General Information

Chapman University, founded in 1861, is an independent, comprehensive mid-sized private institution dedicated to providing a solid foundation of knowledge that enables its graduates to become fully educated persons. The University comprises the George L. Argyros School of Business and Economics; Donna Ford Attallah College of Educational Studies; Lawrence and Kristina Dodge College of Film and Media Arts; Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences; Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences; Dale E. Fowler School of Law; Dale E. and Sarah Ann Fowler School of Engineering; School of Communication; College of Performing Arts; School of Pharmacy and Schmid College of Science and Technology.

Chapman is recognized for its blend of professional programs, sciences, and liberal arts, as well as its distinguished faculty, innovative programs, and personalized attention to students. The University strives to develop in students the ability to think clearly, communicate effectively, explore issues from contrasting points of view, value human and cultural diversity, and make informed ethical judgments in an increasingly complex world.

Highlights

Vision Statement

Chapman University will be a student-centered institution, recognized nationally and internationally as a center of academic and personal excellence that prepares our students to contribute to a global society.

Mission

The mission of Chapman University is to provide personalized education of distinction that leads to inquiring, ethical and productive lives as global citizens.

Central Commitments

The mission of Chapman University finds expression through these central commitments:

Create stimulating learning environments for a diverse population.

• Recruit and retain an outstanding faculty that cherishes teaching, research, and creative activity as primary professional commitments. These faculty members also strive to build a creative intellectual community in which students and faculty share a commitment to the inquiring life and the pursuit of knowledge.
• Offer curricula that integrate liberal arts and professional learning to foster independent and critical thinking, effective communication, and an international perspective.
• Create learning, living, and working environments that foster diversity, multiple perspectives, and the free exchange of ideas.
• Affirm our openness to diverse religious, spiritual, political, and ethical traditions.
• Encourage the linkage between a life of learning, and service and vital interaction of the University with our wider communities.
• Devote resources in a fiscally responsible manner to support outstanding teaching, scholarship, and learning, and develop facilities that enhance the living and learning environments.

History

In the late 1840s, a group that would come to be known as the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) headed for California, spurred by visions of gold. That dream died, but by the 1860s members had settled in Woodland, where they built a school, Hesperian College, which opened its doors on March 4,1861. The date is notable: They timed the opening to coincide with the Inauguration of Abraham Lincoln as the 16th U.S. President. The school welcomed women as well as men and students of all races - a radical concept for that day. No one could have known it at the time, but the seeds of Hesperian would eventually grow to become Chapman University.

After many years and ambitious initiatives, in 1919 a prominent orange grower and trusted Disciples leader, Charles C. Chapman, challenged Disciples members to match his gift of $400,000 toward establishing a college in Los Angeles. That challenge was met, and land was purchased on Vermont Avenue, where a college soon grew. In 1934, to honor C.C. Chapman’s legacy, the college was renamed Chapman College. Many more challenges have been faced in the decades that have followed, including Chapman’s 1954 move from Los Angeles to a new campus in Orange. But even as Chapman College became Chapman University, the founders’ commitment to inclusion and civil discourse that bridges divide not only has endured, but it has expanded and been embraced by new generations of Chapman Family members.

Accreditation

Chapman University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission (985 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 100, Alameda, CA 94501, (510) 748-9001). Chapman University is also proud to have many of its programs nationally accredited through the following accreditors:

• Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education
• Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant
• American Bar Association
• American Chemical Society
• American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
• California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
• Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education
• Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education
• Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
• Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation 
• International School Psychology Association
• National Association of School Psychologists
• National Association of Schools of Music
• National Association of Schools of Dance
• National Association of Schools of Theatre

Memberships

Chapman University is a member of the Independent Colleges of Southern California, the Association of American Colleges and Universities, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the College Entrance Examination Board, the Western College Association, the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities, the American Council on Education, the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, the Division of Higher Education of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the Council of Graduate Schools, and the Western Association of Graduate Schools. The Fowler School of Law is a member of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS).

Reputation

Chapman University is California’s third-largest private university and is highly competitive in national rankings.

• Chapman University is among the top universities in the nation, according to rankings from U.S. News & World Report, which also has named Chapman one of the “Most Innovative” universities in the West. In 2019, Chapman was designated a top-tier institution - an indication of the university’s rising reputation, world-class faculty, and growing research programs.
• Chapman is categorized by the Carnegie Classification as an R2 “high research activity” institution, and it consistently ranks as a top producer of Fulbright Scholars.
• According to The Princeton Review, Chapman is an “extraordinary blend of liberal arts, science and professional programs.”
• Chapman’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts is ranked the No. 4 film school in the nation by both The Hollywood Reporter and The Wrap.
• The university has also earned accolades from U.S. News & World Report for excellence in undergraduate teaching.
• Since 1993, Chapman has established more than 50 endowed chairs and professorships and has received grants from the nation’s most prestigious foundations.
• Other media organizations recognize Chapman’s value as well: The Orange County Register has called Chapman “one of the hottest private schools in California,” The Washington Post lists Chapman as a “hidden gem” among U.S. universities, and Kiplinger’s says Chapman is among the best values in higher education.

