Whitman College
Source: http://www.whitman.edu
Archived: 2026-04-23 16:54
Whitman College
You’ll Matter Here
Welcome to Whitman
Grow. Think. Explore. Thrive.
Nestled at the foot of the Blue Mountains in Walla Walla, Washington, you’ll find a place like no other. Whitman College is a top-tier liberal arts school with accomplished and friendly faculty and passionate and curious students. Here, you can find endless support and opportunities in and outside the classroom—becoming your best self.
Visit Whitman
Newly Admitted Students
Whitman by the Numbers
10:1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
You’ll get to know your professors and they’ll get to know you—and support you along the way.
80
+
Majors & Programs
With more than 80 majors and programs, students have the freedom to explore interests, connect disciplines and chart their own academic path.
1:1
Student-to-Tree Ratio
Whitman is recognized as a Tree Campus USA—it’s just one sign of how we care for our environment—a place where lives are changed.
Majors & Programs
Our Perfect College Town
About Us
What Makes Whitman Remarkable
From the moment you arrive on our beautiful campus, you’ll belong to a community that challenges you, supports you and wants the best for you. You’ll matter here—and you’ll make a difference.
About Whitman
About Whitman
Academic Programs
View All Programs
Featured Majors
Environmental Studies
The natural world undeniably shapes and is shaped by humans. To understand and influence this interaction for the better, you need the intellectual and practical tools to study environmental issues from multiple points of view. The Environmental Studies majors at Whitman College brings science and the humanities together in a flexible, unique academic path that will give you the tools to make a difference as a global citizen.
Learn More
Learn More
Majors & Programs
Anthropology
Anthropology is unique in its goal of bridging the humanities, natural and social sciences, and in its long view of human time.
Art
Not all Art majors in college let students explore and experiment across different forms. But at Whitman, Art majors gain advanced skills in one concentration while making art in a variety of media.
Art History
In the Art History undergraduate program at Whitman College, you’ll learn from top-notch faculty to think creatively and critically about the art and architecture of diverse cultures throughout history.
Astronomy
As one of the only top liberal arts colleges with an Astronomy major, Whitman College is an ideal place to explore the nature of the universe in our Astronomy classes.
Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology
The one-of-a-kind Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology major at Whitman College prepares students to take their place in cutting-edge careers in genomics, biotechnology, biochemistry and structural biology.
Biology
As a Biology major at Whitman, you’ll study all forms of life, from the molecular to the ecological. You’ll do original research alongside amazing professors, and you’ll have lots of opportunities to put your knowledge to work outside the classroom.
Chemistry
Chemistry at Whitman combines a broad exposure to chemical principals with hands-on laboratory experiences using advanced instrumentation to explore the nature and composition of matter and the laws that govern chemical reactions. Students develop deep chemical intuition and the ability to apply these principles to solve a range of real-world problems.
Chinese
In the Chinese program at Whitman College, you’ll learn how to speak, read and write Mandarin Chinese while exploring ancient and contemporary Chinese culture.
Computer Science
As a Computer Science major at Whitman College, you will develop your computational skills through a dynamic course of study balanced with career-boosting activities in the close company of engaged faculty members and fellow students.
Engineering
Looking for a liberal arts college with Engineering? Whitman’s dual-degree program in Engineering combines the best parts of a liberal arts education with the technical training to launch your engineering career.
Economics
As a Whitman College economics major, expand your global perspective and sharpen your analysis and communication skills with caring, knowledgeable professors — all while gaining practical experience and a solid foundation for your career.
English
As an English major at Whitman, you can give your curiosity free rein in a close-knit community of supportive faculty and fellow students. You’ll think deeply about a world of ideas in beautiful literary forms while honing your own writing and analytical skills.
Environmental Studies
The Environmental Studies majors at Whitman College bring the sciences and humanities together in a unique academic path to inspire students to become global citizens.
Film & Media Studies
Learn the basics of film editing and production, while exploring the power of media from a uniquely global perspective with a Film and Media studies major at Whitman College.
French & Francophone Studies
At Whitman College, one of the best colleges for French majors in the Northwest, you’ll hone your language skills while discovering the fascinating impact of the French-speaking world on global literature, history and culture.
Geology
Study the impact of geological forces with a degree in Geology from Whitman College. Gain experience in the field and a variety of research opportunities, all while enjoying a close-knit campus and accessible faculty.
Gender Studies
The Gender Studies major at Whitman College explores how gender and sexuality shape our identities and institutions. Weaving together perspectives from a variety of different fields, Gender Studies can prepare you for a career on the cusp of social change.
