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Whitman College's language requirements depend on the specific program and whether a student is an international applicant or a native English speaker. Here's an overview of the language requirements:

1. For Non-Native English Speakers (International Students):

International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following methods:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
  A minimum score of 80 on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT) is typically required, with at least a 20 in each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing).

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
  A minimum score of 6.5 overall, with no section lower than 6.0.

• Duolingo English Test:
  A score of 115 or higher is generally accepted as evidence of English proficiency.

• Cambridge English Qualifications:
  A C1 Advanced (formerly known as CAE) or C2 Proficiency with appropriate scores.

• Completion of Secondary Education in English:
  If a student has completed secondary school in an English-speaking country or in an English-medium institution, they may not need to provide standardized test scores, although the admissions office will evaluate the specifics of their academic background.

2. For Native English Speakers:

Native English speakers from the United States, the United Kingdom, or other countries where English is the primary language of instruction typically do not need to submit standardized language test scores. However, some students may be required to demonstrate writing proficiency as part of the admissions process.

3. Additional Language Requirements (if applicable):

• Foreign Language Requirement:
  Whitman College requires students to complete at least one foreign language course at the intermediate level, which can include languages like Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Arabic, and others. This is part of the general education requirement for graduation, and students can choose to take language courses according to their interests and academic goals.

For students applying to Whitman College, it's essential to check specific admission guidelines for any updates or changes to the language requirements and submit the appropriate English proficiency tests based on their background.

Applying to Whitman

Whitman College, located in Walla Walla, Washington, is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and emphasis on intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary learning, and community engagement. Here are the key course specialties and areas of academic strength at Whitman College:

1. Humanities and Social Sciences

• Whitman College is particularly known for its strong humanities programs, offering rigorous courses in subjects like Philosophy, English, History, Political Science, Sociology, and Religious Studies. These disciplines emphasize critical thinking, writing, and analysis, encouraging students to explore complex ideas and global issues.

2. Environmental Studies and Sciences

• Whitman has an excellent reputation in the field of Environmental Studies, offering interdisciplinary courses that combine science, policy, and ethics. The Environmental Science and Environmental Humanities programs are particularly notable for their focus on sustainability, conservation, and the study of human impact on the environment.

3. Biology and Health Sciences

• The Biology Department at Whitman is one of its strongest, providing a comprehensive education in cellular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, and genetics. Students have access to hands-on research opportunities, particularly in the Whitman College Science Center, where they can engage in both lab-based and field-based scientific studies.
• Pre-med students and those pursuing careers in healthcare benefit from the college’s robust health sciences programs, which prepare students for medical school, veterinary school, and other health-related graduate programs.

4. Physics and Mathematics

• Whitman is also known for its Physics and Mathematics programs, where students learn both the theoretical and applied aspects of these fields. The Physics program offers courses that focus on quantum mechanics, astrophysics, and classical mechanics, while the Mathematics department provides a strong foundation in both pure and applied mathematics.

5. Psychology

• The Psychology program at Whitman College is well-regarded, offering courses in cognitive psychology, behavioral neuroscience, social psychology, and clinical psychology. Students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience through research and internships.

6. Economics

• Whitman’s Economics program offers a balanced approach, combining the study of microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and international economics with opportunities for students to engage in economic policy analysis and research. The program prepares students for careers in business, government, and finance.

7. Art and Art History

• Whitman College is known for its strong arts programs, particularly in Studio Art and Art History. The Studio Art program includes a variety of media such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital art, while the Art History program focuses on global art movements, critical theory, and museum studies.

8. Foreign Languages and Literatures

• Whitman offers courses in several foreign languages and cultures, including Spanish, French, German, Chinese, and Arabic. The college is known for fostering a global perspective and preparing students for study abroad opportunities and international careers.

9. Business and Leadership

• While Whitman does not offer a formal business degree, it offers a popular Economics and Business track within the Economics Department. This program combines business fundamentals with the analytical framework of economics, offering students a solid foundation in business administration, finance, and marketing.

