Whittier College

Whittier College is a private liberal arts college located in Whittier, California, United States. It was founded in 1887 by members of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) and named after the poet and abolitionist John Greenleaf Whittier. Although the college is no longer formally affiliated with the Quaker church, it continues to uphold values such as respect for individuals, community engagement, social responsibility, and diversity. The college offers a broad undergraduate curriculum with more than 30 majors and multiple minor programs across disciplines including arts, sciences, business, education, and social sciences. It also supports customized interdisciplinary programs and study‑abroad opportunities aimed at preparing students for global citizenship and real‑world careers. Whittier’s campus fosters a close‑knit residential community with small class sizes, personalized mentorship from faculty, and active student life including clubs, athletics, and community service. The college’s athletic teams, known as the Poets, compete in NCAA Division III. Overall, Whittier College emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, practical experience, and cultural understanding, making it a distinctive choice among liberal arts institutions in the U.S.