Values and Ethics

One of the most distinguishing aspects of a Chapman education is the ethical emphasis that underscores all academic and student life programs. Students are challenged to think, examine their values, and prepare for their future considering how the world might be a better place and how they might contribute to the world. These values and ethics are based in the distinctive denominational history of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), respecting all persons, faiths and service to the world, and our inclusive Fish Interfaith Center, upholding the Spiritual Pillar of Chapman University.

Diversity on Campus

Chapman supports diversity on campus through programs, initiatives, services, and committees coordinated by the Cross-Cultural Center, Civic Engagement Initiatives, Disability Services, the Interfaith Center, the Promising Futures Program, Residence Life and First Year Experience, the Argyros Forum Student Union, the University Program Board, student organizations, academic departments and more. During the academic year, there are a wide range of opportunities to engage in cross-cultural dialogue, experiences, and opportunities that foster a sense of identity, empathy, and community. The programs and services offered support students and seek to increase understanding and appreciation of diversity on campus and within the surrounding community. Student advocacy for diversity on campus is directed through the Student Government Association and Graduate Student Association. Faculty diversity efforts are channeled through the Faculty Senate. The Office of Diversity and Inclusion endeavors to bring students, staff, faculty administrators, and trustees together for meaningful dialogue focused on developing strategic priorities and recommendations for diversity and inclusion at Chapman. You can review Chapman University’s statement on Diversity and Inclusion on the Diversity at Chapman webpage www.chapman.edu/diversity.

Graduate Education

Chapman’s graduate curricula are designed to provide advanced study in specific disciplines to broaden and deepen knowledge of the subject studied. In addition, graduate degrees give the students practical training and skills for advancement in selected professional careers.

Small classes and close personal supervision by the faculty are hallmarks of Chapman. Graduate students are expected to show persistence, maturity, the capacity for growth, and an interest far beyond the attainment of the minimum requirements for degrees.

Faculty

The more than 576 full-time (563 instructional, 13 research) and 640 part-time faculty represent an outstanding range of intellectual interests, research endeavors, and creative activities. They include noted researchers in the sciences and social sciences, gifted artists, prolific writers, talented filmmakers, and widely published and recognized scholars.

As a community, the faculty is comprised of people who connect active scholarship and creative activity with teaching and learning as a bridge between research and practice. Their research and creative work inform both their teaching and their lives in ways that enable students to see the value of a commitment to lifelong learning. Some 87 percent hold terminal degrees and 43 percent are tenured. Full-time faculty teach two to three courses a term.

Center for Global Education

Travel Courses

Chapman faculty representing a wide range of academic departments lead travel courses during the January interterm or summer session(s). Courses range from one to four weeks and may travel domestically or internationally. All students are encouraged to participate in these courses to gain a perspective about other countries and cultures. Credit is awarded for the academic work involved in the course. Students may be eligible for a tuition waiver for their participation in a travel program. For more information, contact the Center for Global Education webpage at www.chapman.edu/cge or via email at globaled@chapman.edu.

Enrollment

The 2022-2023 student body population was 10014, 2145 of whom were graduate students. Chapman welcomes students from around the country and the world. Over 74 countries are represented among Chapman’s international student body. Enrollment has steadily grown since the early 1990s. Chapman upholds its tradition of providing personalized education to students by maintaining a faculty to student ratio of 12:1.

Calendar

Chapman has multiple academic calendars. The Orange campus, non-law programs follow a 4-1-4 academic year calendar. The Rinker Health Science campus has three terms (fall, spring, summer) per year. The Fowler School of Law has its own semester-based calendar.

See Academic Calendar .

Career and Professional Development - Services

Chapman University is every Panther’s career connection for life. The University is committed to providing all Panthers with the tools, resources, and networking opportunities to help them find success and fulfillment in their professional endeavors during their time at Chapman and after graduating.

All students and alumni from every school and college at Chapman University have access to comprehensive personalized career support, including university-wide career services with the Offices of Career and Professional Development and program-specific support with college career specialists or centers.

Services and events include personalized career coaching appointments, workshops, career fairs, excursions, industry panels, company information sessions, interviews, and networking events. Topics range from resumes to cover letters, job search, career exploration, interviewing, skill development, networking and more.

View resources, search for jobs and internships, register for events and schedule career appointments by logging into Chapman’s career portal, Handshake, at www.chapman.joinhandshake.com.

Learn more about career services at Chapman University’s Career and Professional Development at www.chapman.edu/career.

Disability Services

Chapman University is committed to making its educational opportunities accessible to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. By providing access to qualified students with disabilities, the University demonstrates its belief that the community will benefit from their skills and talents. In this regard, Chapman University has implemented the following policies:

• Chapman University strictly prohibits any form of discrimination on the basis of an individual’s disability.
• Chapman University offers reasonable accommodations to otherwise qualified individuals.