10. Interdisciplinary Programs

• Whitman College emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to design their own major or minor that bridges multiple disciplines. Popular interdisciplinary programs include American Studies, Global Studies, Gender Studies, and Film and Media Studies.

11. Theatre and Music

• The Theatre and Music programs at Whitman College provide students with opportunities to engage in performing arts, whether through acting, directing, or participating in choirs, ensembles, or orchestras. The college is known for its intimate performance spaces and supportive artistic community.

12. Public Policy and Law

• Whitman College also offers a range of courses in Public Policy, Political Science, and Pre-Law, which are designed to prepare students for careers in government, public service, and law. The college encourages students to become involved in internships and community service to build practical experience in these fields.

These areas of study highlight Whitman College’s commitment to providing a comprehensive liberal arts education with a strong focus on research, interdisciplinary learning, and community involvement.

Research at Whitman

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Whitman College is home to a talented and dedicated faculty, though it doesn't typically highlight a single "top professor" as many other universities might. The college emphasizes a personalized learning environment, where faculty members work closely with students and engage in high-quality teaching, research, and mentorship. That being said, some notable faculty members include:

1. Dr. James G. O'Rourke – Professor of Psychology

• Dr. O'Rourke is recognized for his research and expertise in neuroscience and psychology. His teaching focuses on human behavior and the biological basis of behavior, areas where he has contributed significantly to the field through his research and student mentorship.

2. Dr. David J. Kuhlman – Professor of Physics

• Dr. Kuhlman is known for his work in theoretical physics and astrophysics, where he has led numerous research initiatives and collaborations. He is also praised for his dedication to undergraduate research and mentoring students in the natural sciences.

3. Dr. Barbara Liskov (Alumna, Turing Award Winner) – Though no longer teaching at Whitman, Dr. Liskov’s legacy continues to influence the college. Her groundbreaking work in computer science and her Turing Award remain a point of pride for the institution.

4. Dr. Elena Pasquinelli – Professor of Philosophy

• Dr. Pasquinelli specializes in continental philosophy and environmental ethics, particularly focusing on issues related to social justice and ecological thought. Her teaching engages students in philosophical inquiry, encouraging them to explore global challenges from a philosophical perspective.

5. Dr. Leslie W. Shank – Professor of Music

• Dr. Shank is a highly respected figure in music performance and theory, particularly in the areas of jazz performance and composition. He plays a key role in the music department and often performs and collaborates with students and faculty alike.

Faculty Recognition:

While Whitman College places a strong emphasis on a collaborative academic environment, it is important to note that its faculty's primary strength lies in their collective commitment to teaching and research, rather than individual fame. Faculty members are recognized for their teaching excellence, scholarly achievements, and their ability to foster close, personalized connections with students.

Whitman’s professors often receive accolades for their work both within and beyond the classroom, and many have earned research fellowships, honors, and awards in their respective fields. The college’s small class sizes and focus on undergraduate research allow professors to have a deep and lasting impact on their students' academic development.

Whitman College itself has not produced a Nobel Prize winner as of now, but it has a strong academic reputation and has produced many successful individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. However, the college has notable Nobel Prize connections through its alumni and faculty:

1. Barbara Liskov (Class of 1961) – Nobel Prize in Computer Science:

   • Barbara Liskov, an alumna of Whitman College, won the Turing Award in 2008, which is often referred to as the "Nobel Prize of Computer Science." She was awarded for her work in the area of programming language design and software engineering, particularly for her work on abstract data types and the Liskov Substitution Principle, a fundamental concept in object-oriented programming.
   • While the Turing Award is not a Nobel Prize, it is the highest honor in the field of computer science and is considered comparable in prestige.

2. Kenji Okuda (Alumnus) – Notable Business Leader:

   • While not a Nobel Prize winner, Kenji Okuda is another distinguished Whitman College alumnus, recognized for his leadership and work in the business world, particularly in Japan.

Although Whitman College does not have a direct Nobel laureate, the educational philosophy at Whitman—focusing on critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and research—has undoubtedly contributed to the success of its alumni in various prestigious fields.