German Studies
At Whitman, German Studies majors can explore the German-speaking world in wide-ranging courses that draw from literature, philosophy, politics and more.
Global Literatures
Courses in Global Literatures are designed to enable students to pursue their interests in literature beyond linguistic boundaries. Courses are taught by the members of the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures and the Department of Hispanic Studies, but all readings are in English, and classes are conducted in English.
Hispanic Studies
With a Hispanic Studies degree from Whitman College, you’ll learn the Spanish language as you deeply explore the rich variety of Hispanic cultures and get ready for a career in the global job market.
History
As a Whitman College History major, you’ll learn how to think critically about human history and develop an appreciation for its complexity so that you can take your place as an informed global citizen.
Japanese
As one of the only top liberal arts colleges to offer a major in Japanese, Whitman College is an ideal place to learn the language and gain a deeper understanding of Japanese literature and culture.
Latin American Studies
Study the language, literature, history, politics, economics, society and culture of Latin America. This fascinating minor offers rich insights into an influential area of the world stretching from Mexico to Chile.
Mathematics and Statistics
Students looking for liberal arts colleges with good Math & Statistics programs will feel right at home at Whitman College. Our Math major offers a vibrant academic environment, accessible faculty and wide-ranging research opportunities.
Music
At Whitman College, the Music major helps students unlock their full musical potential and develop a deep understanding and appreciation for the complexities of sound as an art form.
Philosophy
With a Philosophy degree from Whitman College, you’ll explore the answers to life’s great questions, build your critical-thinking skills and learn to tackle real-world problems at one of the best colleges for Philosophy.
Physics
Whitman College Physics majors explore the physical systems around us to advance our knowledge of the universe and solve everyday problems. See how Whitman can help prepare you for graduate school or careers in engineering, technology and more.
Politics
As a Politics major at Whitman College, you'll find a place to start making a difference in the world. Questions of power are central to the politics major. You'll grapple with differing perspectives on the most consequential, often controversial, issues of our times—and focus on real-world social change and community-based experiences to grow your knowledge, skills and networks.
Psychology
Whitman College's Psychology program offers amazing insights into human behavior. If you major in psychology, you'll take fascinating psychology courses, do hands-on projects, have wide-ranging exploratory discussions and do original research in one of Whitman's psychology labs.
Religion
The Religion program's objectives are to convey knowledge in Asian religions, modern Western religious thought, Near Eastern religion, and religion in America, and to develop students' analytical, interpretive and communication skills.
Rhetoric, Writing & Public Discourse
In Whitman’s Rhetoric, Writing & Public Discourse major, you’ll learn to write effectively, make persuasive arguments, speak confidently in public and understand how communication shapes our world.
Sociology
If you wonder about the relationships, systems and conflicts that shape our world, come pursue a bachelor’s degree in Sociology at Whitman College, where you’ll gain the tools to understand how your story intersects with bigger social forces.
South Asian & Middle Eastern Studies
Dive into the history, politics, literature, art and religions of South Asia and the Middle East. At Whitman College, the South Asian and Middle Eastern Studies major will allow you to make insightful connections between cultures.
Theater & Dance
Courses and theatrical productions are offered to provide the student with rigorous, demanding professional training and a cultural background with which to attain the highest standards in theater.
Law, Culture & the Humanities
How do societies and cultures shape the law? In the Law, Culture and the Humanities minor at Whitman College, you will explore the law through the lens of diverse academic fields to gain a unique, human-centered understanding of how the law impacts our lives.
Indigeneity, Race & Ethnicity Studies
In the Indigeneity, Race & Ethnicity Studies program at Whitman College, you’ll get the tools you need to understand the origins and effects of social inequality. Great faculty and a supportive environment help prepare you for a life of passionate commitment to change.
Global Studies Concentration
The Center for Global studies seeks to address historical and contemporary interconnections to enable Whitman students — future humanitarians, teachers, diplomats and business people — to interact effectively and meaningfully with people from all corners of the world.
Forestry & Environmental Management
Whitman College partners with Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment to offer coordinated pathways into the Master of Forestry or Master of Environmental Management. Students may enter after three years or upon graduating, completing Duke’s requirements to earn both the Whitman BA and a professional master’s degree.
Oceanography
Whitman College partners with the University of Washington’s School of Oceanography to offer a five-year pathway in biological or geological oceanography. Students complete three years at Whitman and two at UW, earning a Whitman BA and a UW BS in Oceanography.