The Director of Disability Services administers these policies. Summaries and references to these policies are provided in the University’s application and admissions materials and its student handbook. Individuals can also obtain information about these policies, services, documentation requirements, etc. from Disability Services via email at DS@chapman.edu.

Disability Services serves as the clearinghouse for all requested accommodations. It is the responsibility of the student requesting accommodations to make these needs known in a timely fashion and to provide proper documentation and medical evaluations as required to the Disabilities Services office (www.chapman.edu/disabilities). It is recommended that the student provide these materials prior to the beginning of the academic year or term so that the University may better serve the student’s needs and the student may avoid any irreversible academic consequences. Once notification has been made the University will engage in an interactive process to identify our obligation to provide reasonable accommodations. Services provided will be based on the individual needs of the student and may include extended test time, notetakers, etc. The granting of any accommodation will not be retroactive and cannot jeopardize the academic standards or integrity of the course.

Student Psychological Counseling Services

Confidential psychological counseling services are provided to students on an as-available basis. Limited psychiatric evaluations are available to students in therapy at Student Psychological Counseling Services (SPCS) as appropriate. Referrals to other off-campus psychiatrists and therapists are available for all students. Graduate students must opt to pay a health and counseling fee at the time of registration. For more information, visit the SPCS webpage at www.chapman.edu/spcs or email at spcs@chapman.edu

Student Health Services

The goal of medical services is to provide the opportunity for academic success, while the focus is to provide students with easy access to health care and disease prevention.

Chapman University Student Health (CUSH) is staffed with medical providers to promote good health and to assess and treat a variety of physical ailments. Services include: first aid treatment, acute illnesses, gynecological services, immunizations, and health screening.  

Please visit our webpage at www.chapman.edu/cush for the most up to date information.

Library Services

The Leatherby Libraries, located on the Orange Campus, opened in the Fall term of 2004. The five-story facility serves as an intellectual and cultural heart of the campus and is designed to meet the information needs of Chapman’s students, faculty, and staff.

Our innovative libraries combine the latest information technology with personalized attention that is the hallmark of a Chapman education. It includes nine individually named libraries with distinctive collections representing the University’s disciplinary areas: arts and humanities, social sciences, science and technology, education, music, film television and media arts, and business and economics. In addition, two special libraries are located on the 4th floor. They are named the Frank Mt. Pleasant Library of Special Collections and Archives and the Sala and Aron Samueli Holocaust Memorial Library. Two additional primary archives collections are located on the lower level of the library. They include the Center for American War Letters Archives and California’s Gold Exhibit, and Huell Howser Archives.

The facility features five conference rooms, two proctor-preferred rooms, eight group study rooms, six multi-media preview rooms, one multi-station music listening area, 206 computers for user access (152 computers, 28 iMacs, and 26 USB-C hub monitors), wireless Internet access available throughout the building, five computer classrooms, a dedicated library instruction room, an extended-hour study commons and more than 810 seats at tables, carrels, and lounge chairs.

The Leatherby Libraries’ collection contains over 450,000 titles, including DVDs, videos, CDs and other media; 62 print journal titles; access to 109,472 full-text electronic journals; 390 online databases; and over 234,000 electronic books that support the research and curricular needs of the campus community.

Interlibrary loan services are available to support the research needs of students and faculty by obtaining books and articles not held at Leatherby Libraries. Requests for materials from other libraries are easily submitted through an online system that allows individuals to set up personalized accounts, submit requests, and track outstanding requests.

The library information literacy and instruction program is an important part of graduate and undergraduate programs. It ensures that students are connected to the information resources they need to succeed in their courses and become life-long learners.

Additionally, the library offers a range of lectures, exhibitions, permanent art, and curriculum-related displays throughout the year. Here is a list of graduate student services and resources, as well as the doctoral and graduate student circulation policies. For more information, visit the Leatherby Libraries webpage at www.chapman.edu/library.

Health Sciences Study Commons

The Health Sciences Study Commons, located at the Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, provides a flexible and technology-enabled study space for the Chapman University students, faculty, and staff.

Open 24/7, the facility provides library services to the Rinker Health Science Campus and accommodates those looking for collaborative and individual study spaces that are available to facilitate coursework, studying, and research. The Health Sciences Study Commons features twelve group study rooms, twenty individual study carrels, a quiet study area, a computer lab, wireless internet access, and 175 seats at tables, carrels, and lounge chairs.

The Health Sciences Study Commons offers two collections of library materials that focus on the research and curricular needs of the Rinker campus students and faculty. The core research and reference collection consist of books that must be used within the Study Commons. All other materials are part of the circulating collection that may be checked out by Rinker Campus faculty, staff, and students, at the library reference desk. Research, reference, and instruction support is also provided by the Health Sciences Librarians located within the Study Commons. Chapman students, faculty, and staff at the Rinker campus also have access to over 85,000 full-text electronic journals, 307 online databases, and 18,000 electronic books available through the Leatherby Libraries. Interlibrary loan services are available to support the research needs of students and faculty by obtaining books and articles not held in the Health Sciences Study Commons. Students and faculty may also request any of the 413,000 titles including DVDs, videos, CDs, and other media available at the Leatherby Libraries through our interlibrary loan service.

