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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.

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Introducing the 10% Promise

We are proud to announce the launch of the Whitman 10% Promise, a one-of-a-kind financial aid guarantee that you will never pay more than 10% of your family’s income for tuition.

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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 & ProgramsOur Perfect College Town
Faculty member Pat Spencer teaching geology with a student
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

Academic Programs

Hiking view of a mountain

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.

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Majors & Programs

Looking at a city through a glass sphere held in a hand.

Anthropology

Anthropology is unique in its goal of bridging the humanities, natural and social sciences, and in its long view of human time.

Painting.

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.

Abstract painting.

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.

Stars.

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.

Students in a biology lab

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 student.

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.

Neuro pathways.

Brain, Behavior & Cognition

Thinking of majoring in neuroscience? Whitman’s Brain, Behavior and Cognition program combines the best of Biology and Psychology in one challenging and fascinating major.

Chemistry students working together.

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.

Great wall of China.

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.

Castle.

Classics & Classical Studies

The Classics and Classical Studies majors at Whitman College offer you an opportunity to study the ancient languages, literatures, histories, arts, cultures and thought of Greek and Roman antiquity in a supportive, close-knit program.

Computer Science students.

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.

Graph.

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.

Whitman pre-engineering 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.

Students talking in library.

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.

Whitman student in green pasture annotating in journal.

Environmental Humanities

The Environmental Humanities major at Whitman College offers a humanities-based, science-informed exploration of environmental issues in a time of climate change.

Mountains.

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.

Whitman College water bottle and an ethics text book,

Ethics & Society

In the Ethics and Society major at Whitman College, you can learn how to use philosophy to navigate complex moral issues, like climate change, criminal justice, biomedicine, animal rights, and racial and gender justice.

Film reel.

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.

Forrest.

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.

Building with French flags.

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.

Red and black and white images of someone stepping differently and focusing on the shadow.

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.

Students smiling.

General Studies Program

Discover new interests and make connections between diverse subjects through Whitman’s unique General Studies program.

Students in front of a valley.

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.

An open book with an older style font.

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.

Books.

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.

Whitman College student looking across Spain

Global Studies

There’s no limit to what you can do studying Global Studies at Whitman College. This concentration prioritizes a global perspective with an emphasis on language study, international experiences and interesting, varied courses.

Busy street.

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.

Old building.

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.

Image of two individuals hands working on a design.

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.

Fist raised in awareness from people in a gathering.

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.

Mountain

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.

Temple.

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.

A photo of Lady Justice, a robed figure that is blindfolded and holding a sword and scales, symbolizing fairness and the power to punish.

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.

Writing on dry-erase board.

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.

Student playing a cello.

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.

Turtle swimming.

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.

Student reading a philosophy book.

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 students in the lab.

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.

Student studying in the library

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.

A photo of a courthouse taken from below.

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.

A student wearing a lab coat and gloves looks into a microscope next to a computer monitor

Pre-Med & Health Professions Advising

Whitman College's pre-med and health professions advisors guide students pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, nursing, veterinary medicine, physician assistant, pharmacy, physical therapy, and public health. Any major. Personalized advising.

Graphic of head and brain.

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.

A stethoscope forms the shape of a heart around a small globe

Public Health

Weave together your interests in health, research and public policy in Whitman’s interdisciplinary Public Health concentration, which you can add to any major. This program will equip you with the skills to tackle the world’s most pressing public health challenges.

Candles.

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.

Student teacher talking.

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.

Social Justice

In Whitman College’s Social Justice concentration, you’ll explore how inequity takes root and unpack the forces that shape power and privilege. And you’ll connect theory to practice—with hands-on projects designed to bring about real-world change.

Crowd on street.

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.

Statues Buddha.

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.

Whitman Baseball cheering each other on.

Sports Studies Recreation and Athletics

Whitman students can enjoy top-notch athletic facilities, varsity and intramural sports, club teams, activity courses and an unrivaled Outdoor Program.

Actors perform in The Winter's Tale 2024

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.

Two students from Whitman College and the Washington State Penitentiary discuss ideas for a final project on forgiveness in families.

Whitman at the Penitentiary

In these one-of-a-kind, fascinating courses, Whitman College students and incarcerated students from the Washington State Penitentiary meet together to learn about criminal justice, art, literature, ethics, politics and more.
An aerial photo taken of Whitman’s campus with the Blue Mountains in the background.

Oct 17

You’re Invited

Fall for Whitman Day

You’ll have the opportunity to meet current students, check out student clubs, sample classes, connect with Admission Officers and learn about our robust scholarship and financial aid options!

Plus, you’ll get a sneak peek at living and dining at Whitman!

Register Now
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.

”
Tayva A.

Tayva A.,
Rhetoric, Writing & Public Discourse major
from Colorado Springs, Colorado

An issue of Whitman Magazine with a scuba diver on the cover sits on a wood bench
SPRING 2026

Whitman Magazine

Curiosity and care: two qualities that set Whitties apart, from their first steps on campus to the challenging and innovative careers they embrace after graduation. In this issue of Whitman Magazine, you’ll meet Whitties—studying and working in science, research, advocacy, health, technology and the arts—who are making our world and communities better.

Read the Latest Issue

Students playing sand volleyball, one setting the ball over the net.
Whitman Stories

This Summer at Whitman: It All Happened Here!

Walla Walla was home base for many Whitties this summer while they gained new skills, made a difference in the community, researched on campus and, yes, even enjoyed a surprise visit from Jelly Roll!

Read the Story

More Stories

Jordan Wirfs-Brock and Alice Chan ’27 sit inside a projection of colors and text on a floor

The Human Link: Computer Science for Today’s Complex World

By pairing technical innovation with human creativity and empathy, Whitman College’s Computer Science program is encouraging today’s students to explore and invent what’s next.
October 07, 2026

Portrait of Sol Tran in front of a blooming tree

Student Spotlight: Sol Tran ’27 Puts Finance to Work for the Global Good

Can studying Economics and Math make the world a better place? Sol Tran ’27 thinks so—and she’s exploring the possibilities from Walla Walla to Nepal to Washington, D.C.
October 02, 2026

15 students stand on the field at T-Mobile Park in Seattle

More Than an Internship: Inside Whitman’s Inaugural Summer in Seattle

Whitman College’s first Summer in Seattle internship cohort spent an amazing 11 weeks doing research, gaining professional experience, exploring careers, building relationships and getting ready for their future careers.
September 25, 2026
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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.

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