Human-Centered Design
This concentration brings together diverse perspectives to help you understand how people interact with the designed world—and how to create solutions that put people first. It will supercharge your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Pre-Law
Law schools want students who can ask sharp questions, think critically and lead ethically. At Whitman, you’ll practice all of that from day one. Our liberal arts education isn’t just broad—it’s bold. You’ll learn to connect ideas across fields, tackle complex issues with insight and empathy, and communicate with clarity.
Resume, CVs and Cover Letters
Resources to help students craft strong resumes and cover letters, connect with career coaches and explore opportunities.
Student Highlight
“
Whitman encourages students to take risks with their learning. At Whitman, learning isn’t for the sake of passing a class but rather to critically challenge and understand the world around us.
”
WINTER 2026
Whitman Magazine
This issue highlights Whitties making an impact in their communities and around the world—from filmmakers to caregivers to coaches to entrepreneurs, Whitties shape the world in positive ways.
Read the Latest Issue
Read the Latest Issue
Whitman Stories
Charting a Path to Med School & Beyond at Whitman
Whitman College surrounds pre-med and pre-health students like Marika Cartier ’26 with a supportive system of personalized advising, immersive learning opportunities and peer support as they prepare to launch their health care careers.
Read the Story
Read the Story
More Stories
View All
Student Stories Come Alive at Whitman’s One-Act Play Festival
Whitman College’s One-Act Play Festival returns April 30–May 3, showcasing original student-written plays. This biennial tradition highlights collaboration, creativity and hands-on theater-making, giving students the opportunity to bring new work from script to stage.
April 23, 2026
Visiting Writers Reading Series Welcomes ‘Raised By Ferns’ Author Maya Jewell Zeller
Poet and essayist Maya Jewell Zeller will read from her new memoir and answer questions on April 23 at Whitman College. Zeller’s latest book explores growing up in the Pacific Northwest. This event is free and open to the public.
April 20, 2026
Come for the Disc, Stay for the People: Inside Whitman’s Ultimate Club Teams
Whitman’s Ultimate club teams—the Gender Diverse Sweets and Men’s Sweets—have built something rare: two programs where beginners and seasoned players seamlessly share the same field, fun traditions and competitive spirit.
April 17, 2026
View All
Take The Next Step
Our Admission team is excited to show prospective students all the opportunities that await them at Whitman—including top academics, career coaching and a caring community that truly wants them to thrive.
Visit
Apply Now
Not ready yet? Contact us to
request more information
.
You’ll Matter Here
Welcome to Whitman
Grow. Think. Explore. Thrive.
Nestled at the foot of the Blue Mountains in Walla Walla, Washington, you’ll find a place like no other. Whitman College is a top-tier liberal arts school with accomplished and friendly faculty and passionate and curious students. Here, you can find endless support and opportunities in and outside the classroom—becoming your best self.
Visit Whitman
Newly Admitted Students
Whitman by the Numbers
10:1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
You’ll get to know your professors and they’ll get to know you—and support you along the way.
80
+
Majors & Programs
With more than 80 majors and programs, students have the freedom to explore interests, connect disciplines and chart their own academic path.
1:1
Student-to-Tree Ratio
Whitman is recognized as a Tree Campus USA—it’s just one sign of how we care for our environment—a place where lives are changed.
Majors & Programs
Our Perfect College Town
About Us
What Makes Whitman Remarkable
From the moment you arrive on our beautiful campus, you’ll belong to a community that challenges you, supports you and wants the best for you. You’ll matter here—and you’ll make a difference.
About Whitman
About Whitman
Academic Programs
View All Programs
Featured Majors
Environmental Studies
The natural world undeniably shapes and is shaped by humans. To understand and influence this interaction for the better, you need the intellectual and practical tools to study environmental issues from multiple points of view. The Environmental Studies majors at Whitman College brings science and the humanities together in a flexible, unique academic path that will give you the tools to make a difference as a global citizen.
Learn More
Learn More
Majors & Programs
Anthropology
Anthropology is unique in its goal of bridging the humanities, natural and social sciences, and in its long view of human time.
Art
Not all Art majors in college let students explore and experiment across different forms. But at Whitman, Art majors gain advanced skills in one concentration while making art in a variety of media.
Art History
In the Art History undergraduate program at Whitman College, you’ll learn from top-notch faculty to think creatively and critically about the art and architecture of diverse cultures throughout history.
Astronomy
As one of the only top liberal arts colleges with an Astronomy major, Whitman College is an ideal place to explore the nature of the universe in our Astronomy classes.
Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology
The one-of-a-kind Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology major at Whitman College prepares students to take their place in cutting-edge careers in genomics, biotechnology, biochemistry and structural biology.