Hugh and Hazel Darling Law Library

The Hugh and Hazel Darling Law Library is located in Kennedy Hall at the Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law. It is an integral part of the Fowler School of Law, supporting faculty research, scholarship, and teaching, and helping students to become proficient legal researchers.

Dedicated in honor of Hugh and Hazel Darling in 2016, the Darling Law Library occupies one full wing of Kennedy Hall. The facility features 11 group study rooms for use by Fowler School of Law students and a mix of study tables and chairs, carrels, and soft seating areas conducive to quiet study and research. The Darling Law Library offers four computers for conducting legal research, a microfiche/microfilm scanner, two copy machines, and four wireless printing stations. Wireless internet access is available throughout the building.

The Darling Law Library’s collection contains thousands of print volumes and numerous databases facilitating access to more than 3 million resources. Among its materials are federal and state primary authority, legal treatises, practitioner guides, legal encyclopedias, periodicals, study aids, a DVD collection of films and documentaries about the law or featuring legal themes, and more.

Chapman University faculty, staff, and students may check out circulating materials at the Darling Law Library’s Circulation Service desk or confer with a Research/Instruction Librarian about legal research strategies and resources at its Research Desk.

On display is the latest scholarship by Fowler School of Law faculty, along with a collection of framed Vanity Fair art prints gifted to the Fowler School of Law. A bronze relief of its namesakes, Hugh and Hazel Darling, appears on the Law Library’s first floor. Highlighting recent scholarship by Fowler School of faculty, the Darling Law Library also hosts Book Talks open to the Chapman University community.

The Darling Law Library is open to Chapman University faculty, staff, students, and alumni with Chapman University ID and law students, faculty, and staff from other ABA law schools with both school and government-issued IDs.

Restaurant Services - Graduate Student Dining Options

Chapman University Restaurant Services is more than great food. It is a community centered on culinary expertise, fresh ingredients, healthy options, and a shared sense of environmental and social responsibility. Join us to enjoy the comfort, convenience, outstanding food, and inviting atmosphere designed especially for you.

Orange Campus has a variety of dining options for graduate students. Here, dining halls aren’t just reserved for undergrad or residential students. Located in the Sandhu building, Randall Dining Commons is Chapman University’s nationally recognized all-you-care-to-eat dining facility. Randall is open to the entire campus community and features several food platforms including our seasonally organic and local salad bar, deli, hand-crafted brick oven pizza, made-to-order pasta, delicious Asian cuisine, hand-rolled sushi, open-fire mesquite-grilled items, delightfully refreshing vegan entrées, and our very popular Euro Station serving dishes from regions across the globe.

Those with special diets, lifestyles, and allergies have plenty of options to choose from at Randall Dining Commons. Our Mindful station focuses on big flavor, full plates, and making it an easy choice to enjoy a healthier lifestyle. Simple Servings provides safe and crave-able choices for anyone with food allergies, gluten intolerance, or those who prefer simply prepared meals.

For graduate students looking for a late-night dining option, Doy’s Place, beside Randall Dining Commons, hosts our eatery “Twelve” - and it’s generally open from 8 p.m. -1 a.m., perfect for graduate students taking night classes. Choose from a flavorful menu including pizza and a specially optimized to mix and match proteins, vegetables, grains, and greens station where you can ‘be the chef’. Stocked with fresh coffee, snacks, and cold beverages, Twelve is the perfect place for your study and social sessions. In Argyros Forum, Chapman Restaurant Services offers dining choices to keep you performing your best no matter what your day has ahead. Grab your morning smoothie from Jamba Juice, lunch at Sub-Connection or Qdoba Mexican Grill, and an afternoon pick-me-up at Einstein Brothers Bagels, all located in Argyros Forum.

Starbucks is located Beckman Hall and features delicious, handcrafted beverages and great-tasting food; the secret to making life better! Starbucks roasts high-quality whole bean coffees and fresh, rich brewed Italian-style espresso beverages and a variety of pastries and confections. Starbucks also offers a full line of sandwiches and snacks.

The Rotunda Café is located inside Leatherby Libraries. Enjoy Simply to Go menu items including salads, sushi, sandwiches, yogurt, and fruit cups, made fresh on campus daily. Beverages include Coca-Cola soft drinks, energy drinks, and our fair trade Aspretto coffee and tea.

If you are looking to get your creativity flowing at the Digital Media Arts Center, we’ve got you covered! Grab a Simply to Go sandwich or salad or get an energy boost with freshly brewed coffee.

The best way to dine on the Orange Campus is with a meal plan. Choose from several meal plans designed for the busy schedules of residential and commuter students, as well as faculty and staff. Save up to 59 percent off on all Chapman restaurants if you purchase a commuter meal plan! To learn more or to buy now, text CHAPrs to 82257.

