Welcome back. Keep your shortlist and get deadline reminders with a free account.

Whittier College emblem

Whittier College

Whittier, United States • Founded 1887

Updated Jun 2026 · Source: whittier.edu

Overview

English Name: Whittier College
Acronyms: WC
Founded: 1887
Institution Type: College
Control Type: Private
Entity Type: Non-profit
Motto: Lux, Poesis, Veritas, Pax, Amor Eruditionis
Colours: Purple and gold
Mascot: Johnny Poet
Whittier College emblem

Established in 1887, the Whittier College is a non-profit private liberal arts higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the small city of Whittier (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), California.

Officially accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, Whittier College (WC) is a very small-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Whittier College (WC) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

This 137-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.

International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.

WC also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Whittier College's physical location and contact details are listed below.

Address: 13406 E Philadelphia Street
Postal Code: 90602
Phone: +1 (562) 907 4200
Fax: +1 (562) 698 4067
Social Media:

Academic Details

A snapshot of Whittier College's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and recognition.

Recognition: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Total Students: 764
Academic Staff Range: 100-199
Campus Setting: Suburban
Memberships & Networks
Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Programs Offered

Every programme Whittier College currently runs, grouped by degree level and searchable.

34 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

Bachelor's Degree 31 programmes

Bachelor's Degree in Anthropology
Social & Cultural Studies
Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Biochemistry
Bachelor's Degree in Biology, General
Biological Sciences
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations
Business Administration
Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry
Chemistry
Bachelor's Degree in Design and Applied Arts
Applied Design
Bachelor's Degree in Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Performing Arts
Bachelor's Degree in East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
Linguistics & Language Studies
Bachelor's Degree in Economics
Economics
Bachelor's Degree in Education, General
Education & Teaching

Showing 10 of 31.

Master's Degree 1 programme

Master's Degree in Education, General
Education & Teaching

Professional Doctorate 1 programme

Professional Doctorate in Law
Law

Postgraduate Certificate 1 programme

Postgraduate Certificate in Education, General
Education & Teaching

How to apply to Whittier College

How to apply to Whittier College — a five-step structure.

  1. 1
    Identify the right programme

    Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. Whittier College runs 34 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.

  2. 2
    Check entry requirements

    Before applying to Whittier College, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for United States.

  3. 3
    Prepare your application documents

    Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with Whittier College's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.

  4. 4
    Submit via the institution

    Lodge your application through the official website (www.whittier.edu). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.

  5. 5
    Get in touch with admissions

    Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (562) 907 4200. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions about Whittier College

Frequently asked questions about Whittier College.

When did Whittier College open?

Whittier College traces its founding to 1887 (approximately 139 years ago).

In which city is Whittier College?

Whittier College is based in Whittier, United States.

What is Whittier College's control type?

Whittier College operates as a private institution.

How many students study at Whittier College?

Whittier College has approximately 764 students.

Is Whittier College officially recognised?

Whittier College is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.

What is Whittier College's official website?

The institution's website is www.whittier.edu.

Top-Ranked Universities in the United States

Faculty awards and national-leader status concentrate at the top the United States universities. Whittier College's faculty distinctions compared to leaders signal where the institution sits in academic networks.

Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Other members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) are listed below.

Faculties at nearby universities

The institutions below are geographically close to Whittier College.

Where Else to Study Social & Cultural Studies

Universities in the United States with Social & Cultural Studies programmes appear below, alongside Whittier College.

Universities Compared with Whittier College

The institutions below are of a similar academic scale to Whittier College.

Browse all articles →

Spotted something outdated or missing?

Help us keep this page accurate — it takes about 30 seconds.

Save this university to your shortlist

Save universities and programs, follow countries, and get deadline reminders by email. Free, takes a few seconds.

Explore More Universities in United States

Free calculators and converters to plan your study-abroad journey.

Latest Articles

Fresh guides and advice for studying abroad.

View all →

Compare Compare