Whittier College
Think Critically. Live Inclusively. Lead Boldly.
📍 Whittier, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #75 in United States
Quick Facts about Whittier College
- Type: Private
- Students: 797
- International: 30%
- Campus: Suburban
- Tuition: $51,917 – $51,917/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
- Intakes: January, August, June
About Whittier College
Academics
Whittier College offers over 30 undergraduate majors and 30 minors, alongside a graduate program in education. Notable programs include Business Administration, Biology, Psychology, and Kinesiology. The college is known for its interdisciplinary approach, with the Whittier Scholars Program allowing students to design customized majors tailored to their interests and career goals. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, students benefit from close interaction with professors, many of whom hold PhDs or terminal degrees in their fields.
International Students
Whittier College actively supports its international student community, which constitutes a significant portion of its diverse student body, with some sources indicating up to 22% international students. The Office of International Programs (OIP) provides crucial services, including assistance with F-1 visa applications, orientation programs, financial and personal matters, health insurance, and on-campus employment. While specific English-taught programs are not separately listed, as an American institution, all courses are taught in English. International applicants are considered for merit-based scholarships.
Campus & Location
The 74-acre Whittier College campus is situated in Whittier, California, strategically located between Los Angeles and Orange County. This suburban setting offers a blend of a close-knit campus atmosphere with easy access to the vibrant cultural and entertainment opportunities of Southern California, including beaches, hiking, and major cities like Los Angeles. The campus itself features a mix of Mediterranean and modern architectural styles, with on-campus housing available.
Career Outcomes
Whittier College's Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) offers comprehensive services to prepare students for their careers or graduate studies. These services include personal coaching, career exploration, job readiness, graduate school preparation, and networking opportunities with employers and alumni. Graduates, on average, earn about $38,000 in their early careers, with those in Business Administration, Management, and Political Science often reporting higher earnings. Many graduates pursue advanced degrees or secure positions in diverse sectors such as consulting, corporate, banking, healthcare, and government agencies.
Information for International Students at Whittier College
Whittier College in Whittier, United States welcomes international students, with 30% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 30% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available (~$1450/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Whittier College
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Whittier College:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- Duolingo minimum: 105
- GPA minimum: 2.8
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: Regular Decision: February 1, Early Action: November 15
Programs at Whittier College (19 programs)
Whittier College offers 19 programs across Bachelor levels.
Bachelor Programs (19)
- Art (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Art program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of artistic principles, techniques, and historical contexts, fostering creative expression and critical thinking through various mediums.
Field: Visual Arts
Career outcomes: Artist, Art Educator, Gallery Assistant, Graphic Designer, Museum Curator - Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Business Administration program equips students with essential business knowledge and skills in areas like management, marketing, finance, and economics, preparing them for leadership roles in diverse industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Financial Analyst, Human Resources Manager, Entrepreneur - Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM
The Biology program offers a rigorous curriculum covering fundamental biological concepts, from molecular to ecological levels, preparing students for careers in research, healthcare, and environmental science.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Scientist, Healthcare Professional, Environmental Consultant, Biotechnology Specialist - Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM
The Computer Science program focuses on theoretical and practical aspects of computing, including programming, algorithms, data structures, and software development, preparing students for the rapidly evolving tech industry.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, Network Engineer, IT Consultant - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Psychology program explores human behavior and mental processes, providing a scientific understanding of the mind and preparing students for careers in counseling, research, and various human services.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist, Social Worker, Therapist - Philosophy (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Philosophy program engages students in critical inquiry into fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language, developing rigorous analytical and argumentative skills.
Field: Philosophy
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Educator, Journalist, Policy Analyst, Consultant - Whittier Scholars Program (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Whittier Scholars Program is an interdisciplinary, self-designed major that allows highly motivated students to create their own course of study, fostering intellectual curiosity and independent research.
