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U.S. News #119 Public, 4-year

Christopher Newport University

Newport News, Virginia · cnu.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#119

Acceptance rate

86.0%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$31,178

In-state $16,828

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

4,369

Student-faculty ratio 13:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

69.1%

4-year; 6-year rate 76.1%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Christopher Newport University (CNU) is a public liberal arts university located in Newport News, Virginia. Established in 1960, CNU has gained recognition for its commitment to providing a well-rounded education that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership. The university's mission is reflected in its motto, "The Pursuit of Excellence," which encapsulates its dedication to academic rigor and personal growth. CNU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on liberal arts and sciences, business, and the performing arts. The student-faculty ratio is favorable, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and mentorship from a highly qualified faculty. CNU's faculty members are not only educators but also active researchers and practitioners in their fields, which enriches the learning experience for students.

The campus of Christopher Newport University is known for its beautiful and well-maintained grounds, featuring state-of-the-art facilities that enhance both academic and extracurricular activities. The Ferguson Center for the Arts is a notable highlight, hosting various performances and cultural events that enrich the campus's vibrant arts scene. CNU is also committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive community, where diverse perspectives are valued. Students can engage in a wide array of student organizations, clubs, and athletic programs, promoting a dynamic campus life. In recent years, CNU has made headlines for its innovative approaches to education and community engagement, further solidifying its position as a leading institution in higher education. The university's graduates are well-prepared for the workforce, with many finding successful careers in various fields, thanks to the skills and knowledge they acquire during their time at CNU. Overall, Christopher Newport University embodies a strong commitment to academic excellence and the holistic development of its students.

Analysis of Key Data from Christopher Newport University

Christopher Newport University, as a public institution, has exhibited notable trends across several important metrics over the years. One of the most striking changes is in the graduation rates. The percentage of undergraduate students graduating on time has increased significantly from approximately 42.4% in 2013 to about 70.3% in 2023. This upward trend indicates improvements in student support services, academic programs, and overall institutional effectiveness, fostering a more conducive environment for student success.

In addition to graduation rates, tuition costs have consistently risen, reflecting broader trends in higher education financing. The in-state undergraduate tuition has increased from $11,092 in 2014 to $15,425 in 2023, marking a growth of approximately 39%. Conversely, out-of-state tuition rose from $20,992 to $28,663 during the same period, representing a 37% increase. These increases may pose challenges for prospective students and their families, especially considering the rising student debt crisis in the United States.

Moreover, the student retention rate has shown resilience, fluctuating around 85% to 87% over the years, with a slight dip to 85.8% in 2023. This stability suggests that the university has managed to maintain student engagement and satisfaction, which is crucial in retaining students through their academic journeys.

Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has also evolved, with male students representing about 46.5% of the population in 2023, compared to 43.1% in 2013. This gradual shift towards a more balanced gender representation might reflect broader societal changes and the university's efforts to attract a diverse student body.

In summary, while Christopher Newport University has made commendable strides in graduation rates and student retention, the rising tuition costs remain a critical issue that needs addressing to ensure accessibility for all students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
Virginia Beach, about 30 mi
Nearest international airport
Norfolk International Airport (ORF), about 20 mi
Newport News, Virginia
Also known as
CNU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
William G. Kelly (President)
Phone
7575947000
City
Newport News, Virginia
Address
1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News, VA 23606-3072

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
84.7%
Women
87.1%

In 2020: men 67.7%, women 75.0%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#119Ranked #119 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Trends in Admissions at Christopher Newport University

The admission data for Christopher Newport University reveals several intriguing trends over the years from 2009 to 2023. A significant decrease in acceptance rates is evident, particularly for male applicants, who saw a drop from around 53% in 2009 to approximately 84% in 2022, indicating an increasingly selective admissions process. Female applicants also experienced a similar trend, though their acceptance rates have consistently been slightly higher.
The enrollment numbers demonstrate fluctuations, with a peak in 2013 when 1,376 students were admitted. However, the total number of denials has generally remained high, suggesting that while the university is admitting a stable number of students, a larger pool of applicants is being rejected. This is reflective of a national trend in higher education, where universities are becoming increasingly competitive, partly due to a rising number of college-bound students.
The deferral rates have also seen a rise, particularly in recent years, which could be indicative of students seeking to delay their entry due to various factors like the pandemic's impact on education, financial considerations, or even a desire for gap years. This pattern aligns with broader trends where students are considering their options more carefully before committing to college.
Overall, these data points highlight a shift towards a more competitive admissions landscape at Christopher Newport University, mirroring national trends in higher education. The university's ability to adapt to these changes will be crucial in maintaining its appeal to prospective students.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Business School#345▼10 Computer Science#502▼32
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 38% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1060–1290Peer median 1080
ACT composite25–30
SAT Reading
550–660
600700800
SAT Math
510–630
600700800
ACT composite
25–30
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Scores at Christopher Newport University

