it provides over 30 undergraduate majors and a master’s in education, with standout programs like the individualized Whittier Scholars Program and strong pre-professional advising.
The 95-acre campus near Los Angeles fosters a vibrant student life with 40+ clubs, unique traditions, and NCAA Division III athletics. With a student body of about 815—69% of whom are students of color—and a low 8:1 student-faculty ratio, Whittier emphasizes inclusivity and mentorship.
Financial aid is robust, with most students receiving assistance, and notable alumni include President Richard Nixon and actress Andrea Barber. Recognized for its impact on social mobility, Whittier continues to empower students through academic rigor, community engagement, and leadership development.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Whittier, California (near Los Angeles) |
| Founded | 1887 |
| Type | Private Liberal Arts College |
| Campus Size | 95 acres |
| Student Enrollment | 815 (as of Spring 2024) |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 8:1 |
| Acceptance Rate | 72–86% |
| Avg. GPA (Admits) | 3.73–4.0 (weighted, middle 50%) |
| SAT/ACT (Mid 50%) | SAT: 1060–1200; ACT: 21–27 (optional) |
| Popular Majors | Business, Psychology, Biology, Computer Science, Global Studies |
| Unique Programs | Whittier Scholars Program (customized majors), Pre-Health & Engineering paths |
| Graduate Program | M.A. in Education |
| Tuition (2025–26) | $50,410 |
| Average Cost After Aid | ~$20,000 per year |
| Financial Aid | 85%+ of students receive aid; merit scholarships up to $36,000/year |
| Housing | 60% live on campus |
| Athletics | NCAA Division III (SCIAC); 18 varsity teams |
| Notable Alumni | Richard Nixon, Andrea Barber, Cassey Ho, Cheryl Boone Isaacs |
| Institution Status | Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), Minority Serving Institution |
| Diversity | 69% students of color; 30% international students |
Whittier College: A Deep Dive into the Southern California Liberal Arts Institution
Whittier College, a private liberal arts college located in Whittier, California, boasts a rich history, a commitment to diversity, and a unique approach to education. Founded in 1887 and named after the Quaker abolitionist and poet John Greenleaf Whittier, the institution has evolved into a distinctive national liberal arts college. While historically Quaker, the college became secular in the 1940s, though it continues to honor its Quaker heritage through a focus on community, diversity, and finding common ground.
History and Campus
Nestled on a 95-acre (38-hectare) campus in the La Puente hills of suburban Whittier, close to Los Angeles, the college offers a picturesque setting. The campus architecture blends contemporary styles with traditional red-roofed, white-walled Spanish designs. A notable landmark, “The Rock,” at the front of campus, serves as a canvas for student groups, constantly painted over with new messages and designs.
The college houses a state-of-the-art image processing facility and an extensive collection of aerial photographs of Southern California.
Academics and Programs
Whittier College is known for its personalized approach to education and emphasis on experiential learning. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Undergraduate Education: Whittier operates on a 4-1-4 system, comprising full fall and spring semesters, each four months long, and a month-long January Interim. The Interim is dedicated to concentrated courses or off-campus study, providing unique learning opportunities.
The college offers 32 majors and a variety of minors and program options across liberal arts and sciences. Some notable fields of study include:
- Anthropology
- Art & Visual Studies (with tracks in Art History & Visual Culture, Graphic Design, Studio Art, Visual Culture & Visual Media)
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Business Administration (with concentrations in Accounting, Finance, International Business, Management, Marketing)
- Economics
- Global & Cultural Studies
- History
- Integrated Computer Science
- Kinesiology
- Mathematics
- Music
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political Science
- Psychological Sciences
- Religious Studies
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Spanish
A distinctive program at Whittier is the Whittier Scholars Program (WSP), which allows students to design an individualized major and coursework tailored to their specific interests and career goals. WSP students are largely exempt from general education requirements but must complete a senior project and three Scholar seminars.
Whittier also provides strong pre-professional advising programs for students aspiring to careers in health sciences (medical, dental, optometry, chiropractic, veterinary), physical therapy, and engineering (through cooperative programs with other colleges). All freshmen are required to take a full year of writing courses.
Graduate Education: Currently, Whittier College offers one graduate degree: a Master’s degree in Education.
Former Law School: Whittier Law School, previously located on a satellite campus in Costa Mesa, California, was part of Whittier College. It closed in 2017.
Student Life
Student life at Whittier College is vibrant and diverse, with over 40 active clubs and 10 “societies” (Whittier’s equivalent of fraternities and sororities). These organizations cater to a wide range of interests, from ethnic clubs and communication groups to performing arts and student government. The Associated Students of Whittier College (ASWC) Senate is the campus-wide student government organization.