Field: Interdisciplinary Studies
Career outcomes: Researcher, Consultant, Entrepreneur, Graduate Studies, Policy Analyst - Mathematics (BS) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM
The Mathematics program develops strong analytical and problem-solving skills through the study of pure and applied mathematics, preparing students for diverse fields requiring quantitative expertise.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary, Data Analyst, Educator - Chemistry (BS) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM
The Chemistry program provides a strong foundation in chemical principles, laboratory techniques, and scientific inquiry, preparing students for careers in chemical industries, research, and advanced studies.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Scientist, Quality Control Specialist, Forensic Scientist, Pharmaceutical Scientist - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Political Science program examines political systems, theories, and behaviors, developing students' analytical and critical thinking skills for careers in government, law, and public service.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager, Diplomat, Lawyer - Environmental Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM
The Environmental Science program integrates biology, chemistry, and geology to address complex environmental issues, preparing students for careers in conservation, sustainability, and environmental policy.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Sustainability Consultant, Environmental Educator, Policy Analyst - Religious Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Religious Studies program explores diverse religious traditions, beliefs, and practices across cultures and historical periods, fostering critical understanding of their impact on individuals and societies.
Field: Religious Studies
Career outcomes: Educator, Non-profit Manager, Counselor, Journalist, Community Organizer - History (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The History program explores past events, societies, and cultures, developing students' research, analytical, and interpretive skills essential for understanding the present and shaping the future.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Professional, Educator, Policy Analyst - Music (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Music program offers comprehensive training in music theory, history, performance, and composition, fostering artistic expression and critical understanding of diverse musical traditions.
Field: Music
Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer, Sound Engineer, Arts Administrator - Kinesiology (BS) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM
The Kinesiology program examines human movement, exercise science, and health, preparing students for careers in physical therapy, athletic training, sports management, and public health.
Field: Kinesiology
Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Fitness Professional, Sports Coach, Public Health Specialist - Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Sociology program examines social structures, interactions, and cultural phenomena, fostering critical analysis of societal issues and preparing students for careers in social justice, research, and community development.
Field: Sociology
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Researcher, Policy Analyst, Human Services Professional - Theatre (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Theatre program offers comprehensive training in acting, directing, design, and dramatic literature, fostering creative expression and critical understanding of theatrical arts.
Field: Theatre Arts
Career outcomes: Actor, Director, Stage Manager, Set Designer, Theatre Educator - Global Cultural Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Global Cultural Studies program examines diverse cultures, societies, and global issues through an interdisciplinary lens, fostering cross-cultural understanding and critical analysis of global challenges.
Field: Interdisciplinary Studies
Career outcomes: International Relations Specialist, Cultural Consultant, Non-profit Manager, Journalist, Educator - Spanish (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr
The Spanish program develops proficiency in the Spanish language and provides a deep understanding of Hispanic cultures, literatures, and histories, preparing students for global careers and cross-cultural communication.
Field: Spanish Language and Literature
Career outcomes: Translator, Interpreter, Educator, International Business Professional, Diplomat
Scholarships & Tuition at Whittier College
Annual tuition for international students: $51,917 – $51,917/year
✅ Whittier College offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Whittier College
- National Ranking: #75 in United States
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Low
Campus & Facilities at Whittier College
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Suburban
- Average class size: 11
- Housing cost: ~$1450/month
Key Highlights
- Liberal arts, personalized learning
- Diverse student body
- Customized majors available
- SoCal location, LA access
- Support for international students
Accreditation
- WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Notable Alumni
- Richard Nixon
- Andrea Barber
- Dean Devlin
- Fred Anderson
- James Adomian
Frequently Asked Questions about Whittier College
What is Whittier College?
Whittier College is a private university located in Whittier, United States. It has approximately 797 students, with 30% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Whittier College?
Tuition fees at Whittier College for international students range from $51,917 – $51,917/year. Student housing costs approximately $1450/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Whittier College?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 80. Duolingo minimum: 105. GPA minimum: 2.8. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: Regular Decision: February 1, Early Action: November 15.
What language are courses taught in at Whittier College?
Courses at Whittier College are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does Whittier College offer?
Whittier College offers 19 programs: 19 Bachelor's, 0 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Whittier College ranked?
#75 in United States.
Does Whittier College offer scholarships?
Yes, Whittier College offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Whittier College provide visa support?
Yes, Whittier College provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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