Overview
Whittier College was founded in 1887 by Quaker settlers in Whittier, California, and grew from a small academy into a four-year liberal arts institution. It is perhaps best known as the alma mater of the 37th U.S. President Richard Nixon, and it maintains a reputation for close faculty-student mentorship and a commitment to social justice and civic engagement. The college has evolved into one of the most ethnically diverse liberal arts colleges in the nation, holding federal designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Whittier, California |
| Founded | 1887 |
| Total students | 1,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 11:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 75% |
| Graduation rate | 62% |
| Average starting salary | $48,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $52,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $52,000 |
| Room & board | $14,500 |
| Average financial aid | $35,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 98% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 970-1180 |
| ACT range | 17-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.30 |
| Regular deadline | February 1 |
Top Programs
- Business Administration
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Biology
- English
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.