Whittier College Overview

Whittier College is a four-year, full-time, selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Whittier, CA. It has an enrollment of 1,321 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 82.49%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $19,774. Tuition is $49,514.00 without financial aid.

Whittier College is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Whittier College, 82.01% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Whittier College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1.

Whittier College Website

Whittier College Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 82.49%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1232.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 26.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Whittier College Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $19,774.

The average tuition is:

• $14,301, when family income is less than $30,000

• $13,280, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $15,584, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $20,979, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $27,874, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 66.95% of students received a federal student loan and 35.57% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $49,514.00 without financial aid.

Whittier College Net Price Calculator

Whittier College Majors/Salaries

Whittier College has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Whittier College here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Education, General. (Master’s Degree) – $67,324
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,765
• Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $18,315
• Law. (First Professional Degree) – $41,689
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $15,552
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $14,935
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $16,015
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,508
• Social Work. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,281
• Social Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,715
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,309
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,914

Whittier College Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Whittier College

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.23%
• Asian: 5.68%
• Black: 4.16%
• Hispanic: 41.86%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.45%
• Non-resident alien: 6.59%
• Two or more races: 4.24%
• Unknown: 16.35%
• White: 20.44%

At Whittier College, 3.92% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Whittier College Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Whittier College?

Whittier College has a strong sense of school spirit. Students and alumni are known to be passionate about their school, and many take part in traditions like the annual Homecoming celebration. The Whittier Poets athletics teams also have a loyal fan base that cheers them on at games and matches throughout the year. The sense of community at Whittier College is fostered by events like music performances, cultural showcases, and community service projects that bring students, faculty, and staff together. Overall, Whittier College has a tight-knit community where school spirit is strong and celebrated.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Whittier College?

Whittier College offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students. Some popular extracurriculars at Whittier College include: 1. Athletics: Whittier College has a strong athletics program, with opportunities to participate in sports such as basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, and swimming. 2. Student Organizations: Whittier College has over 70 student organizations, including academic and professional groups, cultural clubs, religious groups, and more. 3. Community Service: Whittier College encourages students to give back to the community through volunteering and service projects. 4. Performing Arts: Whittier College has a vibrant performing arts community, with opportunities to participate in theater productions, musical ensembles, and dance groups. 5. Outdoor Adventures: Whittier College offers a variety of outdoor adventure activities, including hiking, camping, rock climbing, and kayaking, through its Outdoor Adventure Program.

How are the food choices at Whittier College?

Whittier College offers a variety of food choices for its students. The primary dining facility on campus is the Campus Inn, which offers a range of options including a salad bar, grilled items, vegetarian options, and daily specials. There is also a coffee shop and convenience store on campus for quick snacks and coffee. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes within walking distance of campus in the nearby city of Whittier. Overall, students at Whittier College have ample options for dining both on and off campus.

Is there Greek life at Whittier College?

Yes, Whittier College has a vibrant Greek Life. There are six national fraternities and sororities on campus: Alpha Pi Sigma, Alpha Sigma Alpha, Delta Phi Epsilon, Lambda Sigma Gamma, Omega Phi Beta, and Phi Delta Theta. These organizations provide opportunities for social activities, leadership development, community service, and personal growth. The Greek Life at Whittier College is committed to maintaining a positive and inclusive environment that fosters academic excellence, philanthropy, and lifelong friendships.

What is Whittier College known for?

Whittier College is a private liberal arts college situated in Whittier, California. It is well known for its commitment to academic excellence and diversity. It offers more than 30 majors in varying fields of study including Biology, Business, Chemistry, English, Environmental Science, Theater and Communication Arts, among others. The college places a strong emphasis on experiential learning and offers a range of opportunities for students to engage with the local community through internships, research projects, and community service. Whittier College also has a strong athletics program and is a member of the NCAA Division III Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

What are the most popular school clubs at Whittier College?

Whittier College has a diverse range of clubs and organizations catering to different interests, but some of the most popular ones include the Black Student Union, Alpha Pi Sigma sorority, Latinos Unidos, the Whittier College Dance Team, and the Student Government Association. Additionally, there are clubs dedicated to academic pursuits, such as the Biology Club, Chemistry Club, Psychology Club, and Mathematics Club. There are also opportunities to participate in service and activism through organizations like the Whittier Scholars Program and the Center for Engagement with Communities.

Is the campus at Whittier College safe?

Whittier College is located in a safe residential neighborhood, and according to the College’s Annual Security Report, the campus has had a low crime rate in recent years with no cases of violent crimes reported. Additionally, the campus has 24-hour security, emergency phones placed throughout the campus, and a robust emergency notification system to ensure the safety of all students, faculty, and staff.