On Rinker Health Science Campus, we have ways for you to stay energized and fueled throughout the day and night. We are excited to offer handcrafted beverages to the Micro Market in the 9501 Student Commons, where you can fill up on snacks and satisfying ice-cold beverages.

For hours of operation, text CHAPrs to 82257, please visit the Chapman Dining webpage at  www.chapman.edu/dining or connect with us on social media on our Chapman University Restaurant Services Facebook page at www.facebook.com/chapmanuniversityrestaurantservices or Chapman Chow Instagram account at www.instagram.com/chapmanchow.

Public Safety

The primary role of the Office of Public Safety is to provide a safe working and learning environment for students, faculty, and staff. The office operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides a variety of services: safety and emergency preparedness consultation, lost and found, operation safe-ride, property identification, vehicle registration, and bicycle registration. The Office of Public Safety requires that all vehicles and bicycles on campus be registered, and all registrations are processed through this office. For more information about parking and registering your vehicle, you can log onto the Parking Services webpage www.chapman.edu/parkingservices. For more information, visit the Office of Public Safety webpage at www.chapman.edu/publicsafety or call (714) 997-6763. The Office of Public Safety on the Orange campus is located at 418 North Glassell and on the Rinker Health Science campus it is located at 9401 Jeronimo Road, room 110.

Operation Safe Ride - Orange Campus

Chapman University Public Safety, in partnership with Associated Students, is pleased to offer Operation Safe Ride. This service is provided to escort students, faculty, staff, and visitors around Chapman University during the hours in which safety is of utmost concern (see hours of operation). Public Safety Officers can also provide an escort anytime outside the operation hours if requested by someone who feels the need for a safe escort. The service is offered free of charge and provides a designated student worker who will pick up a student, faculty member, staff member and/or visitor to the Campus, and deliver that person to their vehicle, room in the residence halls, or location within the designated boundaries. If you need a safe ride, call (714) 997-6680.

Chapman University Campus Stores

Chapman University Bookstore, located in Bhathal Student Services Center on the Orange Campus, is your source for all Chapman University course materials. A large selection of new and used textbooks, rental eligible titles, and digital course materials are available both in store and online. Please see a team member for details pertaining to our refund policy for textbooks. We host a buyback program every day, but the best offers for books are made during finals week. The Bookstore has a curated selection of apparel and gifts, including merchandise for Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, Fowler School of Law, and School of Pharmacy. The Bookstore carries an assortment of supplies you need and health & beauty items you want. Quench your thirst with energy drinks and more while satiating your hunger with snack options that include healthy choices and grab and go items.

Agora Gift Shop is located in Argyros Forum on the Orange Campus. All things Chapman is what makes up the gift shop, from fashion-forward to classics, you will find the latest in Chapman apparel, gifts, and supplies. Along with everything you need to show your Chapman spirit, the Gift Shop also carries Apple hardware and products, a selection of school and dorm supplies, health and beauty aids, confections, and more.

Shop 24 hours a day on Chapman University Campus Stores webpage www.chapmanstore.com for the latest in Chapman fashion and gifts, course materials, and more. Chose in-store pick up for free or shipping options are available starting at $6.99. For more information, the Campus Stores and can be reached by phone at (714) 997-6718 or by email at chapman@bkstr.com.

Store Hours

Up to the minute store hours are available on the Campus Store News and Hours webpage at www.bkstr.com/chapmanstore/store-hours.

University Bookstore

Agora Gift Shop

Extended hours are offered during back to school, finals, commencement, and special events.

Church Relationship

Chapman’s roots are firmly grounded in its historic covenant with our founders, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). That rich spiritual legacy lives on through Chapman’s focus on the development of the ethical, spiritual, and intellectual person. A variety of religious studies courses and spiritual programming activities are offered, but not required. The dean of the chapel oversees an active interfaith program designed to meet the spiritual needs of the University’s students, faculty, and staff. A full-time director of church relations strengthens the University’s covenant with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) as well as provides programs for the broader community. As of 2010, Chapman University is also recognized by the United Church of Christ as a church-related school. Honoring this connection, there is a special student ministry and scholarship program for students from Disciples and United Church of Christ backgrounds. Both the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ respect the many paths to God and strongly support Chapman’s nurturing of students, faculty, and staff of all faith backgrounds, as well as those who are atheist or agnostic. For more information about the Disciples and United Church of Christ program, visit the Office of Church Relations webpage at www.chapman.edu/churchrelations.

Chapman University embraces four pillars of education: intellectual, social, physical, and spiritual. The dean of the chapel supports a host of religious and spiritual groups including progressive and evangelical Protestants, Roman Catholics, Latter-day Saints, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, Baha’is, Sikhs, Wiccans, and those exploring meditation, health and healing and intersections between religion and other intellectual disciplines. New groups may be formed to support the interests and needs of the current student body. Major religious conferences and speakers are hosted each year. For more information, visit the Fish Interfaith Center webpage at www.chapman.edu/FIC.