Biology
As a Biology major at Whitman, you’ll study all forms of life, from the molecular to the ecological. You’ll do original research alongside amazing professors, and you’ll have lots of opportunities to put your knowledge to work outside the classroom.
Chemistry
Chemistry at Whitman combines a broad exposure to chemical principals with hands-on laboratory experiences using advanced instrumentation to explore the nature and composition of matter and the laws that govern chemical reactions. Students develop deep chemical intuition and the ability to apply these principles to solve a range of real-world problems.
Chinese
In the Chinese program at Whitman College, you’ll learn how to speak, read and write Mandarin Chinese while exploring ancient and contemporary Chinese culture.
Computer Science
As a Computer Science major at Whitman College, you will develop your computational skills through a dynamic course of study balanced with career-boosting activities in the close company of engaged faculty members and fellow students.
Engineering
Looking for a liberal arts college with Engineering? Whitman’s dual-degree program in Engineering combines the best parts of a liberal arts education with the technical training to launch your engineering career.
Economics
As a Whitman College economics major, expand your global perspective and sharpen your analysis and communication skills with caring, knowledgeable professors — all while gaining practical experience and a solid foundation for your career.
English
As an English major at Whitman, you can give your curiosity free rein in a close-knit community of supportive faculty and fellow students. You’ll think deeply about a world of ideas in beautiful literary forms while honing your own writing and analytical skills.
Environmental Studies
The Environmental Studies majors at Whitman College bring the sciences and humanities together in a unique academic path to inspire students to become global citizens.
Film & Media Studies
Learn the basics of film editing and production, while exploring the power of media from a uniquely global perspective with a Film and Media studies major at Whitman College.
French & Francophone Studies
At Whitman College, one of the best colleges for French majors in the Northwest, you’ll hone your language skills while discovering the fascinating impact of the French-speaking world on global literature, history and culture.
Geology
Study the impact of geological forces with a degree in Geology from Whitman College. Gain experience in the field and a variety of research opportunities, all while enjoying a close-knit campus and accessible faculty.
Gender Studies
The Gender Studies major at Whitman College explores how gender and sexuality shape our identities and institutions. Weaving together perspectives from a variety of different fields, Gender Studies can prepare you for a career on the cusp of social change.
German Studies
At Whitman, German Studies majors can explore the German-speaking world in wide-ranging courses that draw from literature, philosophy, politics and more.
Global Literatures
Courses in Global Literatures are designed to enable students to pursue their interests in literature beyond linguistic boundaries. Courses are taught by the members of the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures and the Department of Hispanic Studies, but all readings are in English, and classes are conducted in English.
Hispanic Studies
With a Hispanic Studies degree from Whitman College, you’ll learn the Spanish language as you deeply explore the rich variety of Hispanic cultures and get ready for a career in the global job market.
History
As a Whitman College History major, you’ll learn how to think critically about human history and develop an appreciation for its complexity so that you can take your place as an informed global citizen.
Japanese
As one of the only top liberal arts colleges to offer a major in Japanese, Whitman College is an ideal place to learn the language and gain a deeper understanding of Japanese literature and culture.
Latin American Studies
Study the language, literature, history, politics, economics, society and culture of Latin America. This fascinating minor offers rich insights into an influential area of the world stretching from Mexico to Chile.
Mathematics and Statistics
Students looking for liberal arts colleges with good Math & Statistics programs will feel right at home at Whitman College. Our Math major offers a vibrant academic environment, accessible faculty and wide-ranging research opportunities.
Music
At Whitman College, the Music major helps students unlock their full musical potential and develop a deep understanding and appreciation for the complexities of sound as an art form.
Philosophy
With a Philosophy degree from Whitman College, you’ll explore the answers to life’s great questions, build your critical-thinking skills and learn to tackle real-world problems at one of the best colleges for Philosophy.
Physics
Whitman College Physics majors explore the physical systems around us to advance our knowledge of the universe and solve everyday problems. See how Whitman can help prepare you for graduate school or careers in engineering, technology and more.
Politics
As a Politics major at Whitman College, you'll find a place to start making a difference in the world. Questions of power are central to the politics major. You'll grapple with differing perspectives on the most consequential, often controversial, issues of our times—and focus on real-world social change and community-based experiences to grow your knowledge, skills and networks.
Psychology
Whitman College's Psychology program offers amazing insights into human behavior. If you major in psychology, you'll take fascinating psychology courses, do hands-on projects, have wide-ranging exploratory discussions and do original research in one of Whitman's psychology labs.