The admission data from Christopher Newport University over the years reveals some notable trends in standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting these scores. The dataset highlights a general fluctuation in the SAT and ACT scores of admitted students between 2007 and 2023, reflecting broader trends in college admissions across the United States.

From 2007 to 2011, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores was consistently high, peaking at 94% in both 2007 and 2009. However, a significant decline is observed after 2011, with the submission rate dropping to 36% in 2022 and further to 40% in 2023. This trend could be indicative of a growing movement among colleges to adopt test-optional policies, which have gained traction in recent years, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

In terms of actual scores, the range for SAT reading and math shows a gradual increase in the lower and upper quartiles over the years, suggesting that while more students are opting out of submitting test scores, those who do tend to have higher scores. For instance, the 75th percentile SAT math score rose from 640 in 2007 to 670 in 2022, reflecting a rising standard among test-takers.

This phenomenon underscores a significant shift in college admissions strategies and student demographics. As institutions increasingly prioritize holistic evaluations beyond standardized tests, it will be crucial to monitor how these changes impact the overall diversity and academic quality of incoming classes. The data from Christopher Newport University encapsulates a critical juncture in higher education, revealing how evolving attitudes toward standardized testing are reshaping the landscape of college admissions.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

7,341 applicants in 2025, 86.0% admitted

6,316 admitted 1,025 not admitted Yield 18.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's9401 international (0.1%)
Master's621 international (1.6%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
137
Psychology, General
128
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
121
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
90
Computer Science
70
Political Science and Government, General
50
Visual and Performing Arts, General
40
Sociology, General
37
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
36
Economics, General
32

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's32 (0% international)
  • Finance, General · Master's15 (7% international)
  • Environmental Studies · Master's10 (0% international)
  • Physics, Other · Master's5 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Christopher Newport University in 2023

The graduation data from Christopher Newport University provides insightful trends regarding student enrollment across various disciplines. Business Administration stands out as the most popular major, with 181 bachelor's degrees awarded, indicating strong interest in business fields that align with current job market demands. This trend mirrors national statistics, where business remains a leading choice for undergraduates due to its perceived stability and career opportunities.

Psychology follows closely with 144 graduates, highlighting the increasing societal focus on mental health and well-being. As awareness of mental health issues grows, so does the demand for trained professionals in this field, potentially prompting more students to pursue psychology degrees.

Interestingly, the data reveals a lack of diversity in international students within undergraduate programs, with only a few international graduates across various majors. This could reflect broader trends in higher education, where international student enrollment has fluctuated due to factors like visa regulations and global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the realm of advanced degrees, the education field demonstrates a robust presence with 56 master's degrees awarded, suggesting a commitment to professional development in teaching. This aligns with ongoing discussions about educational reform and the need for skilled educators.

Conversely, technical fields like Computer Science and Engineering show lower graduation numbers, which could signal a gap in workforce preparedness in these high-demand sectors. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, addressing this gap becomes critical for universities aiming to equip students for future careers.

Overall, the data reflects both traditional academic interests and emerging trends, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in higher education to meet the changing needs of society and the job market.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 152 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$54,095
Finance, General.-
Biologyhas 145 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$34,238
Neuroscience.$35,821
Psychology has 128 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$35,451
Social sciencehas 119 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Economics, General.$58,485
Political Science and Government, General.$46,101
Sociology, General.$37,497
Communication has 90 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$45,170
Computer and information sciencehas 89 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Information Science/Studies.$61,358
Computer Science.$70,808
Visual and Performing artshas 47 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Visual and Performing Arts, General.$27,952
Music Performance, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.$46,281
Educationhas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.$56,864
History has 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.$35,389
Engineeringhas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Engineering, General.$75,144
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.-
Physical scienceshas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.$51,156
Physics, Other.-
English has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.$34,994
Mathmatics and statistics has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.$49,046
Public administrationhas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Work.-
Natural resources has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.-
Philosophy has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Philosophy.-
Foreign languages has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General.-