In addition to the chaplaincy services of the director of the church relations and the dean of the chapel, there is also a director of Jewish life and a director of Muslim life who serve their unique populations in addition to the entire campus.

The beautiful Fish Interfaith Center houses the Wallace All Faiths Chapel, Wilkinson Founders Chapel, Yoder Sanctuary, Peterson Conference Room, The Fashionables Courtyard, Dee’s Garden of the Senses, a lounge, administrative offices, and a columbarium. A team of internationally known architects and artists cooperated in the design of this inspirational and award-winning sacred space, which opened in 2004.

Campus

Chapman University is located in the heart of Orange County, California, an exciting and ever-changing nexus of technology, business and the arts. A blend of new, state-of-the-art and historic buildings offers students the latest educational and technological resources. Among recent additions:

• Sandi Simon Center for Dance, opened in 2023, features performance spaces, studios, classrooms, and study areas befitting one of the most highly selective dance conservatories in the nation.
• The Keck Center for Science and Engineering, opened in the fall of 2018, houses programs in the Schmid College of Science and Technology and the Fowler School of Engineering. At 140,000 square feet, it is the largest and most ambitious building in the university’s history.
• The Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, located in Irvine, houses classrooms and laboratories for graduate students enrolled in the Chapman University School of Pharmacy, the Physician Assistant Studies program and other graduate health science programs in the Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences.
• Marybelle and Sebastian P. Musco Center for the Arts is an elegant 1,044-seat high-tech professional arts venue that can accommodate full-scale Broadway, opera, ballet, and other touring productions as well as Chapman student performances.
• The Hilbert Museum of California Art exhibits and celebrates the unique California Scene Painting movement that flourished roughly 1920-1970, depicting important growth and change in the Golden State.

Location

The beautiful 90-acre Chapman University main campus in Orange, California, is 35 miles southeast of Los Angeles, in the heart of the exciting cultural and natural attraction attractions of Orange County, which has been rated “the number one place to live in North America” by Places Rated Almanac. World-renowned ocean beaches are less than 10 miles away, mountains and deserts are within an hour’s drive, and San Diego and Mexico are just 90 miles south. Just minutes from the university are acclaimed recreation and entertainment venues, including Disneyland, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Anaheim Convention Center, Bowers Museum of Cultural Art, Knott’s Berry Farm, Angel Stadium and Honda Center. Major attractions of Los Angeles, including the Getty Center, Walt Disney Concert Hall, L.A. County Museum of Art, the Hollywood Bowl and much more are within an hour to 90-minute drive.

Created to meet the demands of tomorrow’s advanced health care professionals, the Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science campus is home to Chapman University’s School of Pharmacy and several graduate programs in the Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences. The Rinker Health Science Campus is ideally situated in Irvine, where students can pursue research and internships with renowned pharmaceutical companies, health care organizations and facilities right in their own back yard. The technologically innovative campus promotes inter-professional education and interdisciplinary research through its flexible, shared classroom and research spaces. A place for education, research and treatment, the Rinker campus boasts the latest high-tech learning and research tools.

Interactive Campus Map

Chapman University is proud to introduce our interactive campus map and webpage www.chapman.edu/about/maps-directions. This comprehensive resource will help get you to Chapman University and guide you around campus once you’re here. Included on the map are University buildings, department and school locations, parking and dining options, emergency locations, and even bathrooms and ATMs. Built around the Google Maps platform, this resource syncs with your phone’s Google Map app for ease of use. We encourage you to use the interactive campus map and webpage www.chapman.edu/about/maps-directions to find the accessibility of campus locations.

Lactation Stations

Chapman University recognizes the importance of helping nursing parents feel welcome on campus and wants to ensure they have the resources they need to balance work, family, and education. The Lactation Stations provide a secure, private, restful, and sanitary environment for breastfeeding or pumping. All Lactation Stations within the University community are equipped with a comfortable chair, table, electrical outlets, and refrigeration. Below you will find information on locations, logistics, and support.

Lactation Stations are as follows:

*Lactation suites are open Monday-Sunday from 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.. Should you require access outside of these hours please contact the below support resources.

LOGISTICS

• Reservations are not required for use of University lactation suites.
• The rooms are managed by the Office of Human Resources and maintained by Aramark Services.
• All rooms are equipped with proper seating, lighting, tables, refrigeration, and the ability to lock doors.
• Please bring your own accessories when using the Lactation Stations.

SUPPORT

Support requests for access to the lactation suites should be directed to the University’s Wellness and Leaves Administrator or Equal Opportunity and Diversity Officer. They are available to provide any additional information about the locations, amenities, and the protocol for obtaining keycard access to the Palm and Law School Lactation Suites. Reservations are not required for suite usage.