Annual events include the Spring Sing talent show, the Hawaiian-themed Mona Kai party, and Sportsfest, a three-day event featuring athletic competitions and intellectual games. Approximately 60% of students live in campus housing, with options including traditional dormitories and the Faculty Masters Program, where students share houses with senior staff and their families.
Athletics
The Whittier Poets compete in NCAA Division III intercollegiate athletics as part of the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC). The college fields 18 teams (8 men’s and 10 women’s), and approximately 30% of the student body participates in one or more teams.
Whittier has a rich football history, with 26 SCIAC conference titles since the conference’s inception in 1915. Notable former coaches include George Allen and Don Coryell, both of whom went on to achieve success in the NFL.
Admissions and Enrollment
Whittier College admissions are considered somewhat selective.
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 72-86%.
- Average GPA of admitted students: The middle 50% of admitted first-year students (grades 9-11, weighted) had a GPA between 3.73 and 4.0.
- SAT/ACT Scores: While considered if submitted, they are not always required. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is typically 1060–1200, and the ACT range is 21–27.
- Application Requirements: High school GPA, high school transcript, college preparatory courses, and recommendations are generally required. An essay is also typically required.
As of Spring 2024, Whittier College had an enrollment of 815 undergraduate and graduate students. The student-faculty ratio is a low 8 to 1, facilitating personalized attention and mentorship. The college is recognized as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), and students of color constitute about 69% of the student body, making it one of the most diverse liberal arts colleges in the U.S. Approximately 67% of enrolled students are from California, with 3% from other U.S. states and 30% from outside the U.S. (from 24 countries).
Tuition and Financial Aid
For the 2025-2026 academic year, the estimated cost of attendance includes:
- Tuition: $50,410
- Fees: $940
- Room (double): $8,631
- Board (15 meals per week): $6,840
Whittier College is committed to making education accessible.
- More than 85% of students receive some form of financial aid.
- In Fall 2023, Whittier College awarded over $60 million in scholarships and merit awards.
- Every admitted student is considered for a John Greenleaf Whittier Scholarship, a 4-year renewable scholarship ranging from $20,000 to $36,000 per year, based on academic record and overall applicant strength. No additional application is needed for this scholarship.
- The average out-of-pocket tuition cost per student is approximately $20,000 per year.
- Financial aid packages often combine Whittier College grants and scholarships with federal grants, loans, work-study, and state aid.
Rankings and Reputation
Whittier College consistently receives recognition in various rankings:
- U.S. News & World Report 2024 Best Colleges rankings:
- No. 8 in “Top Performers on Social Mobility” (moving up 16 spots from the previous year), affirming its effectiveness in improving students’ economic mobility.
- Named one of the “top 100 liberal arts colleges” in the nation.
- Ranked No. 83 in “Best Value Schools” for national liberal arts colleges.
- Forbes 2023:
- #430 in Top Colleges
- #235 in Private Colleges
- #114 in Liberal Arts Universities
- #98 in The West
Whittier’s commitment to social mobility is particularly highlighted, given its status as a Hispanic and Minority Serving Institution with a substantial first-generation student population.
Notable Alumni
Whittier College boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields:
- Richard Nixon (’34): 37th President of the United States. He served as student body president, co-founded the Orthogonian Society, and was an accomplished debater during his time at Whittier.
- Fred D. Anderson (’66): Co-founder and managing director of Elevation Partners; former Executive Vice President and CFO for Apple, Inc.
- Andrea Barber: Actress known for her role as Kimmy Gibbler in Full House and Fuller House.
- Cassey Ho: Popular video blogger and fitness entrepreneur (Blogilates).
- Peter L. Harris (’65): Former CEO of the San Francisco 49ers and FAO Schwarz.
- Richard Foos (’71): Co-founder of Rhino Records, founder of Shout! Factory.
- Alma Martinez (’84): Stage, film, and television actress.
- Geoff Stults (’97) & George Stults: Actors known for their television work.
- Jessamyn West: Noted author.
- Jim Colborn (’68): Former Major League Baseball pitcher and coach.
- Russ Purnell (’70): Former NFL special teams coach.
- James Adomian (’01): Stand-up comedian, actor, and impressionist.
- Ila Borders: First female pitcher to start in a professional baseball game.
- Cheryl Boone Isaacs: Former President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
- William F. House: Surgeon who developed the cochlear implant.