Students

4,454 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 48:52 · Freshman retention 81.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,369)

White
2,968 · 67.9%
Hispanic
401 · 9.2%
Black
401 · 9.2%
Two or more races
263 · 6.0%
Asian
177 · 4.1%
Unknown
136 · 3.1%
International
16 · 0.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.4%
18–19
44.2%
20–21
43.6%
22–24
10.2%
25 and over
1.6%

Graduate students

Under 22
4.7%
22–24
80.0%
25–29
8.2%
30–34
5.9%
35 and over
1.2%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Christopher Newport University in 2023

The student composition at Christopher Newport University in 2023 reflects a diverse and balanced gender representation among undergraduate freshmen and upperclassmen. Notably, the percentage of male students in the freshman cohort stands at 49.5%, while the female students make up 50.5%. This indicates a relatively equal distribution, which is encouraging for fostering an inclusive environment for new entrants.

For upperclassmen, the scenario shifts slightly, with male students constituting 45.2% and female students 54.8%. This suggests a trend where female students are slightly more prevalent among older cohorts, which may be indicative of broader societal patterns in higher education, where women increasingly pursue degrees at higher rates than men.

In terms of transfer students, the balance is quite close as well, with males at 50.7% and females at 49.3%. This further emphasizes the university's commitment to attracting a diverse student body across various classifications.

However, the graduate student demographic shows a different story, with a notable gender disparity. Male students make up only 41.8% of the graduate population, while females represent 58.2%. This could reflect the growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees, potentially influenced by increased access to higher education and targeted support for female students in graduate programs.

Overall, the data highlights Christopher Newport University’s strengths in promoting diversity and gender balance, particularly in undergraduate programs, while also acknowledging the shifts in gender representation among graduate students. These trends are crucial for shaping policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing student success and inclusivity.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Christopher Newport University

The age distribution of students at Christopher Newport University in 2023 reveals significant insights into the demographics of the student body. The majority of students fall within the traditional college age range of 18 to 24 years. Notably, the 18-19 age group comprises 45% of the total male student population and 47% of the total female student population, indicating a strong influx of freshers entering the university.

The age group of 20-21 also shows substantial numbers, making up approximately 45% of male students and 45% of female students, which suggests a healthy retention rate into the second year of study. However, as we move into the 22-24 age range, the number of students begins to decline, especially among males, where only about 23% of males are found in this category. This could imply that many students either graduate or take a break from their studies during this period.

Interestingly, the representation of older students (25 and above) is minimal, with only 2% of the total male and female student population combined. This trend aligns with national statistics that show a decline in the number of adult learners in traditional college environments, likely influenced by the increasing demand for immediate workplace entry post-high school.

The presence of a few students over 40 years of age suggests that while the university does attract non-traditional students, they remain a small minority. Overall, the data indicates a youthful and predominantly traditional student body at Christopher Newport University, which is characteristic of many universities across the United States today.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.4%

16 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.4%2017: 0.4%2018: 0.3%2019: 0.4%2020: 0.4%2021: 0.2%2022: 0.3%2023: 0.4%2024: 0.2%2025: 0.4%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students2.4%

2 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 2.7%2018: 2.4%2019: 1.0%2020: 1.2%2021: 0.9%2022: 1.8%2023: 0.9%2024: 1.0%2025: 2.4%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Christopher Newport University

The data on international student enrollment at Christopher Newport University reveals several trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, with a notable peak of 22 students in 2011, resulting in an impressive 0.46% of the total undergraduate population. However, this percentage has seen a decline in subsequent years, reaching just 0.19% in 2021.

The total number of undergraduate students has also experienced a slight decrease in recent years, indicating potential challenges in attracting new international students. This trend may reflect broader issues affecting international student mobility, such as changing immigration policies, global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, and increased competition from other universities.

In contrast, the data for graduate students is less comprehensive, with limited entries showing a small number of international graduate students enrolled. The highest percentage recorded was 2.68% in 2017, but subsequent years show a decrease. This discrepancy between undergraduate and graduate international student numbers could indicate a need for targeted recruitment strategies for graduate programs.

