Westmont College

Westmont College, located in Santa Barbara, California, is a private Christian liberal arts institution founded in 1937. It is dedicated to fostering academic excellence, faith-based leadership, and global engagement. Westmont aims to cultivate thoughtful scholars, grateful servants, and faithful leaders for global engagement.

Academics

Westmont College embraces a liberal arts tradition, emphasizing critical thinking and preparing students for diverse careers and service. The college offers 26 undergraduate majors with a student-faculty ratio of 12 to 1 and an average class size of 18, ensuring personalized attention. Notable programs include Business/Managerial Economics, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, and Biology/Biological Sciences. Westmont also provides numerous off-campus programs, with over 60 percent of students participating in opportunities like the Europe semester, England Semester, Westmont in Mexico, and Westmont in the Middle East.

International Students

Westmont College is committed to supporting its growing community of international students, who represent 34 countries. International Student Services assists with cultural adjustment and maintaining F-1 visa status, and offers an early orientation program called "First Connections" to help new international students build community. While specific diversity statistics for international students are limited, nearly half of the student body reflects diverse backgrounds. English is the language of instruction, and proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS) is required for admission. Students can engage in intercultural organizations like the Global and International Student Association (GISA).

Campus & Location

Westmont's 111-acre campus is nestled in the hills of Montecito, just east of Santa Barbara, offering a serene and beautiful environment with ocean views and Mediterranean-style architecture. Santa Barbara itself is a vibrant city on the central California coast, known for its cultural events, artistic festivities, and outdoor activities like beaches and mountains. While the campus has a secluded feel, a shuttle service connects students to downtown Santa Barbara. On-campus housing includes six dorms and the Global Leadership Center, with some upper-class students living in off-campus apartments.

Career Outcomes

Westmont College demonstrates strong career outcomes, with 91% of the class of 2024 either employed, in graduate school, participating in service, or serving in the military within six months of graduation. Historically, this figure has been as high as 97%. The Career Resource Center provides extensive support, including internships (70% of students participate), career events, and connections with alumni. Westmont graduates have pursued careers in various industries, with healthcare, food service, and education being top fields. Alumni have also been accepted into leading graduate schools such as Stanford, Harvard, and Yale.