Whitman College
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Whitman College - Academics - Academics - College ProwlerCollege Prowler4.24

Academics

Quick Stats

Student-Faculty Ratio 10:1
Full-Time Student Population 1,483
Part-Time Student Population 32
Full-Time Instructional Faculty 140
Part-Time Instructional Faculty 63
Total FT Faculty 151
Faculty with Terminal Degree 94%
Average Faculty Salary $74,066
Full-Time Retention Rate 92%
Graduation Rate 86%
Programs/Majors Offered 42
Average Course Load 16 credits
Academic/Career Counseling? Yes
Remedial Services? No
Class Sizes
  • Fewer than 20 Students: 73%
  • 20 to 49 Students: 26%
  • 50 or More Students: 1%

Student Author OverviewWhat's This?

Whitman encourages the exploration of academic diversity through its distribution requirements, according to students. These allow students to explore interests and discover new ones, consequentially finding their focus. The distribution categories allow for an eclectic mix by requiring the following: six credits in “alternative voices,” six credits in the social sciences, six credits in the humanities, six credits in the fine arts, six credits in the sciences, one lab credit, one quantitative analysis course, and Encounters, the full-year core course required for all first-years. Encounters could be best described as a blend of literature, politics, and philosophy.

Experiences can depend, of course, on what your personal interests are and what classes you take, but most students find their courses interesting and engaging, primarily because of their professors. Across the board, Whitman students name their professors as the greatest strength of Whitman academics and applaud them for their passion, knowledge, and care for the individuals in their classes. Professors are insanely intelligent, too, and 98 percent of tenure track faculty holds a PhD or other appropriate terminal degree in their field. Students consider Whitman to be a comfortable environment in which to discuss all facets of academia, and they generally find their professors to be approachable both in and out of the classroom. The faculty makes a genuine effort to get to know the students, although the small student-faculty ratio (10:1) probably makes it easier to learn names. It’s never uncommon for students to dine in professors’ homes, to watch course-related films together, or to just socialize with other students in their department.
 

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Whitman Student ReviewsWhat's This?

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Academics at Whitman College

Shammy11

English '13

4.6
A

English Is BOMB

The English department has one of the strongest sets of profs. They will challenge you and work with you so you succeed.

Apr 30, 2012

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Academics at Whitman College

Shammy11

English '13

4.6
A

Figure Out Who the Great Prof's Are

...and you'll be set. Great profs who you can establish ongoing relationships will teach you so much, and help you get as much out of your major as you possibly can.

Apr 30, 2012

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Academics at Whitman College

Dyerkm

English '13

4.2
A-

Academics Are GREAT, Registration Can Be a Pain

Put simply, the academics at Whitman are absolutely phenomenal. Whitman first came to my attention largely because of its reputation for academic excellence, a reputation which, after three years here, I believe is well deserved. Although I came largely for the English Major (the English department is nothing short of spectacular), my experiences with other departments have been equally as amazing. Professors are always willing to get to know you on a one-on-one basis, and are always there to provide extra help if you need it in a difficult class. In addition to that, Whitman provides TONS of academic aid for students in need of a little boost, and for those in need of a challenge, you always have the ability to choose more difficult, intense classes.

The only downside that I can really think of is the registration process, which is at times frustrating. However, I take this with a grain of salt: registration is just a difficult thing to get through, and friends I have at other colleges have the same problems. That being said, although it is sometimes difficult to get into more popular classes, Academic Advisers are always there to help ensure you get into classes that will both interest you, and make sure you graduate on time.

Overall, a really great experience.

Apr 30, 2012

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User rating for Whitman College - Academics is 4.6 out of 5 based on 22 user reviews.

Student Survey Poll ResultsWhat's This?

Rate your school’s professors on the following topics

Rate your school’s academic environment on the following topics

Facts

Instructional Programs Occupational: No
Academic: Yes
Continuing Professional: No
Recreational/Avocational: No
Adult Basic Remedial: No
Secondary (High School): No
Special Credit Opportunities Advanced Placement (AP) Credits: Yes
Dual Credit: Yes
Life Experience Credits: No
AP Test Score Requirements Possible credit given for scores of 4 or 5
IB Test Score Requirements Possible credit given for scores of 5, 6, or 7
Degrees Awarded Bachelor's degree
Most Popular Majors
  • Economics and Econometrics: 4%
  • English Language Studies: 4%
  • Political Science and Government, General: 4%
  • Psychology: 4%
Special Study Options Study abroad
Best Places to Study
  • Maxey Hall
  • Penrose Library
Did You Know?
  • Whitman College offers over 40 majors and combined programs.
  • Whitman offers five-year programs affiliated with such schools as Columbia, the University of Washington, and Duke.

Become a Contributing Author Learn more »

Most Recent Student Author View all

Name
Sara Rasmussen
Hometown
Salem, Ore.
Major
Politics

College Prowler is seeking talented student authors to assist with writing and updating the College Prowler guides to their schools. This is a great opportunity for a student to gain experience and tremendous exposure, utilize new media techniques, and share advice with high school students about what life is really like at your college.

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