Whittier College

With a negative ROI score and median earnings that may not significantly outpace debt, prospective students should carefully consider the financial implications before enrolling at Whittier College.

Whittier College has a graduation rate of 61.7%.

Whittier College has an admission rate of 80.8%, indicating a less selective admissions process.

The median earnings for Whittier College graduates 10 years after entry are $59,492.

Whittier College has an affordability score of 35 and a high tuition of $51,350, suggesting it may not be affordable for many students without substantial financial aid.

Whittier College has a relatively high admission rate of 80.8%, indicating that it is not highly selective. This means that while academic merit is considered, the college aims to provide access to a broader pool of students compared to more competitive liberal arts institutions. To increase your chances of admission, focus on presenting a strong overall application. This includes maintaining a solid GPA, demonstrating engagement in extracurricular activities that showcase leadership and passion, and submitting thoughtful essays that highlight your personality and aspirations. Strong letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors who know you well can also significantly bolster your application. While the acceptance rate is high, a well-crafted application that clearly articulates why Whittier is the right fit for you will always stand out. It's advisable to check the specific GPA ranges and standardized test score averages (if applicable) for admitted students in recent years to gauge the academic profile of the incoming class.

Evaluating Whittier College's worth involves a direct cost-benefit analysis. The annual tuition is $51,350, and the median debt for graduates is $24,937. The median 10-year earnings post-graduation are $59,492. This creates a scenario where earnings are only marginally higher than the national average for all college graduates, and the tuition cost is substantial. The ROI score of -71 is a significant red flag, suggesting that, on average, graduates do not see a strong financial return on their investment in the short to medium term. To pay off the median debt of $24,937, assuming a graduate dedicates a significant portion of their income above living expenses, it could take several years. If we consider the total cost of a four-year degree (roughly $205,400 in tuition alone), the median earnings of $59,492 per year present a long road to financial recovery. While the liberal arts education offers intangible benefits, the financial metrics suggest Whittier College is overpriced for the average student seeking a strong financial return on their educational investment.

Whittier College, as a liberal arts institution, offers a broad range of majors designed to foster critical thinking and diverse skill sets. While specific 'best' majors can be subjective and depend on individual career goals, programs that leverage the college's strengths and its Southern California location often lead to strong outcomes. Majors within the humanities and social sciences, such as Political Science, English, Sociology, and Psychology, can prepare students for graduate studies or careers in fields like law, education, social work, and non-profit management. Given the proximity to the entertainment industry, majors like Whittier's Theatre or Communications programs could be advantageous for students aiming for careers in media and the arts, provided they actively pursue internships and networking opportunities. Business Administration and Economics are also solid choices, preparing graduates for roles in finance, marketing, and management within the vast Los Angeles business landscape. Students interested in STEM might find programs like Biology or Chemistry beneficial for entry-level lab positions or further graduate study in health sciences, though Whittier may not have the extensive research infrastructure of larger research universities.

Student life at Whittier College is characterized by its small size, fostering a close-knit and engaged campus community. With only 764 students, interactions tend to be more personal, allowing for strong relationships with peers and faculty. The college emphasizes a liberal arts experience, encouraging intellectual curiosity and participation in a variety of extracurricular activities. Campus traditions play a significant role in the student experience, creating a unique sense of belonging. Students can get involved in numerous clubs and organizations, covering academic interests, cultural groups, arts, athletics (NCAA Division III), and community service. The residential experience is central, with most students living on campus, contributing to a vibrant social scene. Located in a suburban setting, students also have access to the broader Los Angeles area for off-campus activities, entertainment, and internships. The overall atmosphere is often described as friendly, supportive, and academically focused, with opportunities for both intellectual exploration and social engagement within a relatively intimate environment.

