Since its founding in 1887, Whittier College has been a place of academic innovation, where a community of learners pushes past constraints and "measured" ways of doing things, embracing the bold and the cutting edge.

Here, students and professors alike reach across academic dividing lines to discover the interconnectedness of ideas.

As a result, students gain an intellectual grounding that will serve them throughout their lives—as scholars, professionals, and responsible world citizens.

Whittier College is a four-year residential liberal arts college that pushes students to question the world around them and figure out their place in it. Located in the heart of Southern California between bustling Los Angeles and beautiful Orange County, Whittier is distinguished by its small size, pioneering faculty, and nationally recognized curriculum. Facilities rival those at large public institutions, but ours is an intimate setting where students and professors unite in an ongoing pursuit of knowledge.

Mission & Vision

Whittier College: Living and Learning in True Community
Our long academic tradition—grounded in the Quaker quest for knowledge and personal growth—aims to foster in students an appreciation for the complexities of the modern world and workplace while never losing sight of the importance of social responsibility. This is a place where students become actively involved in the local community as they explore their role in the global community, too.

Whittier's residential nature is a key component in defining who we are, as students and professors live and learn in close proximity to one another, fostering an atmosphere where knowledge can be pursued 24/7. This is a community where individuality is valued, tolerance is cherished, and the things that make each of us unique are seen as invaluable tools in seeking greater knowledge and understanding.

Mission Statement
Whittier College is a residential four-year liberal arts institution that prepares students from diverse backgrounds to excel in a complex global society. Through challenging, interactive courses, taught by accomplished professors, students learn to make connections across disciplines, understand cultural perspectives, and integrate learning with practical application. Inspired by a Quaker heritage, the Whittier education equips students to be active citizens and effective communicators who embrace diversity and act with integrity.