Whittier College continues its legacy of fostering intellectual curiosity, promoting diversity, and preparing students for impactful careers and lives of purpose.
FAQs about Whittier College
What is Whittier College known for?
Whittier College is known for its personalized liberal arts education, strong commitment to diversity, and emphasis on social mobility. It also offers unique academic programs like the Whittier Scholars Program, which allows students to design their own majors.
Where is Whittier College located?
Whittier College is located in Whittier, California, a suburban city in Los Angeles County, nestled in the scenic La Puente Hills.
Is Whittier College a religious institution?
While Whittier College was founded with Quaker roots, it became secular in the 1940s. It still honors Quaker values such as community, inclusivity, and service.
What majors and programs does Whittier College offer?
Whittier offers 32 undergraduate majors in fields like business, biology, computer science, psychology, global studies, and more. It also has a Master’s in Education and pre-professional advising tracks.
What is the Whittier Scholars Program?
The Whittier Scholars Program (WSP) is a distinctive offering that allows students to create individualized majors and curricula based on their interests and career goals. WSP students are largely exempt from general education requirements.
How many students attend Whittier College?
As of Spring 2024, Whittier College has about 815 undergraduate and graduate students.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Whittier College?
The student-to-faculty ratio is 8:1, allowing for small class sizes and close mentorship.
How diverse is the student body at Whittier College?
Whittier College is recognized as a Hispanic Serving Institution, with 69% of students identifying as students of color and 30% coming from outside the U.S.
What are the admissions requirements at Whittier College?
Applicants generally need a high school transcript, GPA, recommendations, and an essay. SAT/ACT scores are optional but considered if submitted.
What is the acceptance rate at Whittier College?
The acceptance rate ranges between 72% and 86%, making it a somewhat selective institution.
What GPA do you need to get into Whittier College?
The middle 50% of admitted students have a weighted GPA between 3.73 and 4.0 from grades 9 to 11.
What is the cost of attending Whittier College?
For 2025–2625, tuition is $50,410, with additional fees, room, and board bringing the total estimated cost to around $66,821 per year before financial aid.
Does Whittier College offer financial aid?
Yes, over 85% of students receive financial aid. Aid packages can include scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study.
What scholarships does Whittier College offer?
All admitted students are automatically considered for the John Greenleaf Whittier Scholarship, a renewable award ranging from $20,000 to $36,000 per year.
What is the average net cost after aid?
The average out-of-pocket tuition cost per student is approximately $20,000 per year.
Does Whittier College have graduate programs?
Yes, Whittier currently offers a Master’s degree in Education.
What happened to Whittier Law School?
Whittier Law School, once located in Costa Mesa, closed in 2017.
What athletic division is Whittier College in?
Whittier competes in NCAA Division III as a member of the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC).
How many sports teams does Whittier College have?
The college has 18 varsity teams—8 men’s and 10 women’s sports.
Is campus housing available?
Yes, about 60% of students live on campus in traditional dorms or in special programs like Faculty Masters housing.
What student organizations are available at Whittier College?
Whittier has over 40 clubs and 10 student “societies,” which are its versions of fraternities and sororities.
What are some traditions or events at Whittier College?
Annual events include Spring Sing, the Mona Kai party, and Sportsfest—a three-day event featuring athletic and academic competitions.
Is Whittier College considered a good value?
Yes, it ranks among U.S. News’ “Best Value Schools” and is recognized for improving economic mobility for its students.
What rankings has Whittier College received?
Whittier is ranked No. 8 in “Top Performers on Social Mobility” and No. 83 in “Best Value Schools” among national liberal arts colleges by U.S. News in 2024.
What notable alumni graduated from Whittier College?
Alumni include President Richard Nixon, actress Andrea Barber, fitness entrepreneur Cassey Ho, and Cheryl Boone Isaacs, former Academy President.
Does Whittier College support first-generation students?
Yes, a significant portion of the student body are first-generation college students, and the college provides support through various academic and financial aid programs.
What is the college’s approach to writing education?
All freshmen are required to take a full year of writing courses to build strong communication skills early in their academic journey.
Does Whittier College have study abroad or off-campus programs?
Yes, the January Interim term is often used for off-campus study, including travel and specialized experiential learning.
What facilities does the campus offer?
The campus features a modern image processing facility and a vast collection of aerial photographs of Southern California.
How can I apply to Whittier College?
Applications can be submitted through the Common Application. Required materials typically include transcripts, recommendations, and a personal essay.
Does Whittier College accept international students?
Yes, about 30% of students come from outside the U.S., representing over 24 countries.
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