Whittier College is committed to making its education accessible through various forms of financial aid. A significant portion of students receive financial assistance, with data often showing that over 80% of students benefit from some form of aid. This aid typically comprises a mix of merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement and other talents, and need-based grants, which are determined by a student's financial circumstances as assessed through the FAFSA and CSS Profile. The average financial aid package can be substantial, helping to offset the sticker price of tuition, room, and board. It's crucial for prospective students to complete the financial aid applications accurately and by the deadlines to be considered for the maximum possible aid. While Whittier aims to provide aid, the net price after aid is what truly matters for affordability. Students should carefully review their individual award letters to understand the breakdown of grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study, and consider how this package impacts their overall cost and potential debt.

The median salary for Whittier College graduates 10 years after starting their studies is $59,492. This figure represents a national average and can vary significantly based on the student's chosen major, academic performance, internships secured, and the specific industry and geographic location of employment. Graduates pursuing careers in high-demand fields within the Los Angeles area, such as technology or specialized finance roles, may exceed this median. Conversely, those entering fields with lower earning potential or working in less lucrative sectors might fall below it. For instance, a graduate in a competitive media role might start lower but see rapid growth, while a social worker might have a more modest but stable income. It's important to note that this median is for 10 years out, suggesting that initial salaries might be lower. Students should research average starting salaries for their intended majors and compare them against the cost of attendance and potential debt to make an informed decision about the financial return on their education.

Whittier College provides a range of on-campus housing options designed to support its residential learning community. Most students live in college-owned residence halls, which are typically organized by class year or specific living-learning communities. The dorms vary in style, from traditional double rooms to suites and apartment-style living for upperclassmen. Amenities often include common areas for studying and socializing, laundry facilities, and basic furnishings. The college emphasizes creating a safe and supportive living environment, with Resident Advisors (RAs) available to assist students. While specific details about room sizes, furnishings, and common area features can be found on the college's housing website, the overall impression is one of a traditional, comfortable college living experience. For students seeking more independence, off-campus housing options become available, particularly for juniors and seniors, though many choose to remain on campus due to the convenience and community.

Whittier College, as a liberal arts institution, offers research opportunities, but they differ in scale and scope from those at large research universities. The focus is typically on undergraduate research, where students can engage in faculty-mentored projects, often culminating in presentations at academic conferences or senior theses. Departments like Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, and Sociology often provide avenues for students to participate in research, assisting professors with ongoing studies or developing their own independent projects. These opportunities are valuable for students intending to pursue graduate studies, as they provide hands-on experience in scholarly inquiry and methodology. However, Whittier may not have the extensive laboratory facilities, large-scale research grants, or the sheer volume of research output characteristic of major R1 universities. Students seeking cutting-edge, large-scale research experiences might find more opportunities elsewhere, but for those valuing close faculty mentorship and the chance to conduct meaningful undergraduate research, Whittier can be a supportive environment.

Whittier College is often compared to other small, private liberal arts colleges in Southern California and beyond. Realistic peers include Occidental College, Loyola Marymount University (though LMU is larger and more comprehensive), University of Redlands, and potentially some Claremont Colleges schools like Scripps College for women. Whittier's key differentiator is its relatively accessible admission rate compared to some highly selective peers. Its primary advantage lies in its strong alumni network within the Los Angeles area, offering significant networking and internship opportunities. However, compared to some of these peers, Whittier's median earnings and ROI score are notably lower, suggesting a less favorable financial return on investment. Its graduation rate is also lower than many comparable institutions, which could indicate challenges in student retention or academic support for some. While it offers a personalized liberal arts education, it may lack the national brand recognition and extensive resources of some of its more established or larger competitors.

Employer perception of a degree from Whittier College is generally positive within the Southern California region, largely due to its established alumni network and the reputation of a liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. Employers in the Los Angeles area are familiar with Whittier graduates and often value their adaptability and well-roundedness. Companies in sectors like media, entertainment, non-profits, and local government frequently hire Whittier alumni. However, outside of its regional stronghold, the brand recognition of Whittier College is less pronounced compared to larger, more nationally recognized universities. While employers respect the skills gained, the specific name 'Whittier College' might not carry the same immediate weight as a degree from a top-tier national university. The success of graduates often depends heavily on their individual achievements, internships, and the strength of their professional network, rather than solely on the perceived prestige of the institution's name.