Overall, the fluctuating enrollment rates highlight the importance of Christopher Newport University actively engaging in recruitment efforts and enhancing support services for international students. As global dynamics continue to evolve, institutions must adapt their strategies to remain competitive and supportive to attract diverse student populations.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$43,638

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$31,178
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$16,828
Room and board
$12,460
Graduate tuition
$22,986
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 17%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$272M

Auxiliary enterprises
$75.9M27.9%
Government grants and contracts
$67.5M24.8%
Tuition and fees
$33.4M12.3%
Gifts and private grants
$3.8M1.4%
Investment return
$1.7M0.6%
Other
$89.5M32.9%

Expenses$189M

Auxiliary enterprises
$74.1M39.2%
Instruction
$56.8M30.1%
Institutional support
$23.2M12.3%
Academic support
$17.6M9.3%
Student services
$12.0M6.3%
Research
$4.1M2.2%
Scholarships
$1.2M0.6%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$98,904peers $80,690
Professor
$124,125peers $98,841
Associate professor
$98,720peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$89,465peers $74,446
Instructor
$82,378peers $58,934
Lecturer
$82,513peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · New Jersey Athletic Conference · Capital Athletic Conference

New Jersey Athletic Conference: football

Capital Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football132-
Lacrosse5729
Track and Field (Indoor)4728
Track and Field (Outdoor)4728
Soccer3232
Baseball50-
Basketball2118
Softball-30
Cross Country1710
Field Hockey-22
Volleyball-19
Tennis108
Golf107
Sailing--
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football107-
Lacrosse6034
Track and Field (Indoor)5026
Track and Field (Outdoor)5026
Soccer2930
Baseball50-
Basketball2219
Softball-28
Cross Country167
Field Hockey-19
Tennis910
Golf98
Volleyball-13
Sailing--
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football135-
Lacrosse5427
Track and Field (Indoor)4332
Track and Field (Outdoor)4232
Soccer3432
Baseball47-
Cross Country1520
Basketball1717
Tennis1411
Softball-24
Volleyball-20
Golf99
Field Hockey-17
Sailing--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Christopher Newport University:

  1. William & Mary - Ranked 53rd in the 2024 US News rankings, William & Mary is a public research university located in Williamsburg, Virginia. It is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States.

  2. University of Virginia-Main Campus - With a ranking of 24, the University of Virginia is a prestigious public university located in Charlottesville, Virginia. Founded by Thomas Jefferson, it offers a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence.

  3. University of Richmond - This university is ranked 25th and is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum. Located in Richmond, Virginia, it provides a personalized education with a focus on student engagement and leadership.

  4. George Washington University - Ranked 67th, this university in Washington, D.C., is well-known for its programs in international affairs, public policy, and business, offering students unique opportunities due to its proximity to the nation's capital.

  5. Georgetown University - With a rank of 22, Georgetown University is a prestigious private university in Washington, D.C. It is renowned for its programs in law, international relations, and public policy, attracting students from around the world.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and experiences, making them excellent choices for students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
464
Dating violence
55
Stalking
45
Rape
31
Liquor arrests
18
Drug referrals
17

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Christopher Newport University

The crime statistics from Christopher Newport University over the years indicate notable fluctuations in the crime rates per 1,000 students. In 2013, the average crime rate was 27.38, which gradually decreased to 19.76 by 2022, showing a significant improvement in campus safety. However, the figures spiked notably in 2017 and 2018, reaching a peak of 45.27, which raises concerns about the factors contributing to these increases.

The data reveals that offenses related to gun arrests were present throughout these years, though the numbers varied and often were low, suggesting effective management of such incidents. On the other hand, drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents seem to have fluctuated widely, indicative of changing student behaviors or possibly varying enforcement policies.

Interestingly, the overall trend shows a decline in crime rates in recent years, particularly post-2020, which could be attributed to improved campus safety measures, increased awareness, and possibly changes in student conduct during the pandemic. Nonetheless, the uptick in arrests for domestic violence and assault in certain years highlights that these issues remain pertinent on college campuses.

The downward trend in crime rates is promising, but it is essential for the university to continue monitoring and addressing the underlying causes of these incidents to ensure a safe environment for all students. For those interested in understanding how to calculate crime rates, further information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Christopher Newport University include Randall Munroe (Creator of the webcomic xkcd), Mojo Rawley (Former WWE professional wrestler) and Cassidy Hutchinson (Former White House aide, January 6 hearing witness).

More alumni (1, by field)

Politics and law

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

Recent News at Christopher Newport University

Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.

0Updates in the past 12 months
Sep 2024Latest update
CampusMost common topic
  1. Campus facilities

    Christopher Newport University features Pope Chapel as its central interfaith space and recently opened a dedicated prayer room in Trible Library for Muslim students, faculty, and staff.

    Source: cnu.edu

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.