Whitman College is a private liberal arts college in Walla Walla, Washington, known for its strong science programs and vibrant outdoor recreation culture in the Pacific Northwest. The college fosters a collaborative intellectual community with small seminar-style classes and a required senior thesis or project. Whitman's scenic location near the Blue Mountains provides extensive opportunities for hiking, skiing, and environmental fieldwork.
Mascot: Blue
Notable Alumni
Adam West (actor, TV's Batman)•Walter Brattain (Nobel physicist, co-invented transistor)•William O. Douglas (longest-serving Supreme Court Justice)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2026-2027. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
# = approximate national ranking, based on departmental rankings, research output and program reputation. Offered = the college offers the major, but we don't rank it.
Highlights
Campus Experience
Whitman's Greek chapters (about 20% participation) operate differently from nationals — some have even adopted gender-inclusive language, reflecting the school's progressive bent. Social life in Walla Walla centers on the outdoors, house parties, and a surprisingly vibrant local wine scene. Students are passionate and driven without being competitive, and the tight-knit community means everyone genuinely knows each other.
Elegant brick and stone buildings in a collegiate Gothic and Arts & Crafts style set against the backdrop of the Blue Mountains in Walla Walla wine country. Lush grounds with Ankeny Field, mature trees, and mountain views create a beautiful Pacific Northwest setting.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
Whitman's on-campus incidents are overwhelmingly disciplinary in nature (91%), with very few violent crimes. Security provides 24/7 coverage on the compact campus.
Walla Walla is a small, quiet agricultural town with low crime rates and a friendly, close-knit community.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Monday-Saturday year-round; event visit days in summer and fall
Duration: About 60-90 minutes for the campus tour; additional sessions available
Visits are customizable: combine a student-led tour with an info session, admission officer meeting, class visit, specialty building tour, or a meal with a current student. Contact admission@whitman.edu or 877-462-9448.
Book a TourThe Outdoor Sculpture Walk is a free self-guided tour of 21 sculptures across campus, with downloadable maps from the Walla Walla tourism site. Campus is compact and easy to explore on foot.
Tour ResourcesLate spring (April-May) when Walla Walla's wine country blooms and campus is green, or early fall (September-October) during harvest season. Summers are warm and pleasant but campus is quiet. Avoid December-February when the Palouse gets cold and gray.
Free parking on campus -- no permit required. Park in any campus lot or on the street. Walla Walla Regional Airport (ALW) is a 10-minute drive; Valley Transit bus serves town (call 509-525-9140). Nearest major airport: Spokane (GEG, 4.5 hours) or Tri-Cities (PSC, 1 hour). A car is essential.
Location
Similar Colleges
Find the right college for you
Explore 170 colleges by degree, filter by acceptance rate, SAT range, and more.
Explore Colleges