Religion
The Religion program's objectives are to convey knowledge in Asian religions, modern Western religious thought, Near Eastern religion, and religion in America, and to develop students' analytical, interpretive and communication skills.
Rhetoric, Writing & Public Discourse
In Whitman’s Rhetoric, Writing & Public Discourse major, you’ll learn to write effectively, make persuasive arguments, speak confidently in public and understand how communication shapes our world.
Sociology
If you wonder about the relationships, systems and conflicts that shape our world, come pursue a bachelor’s degree in Sociology at Whitman College, where you’ll gain the tools to understand how your story intersects with bigger social forces.
South Asian & Middle Eastern Studies
Dive into the history, politics, literature, art and religions of South Asia and the Middle East. At Whitman College, the South Asian and Middle Eastern Studies major will allow you to make insightful connections between cultures.
Theater & Dance
Courses and theatrical productions are offered to provide the student with rigorous, demanding professional training and a cultural background with which to attain the highest standards in theater.
Law, Culture & the Humanities
How do societies and cultures shape the law? In the Law, Culture and the Humanities minor at Whitman College, you will explore the law through the lens of diverse academic fields to gain a unique, human-centered understanding of how the law impacts our lives.
Indigeneity, Race & Ethnicity Studies
In the Indigeneity, Race & Ethnicity Studies program at Whitman College, you’ll get the tools you need to understand the origins and effects of social inequality. Great faculty and a supportive environment help prepare you for a life of passionate commitment to change.
Global Studies Concentration
The Center for Global studies seeks to address historical and contemporary interconnections to enable Whitman students — future humanitarians, teachers, diplomats and business people — to interact effectively and meaningfully with people from all corners of the world.
Forestry & Environmental Management
Whitman College partners with Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment to offer coordinated pathways into the Master of Forestry or Master of Environmental Management. Students may enter after three years or upon graduating, completing Duke’s requirements to earn both the Whitman BA and a professional master’s degree.
Oceanography
Whitman College partners with the University of Washington’s School of Oceanography to offer a five-year pathway in biological or geological oceanography. Students complete three years at Whitman and two at UW, earning a Whitman BA and a UW BS in Oceanography.
Human-Centered Design
This concentration brings together diverse perspectives to help you understand how people interact with the designed world—and how to create solutions that put people first. It will supercharge your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Pre-Law
Law schools want students who can ask sharp questions, think critically and lead ethically. At Whitman, you’ll practice all of that from day one. Our liberal arts education isn’t just broad—it’s bold. You’ll learn to connect ideas across fields, tackle complex issues with insight and empathy, and communicate with clarity.
Resume, CVs and Cover Letters
Resources to help students craft strong resumes and cover letters, connect with career coaches and explore opportunities.
Student Highlight
“
Whitman encourages students to take risks with their learning. At Whitman, learning isn’t for the sake of passing a class but rather to critically challenge and understand the world around us.
”
WINTER 2026
Whitman Magazine
This issue highlights Whitties making an impact in their communities and around the world—from filmmakers to caregivers to coaches to entrepreneurs, Whitties shape the world in positive ways.
Read the Latest Issue
Read the Latest Issue
Whitman Stories
Charting a Path to Med School & Beyond at Whitman
Whitman College surrounds pre-med and pre-health students like Marika Cartier ’26 with a supportive system of personalized advising, immersive learning opportunities and peer support as they prepare to launch their health care careers.
Read the Story
Read the Story
More Stories
View All
Student Stories Come Alive at Whitman’s One-Act Play Festival
Whitman College’s One-Act Play Festival returns April 30–May 3, showcasing original student-written plays. This biennial tradition highlights collaboration, creativity and hands-on theater-making, giving students the opportunity to bring new work from script to stage.
April 23, 2026
Visiting Writers Reading Series Welcomes ‘Raised By Ferns’ Author Maya Jewell Zeller
Poet and essayist Maya Jewell Zeller will read from her new memoir and answer questions on April 23 at Whitman College. Zeller’s latest book explores growing up in the Pacific Northwest. This event is free and open to the public.
April 20, 2026
Come for the Disc, Stay for the People: Inside Whitman’s Ultimate Club Teams
Whitman’s Ultimate club teams—the Gender Diverse Sweets and Men’s Sweets—have built something rare: two programs where beginners and seasoned players seamlessly share the same field, fun traditions and competitive spirit.
April 17, 2026
View All
Take The Next Step
Our Admission team is excited to show prospective students all the opportunities that await them at Whitman—including top academics, career coaching and a caring community that truly wants them to thrive.
Visit
Apply Now
Not ready yet? Contact us to
request more information
.