Chapman University is committed to providing an environment that is free of any form of harassment and discrimination based on all classifications protected by law, including pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, so that all members of the community are treated at all times with dignity and respect. To report any incidents of harassment or discrimination, please contact:

Non-Gender-Identified Restrooms

Chapman University is deeply committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming campus for all students, staff, faculty, and visitors. All individuals have equal opportunity to use the restroom facilities on campus that best correspond to their own gender identity. Those who do not identify with the gender binary may determine whichever facility is the most appropriate and most comfortable for them. No individual is required to provide any documentation of their gender identity in order to access any facility corresponding to their own gender identity.

Chapman University is actively working toward increasing the number of non-gender-identified restroom facilities on campus. View the interactive map of all single-stall and non-gender-identified restrooms on campus at www.chapman.edu/about/maps-directions. For more information read about the University’s Gender-Inclusive Policies at www.chapman.edu/title-ix, the University’s diversity and inclusion efforts at www.chapman.edu/diversity, and the University’s work with Title IX at www.chapman.edu/title-ix.

Campus Life

Learning takes place both within and outside of the classroom. Chapman fosters an environment in which it is expected that students will take responsibility for their learning and living. Through its various offices, the staff provides guidance, support, and opportunities for student growth and development. Chapman believes in creating programs and services tailored to the individual needs of students.

Non-Discrimination Statement

Chapman University is committed to providing an environment which is free of any form of harassment and discrimination based upon an individual’s race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status or any other classification protected by law, so that all members of the community are treated at all times with dignity and respect. Therefore, it is the University’s policy to prohibit all forms of such harassment or discrimination among University faculty, students, staff, and administration. Chapman University’s Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Prevention Policy as its Policy on Sexual Harassment Prohibited by Title IX for its faculty and staff is available for review online. The University’s Student Policy on Sexual Harassment Prohibited by Title IX, the Student Policy on Sexual Harassment Prohibited by Senate Bill 493, and the Student Conduct Code are also available online.

Endowed Chairs

Student and faculty research and programmatic opportunities are supported by the following endowments:

• A. Gary Anderson Chair in Economic Analysis
• George L. Argyros Endowed Chair in Finance and Economics
• Bertea Family Chair in Music
• Donley and Marjorie Bolinger Chair in Real Estate, Land Use and Environmental Law
• Donald Bren Distinguished Presidential Chair in Mathematics
• George H.W. Bush Chair in International Business
• James H. Cavanaugh Endowed Chair in Presidential Studies
• Irvin C. and Edy Chapman Dean of the Wallace All Faiths Chapel Chair
• Hugh and Hazel Darling Law Librarian Chair
• Delp-Wilkinson Chair in Peace Studies
• James L. and Lynne Pierson Doti Chair in Economics
• Doti-Spogli Chair in Free Enterprise 
• Rebecca and William Dunn Distinguished Chair in Honor of Vernon L. Smith, Ph.D.
• Dr. Royal J. and Dr. Eva N. Dye Chair of Religion and Missions
• Fletcher Jones Chair in International Business and Economics
• William P. Foley, II Chair in Corporate Law and Taxation
• Paul Frizler Chair in Communication Studies
• Jacqueline M. Glass Chair in Theatre and Music
• Jerrold A. Glass Chair in Accounting and Economics
• Belle Griset Chair in Religious Studies
• Warren D. Hancock Chair in Natural Sciences
• Jack H. and Paula Hassinger Chair in Education
• Doy and Dee Henley Chair and Distinguished Professor of Jurisprudence
• Doy B. Henley Chair of American Presidential Studies
• C. Larry Hoag Chair in Real Estate
• R. C. Hoiles Chair in Business Ethics and Free Enterprise
• Donna and David Janes Chair in Experimental Economics
• Donald P. Kennedy Endowed Chair in Economics and Law
• Donald P. Kennedy Chair in Law
• Kloppenburg-Stead Chair in Servant Leadership
• Marion Knott Filmmaker-in-Residence Endowed Chair
• Ralph W. Leatherby Chair in Entrepreneurship
• Robert and Norma Lineberger Endowed Chair in Music
• Twyla Reed Martin Dean’s Chair in Film and Media Arts
• Sebastian Paul and Marybelle Musco Endowed Chair in Italian Studies
• Ralph and Sue Stern Chair in Holocaust Education
• Robert J. and Carolyn Waltos, Jr. Chair in the Argyros School of Business and Economics
• Donald S. and Leonora N. Will Endowed Chair in Peace Studies

Endowed Professorships

Student and faculty research and programmatic opportunities are supported by the following endowments:

