Whittier College
The Vibe Check
Whittier College offers a tight-knit, intimate campus community where students know each other by name and professors are accessible mentors. The vibe is collaborative and supportive, with a focus on leadership and personal growth. It feels like a place where you can carve out your own unique path in a warm, suburban setting.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1230
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 26
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Academic life is defined by small class sizes and a liberal arts core that encourages interdisciplinary study. The college excels in hands-on learning, with strong research opportunities in biology and partnerships with local organizations for social sciences. Professors are dedicated to undergraduate teaching, providing personalized attention and mentorship.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Whittier
Students enjoy a relaxed suburban lifestyle with access to local coffee shops, restaurants, and parks in Uptown Whittier. The campus is a short drive from diverse LA attractions, including beaches, museums, and concert venues. On campus, students participate in a variety of clubs, Greek life, and outdoor activities in the nearby hills.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($59,492):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is considered safe with its own campus safety department and well-lit pathways. The surrounding Whittier area is a quiet, residential suburb, though standard precautions are always recommended.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors.
- ✓ Strong sense of community and school spirit among students.
- ✓ Prime location offers a quiet campus with easy access to Los Angeles.
- ✓ Unique and distinguished alumni network, including a U.S. President.
Cons
- ✗ Retention rate is low, indicating some students may transfer.
- ✗ Tuition is high, though aid can significantly reduce the cost.
- ✗ The suburban setting may feel limiting for students seeking a bustling urban campus.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Whittier College is known for its intimate liberal arts education with a strong focus on student-faculty collaboration and leadership development. It is also famously the alma mater of President Richard Nixon and is recognized for its distinctive 'Whittier Scholars Program,' which allows students to design their own major.
No, Whittier College is not highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 85.38%. This suggests that a majority of applicants are offered admission, but a strong academic record and a well-rounded application are still important for consideration and potential merit aid.
Campus life is vibrant and close-knit, with a significant portion of students living on campus. Students can engage in over 100 clubs, NCAA Division III athletics, and a vibrant Greek life scene. The residential community fosters a strong sense of belonging, and the college’s proximity to Los Angeles provides ample off-campus entertainment options.
The value depends heavily on the net price after financial aid. For students who receive substantial aid, the cost can be comparable to a public university, making the personalized education and strong alumni network a worthwhile investment. Given the median 10-year earnings of $59,492, the degree can provide a solid ROI, especially in fields like business and social sciences.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 1,185
- In-State Tuition $49,864
- Zip Code 90601
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a high list price but a significantly lower average net price, the financial aid packages at Whittier can make it a more affordable option for many families. The 10-year median earnings of $59,492 are competitive for a liberal arts college, suggesting a solid return on investment. However, prospective students should carefully compare their net price to offers from public universities to assess the best value.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.