• Donna Ford Attallah Endowed Professorship in Teacher Education
• Donald R. Booth Professorship in Economics in Honor of Larry Parlett and in Memory of Alan Thompson
• Burra Executive Professor of Accounting
• Irving and Nancy Chase Endowed Professorship in Holocaust and Jewish History
• Jim Farley Professorship in Natural Philosophy
• Fletcher Jones Foundation Practice-Ready Professors of Law
• Fletcher Jones Foundation Professorship in Computational Physics
• Gray Family Professorship in Law
• William Hall Visiting Professorship in Music
• Gavin Herbert Endowed Professor of Pharmacy
• Roger C. Hobbs Endowed Professorship in Urban Studies
• Parker S. Kennedy Professorship in Law
• John Koshak Visiting Professorship in Music
• Lincoln Club Professorship
• Hazel Peck Marshall and Dr. Sam Lewis Campbell Professorship in Behavioral Sciences
• Martha Masters ‘37 Professorship in Art
• Foster G. and Mary McGaw Professorship in Behavioral Sciences
• Foster G. and Mary McGaw Professorship in Mathematical Sciences
• The Franco Pattarino Endowed Professorship of Journalism
• Ronald D. Rotunda Distinguished Professor in Jurisprudence
• Henry Salvatori Professorship of American Values and Traditions
• Henry Salvatori Professorship in Law and Community Service
• David and Sandra Stone Professorship in Economics
• The Anna Maria Tedeshi Endowed Professorship of Journalism
• Bernardo Telesio Endowed Professorship in Italian Studies
• Henri Temianka Endowed Professorship in Music
• Warren and Doris Uehlinger Endowed Professorship in Business Management
• Hua-Cheng Wang-Fradkin Professorship in Scholarly Excellence
• Leon and Sophie Weinstein Professorship in Holocaust History
• Betty L. Hutton Williams Endowed Professorship in International Economic Law
• Frank L. Williams, Jr. Endowed Professorship in Criminal Law

Student Affairs Policies

Student Conduct Code

Chapman University expects that all students adhere to the policies that govern student behavior outlined in the Student Conduct Code. The University is specifically concerned when individual student and organizational behavior directly interfere with the University’s primary educational objectives and functions or the rights and safety of others. Chapman believes that the conduct process has a role in developing a sense of responsibility and accountability in students, while being life preparatory. To that end, the University uses education and counseling, in addition to formal conduct proceedings to bring about these outcomes. Every Chapman student is presumed to have sufficient maturity, intelligence, and concern for the rights of others and the rights of the institution to help maintain established standards of the academic community. When a student or organization’s behavior demonstrates otherwise, the University will consider conduct proceedings as deemed necessary. For details regarding institutional policies governing student conduct or the disciplinary process, please visit the Chapman University Student Conduct Code webpage at www.chapman.edu/student-conduct, or the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students webpage at www.chapman.edu/dean-of-students.

Firearms and Fireworks

The possession or use of firearms, fireworks, or other explosives is prohibited on campus and may be grounds for immediate dismissal.

Freedom of Speech and Expression

Freedom of speech and expression are especially important values within an academic community. Thus, with few exceptions, all topics are appropriate for discussion and debate within the framework of academic inquiry and within the context of the University’s pedagogical interests. Students and student organizations are free to examine and discuss all questions of interest to them and to express opinions publicly and privately. Students are free to support causes by orderly means, which do not disrupt the regular and essential operation of the institution. Within these broad parameters, the University may restrict expression that violates the law, is disruptive in the contexts of time, place or manner, constitutes a genuine threat or harassment against another person or persons, invades privacy or confidentiality interests, is otherwise directly incompatible with the functioning of the University, or interferes with the rights of others to engage in free expression. In their public expressions or demonstrations, students or student organizations speak only for themselves and may not speak on behalf of the institution. For more information on the University’s statement on free speech visit Chapman University Statement on Free Speech at www.chapman.edu/statement-on-free-speech.

Grievance Procedures

Graduate students who have concerns about campus academic policies, procedures, other policies, treatment by faculty or other campus employees or concerns about college operations are encouraged to bring those concerns or complaints to the Vice Provost for Graduate Education.

For academic matters, the process normally begins with the faculty member involved. Appeals typically go to the department chair, the academic dean, the Graduate Academic Council, and then the Vice Provost for Graduate Education (who will act on the matter or refer it to the Provost). For non-academic matters (issues related to departments such as residence life, facilities management, business office, etc.), students should first discuss the matter with the head of the appropriate department with appeals to the appropriate supervisor. Students unsure of whom to contact should consult with the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students for appropriate referral.

Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Prevention

Chapman University is committed to providing an environment which is free from any form of harassment and discrimination based upon an individual’s race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, sex, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable state or federal law, so that all members of the community are treated at all times with dignity and respect. The University is also committed to providing an environment which is free of sexual harassment in any form. Therefore, it is the University’s policy to prohibit all forms of such harassment or discrimination among University faculty, students, staff, and administrators. Independent contractors and other third parties at the University are also expected to conform their conduct to the University’s Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Prevention Policy. The University’s ability to take action against third parties may be limited and is determined by their context of the prohibited conduct and the nature of the relationship to the parties and the University.

View the entire copy of Chapman University’s Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Prevention Policy on the University’s Equal Opportunity Office webpage www.chapman.edu/faculty-staff/human-resources/eodo.

The University’s administrative, faculty, staff, and students are each responsible for creating and maintaining an environment conducive to work, study, and learning and for cooperating with University officials who investigate allegations of policy violations. It is the duty of every member of the faculty, staff, and administration to assure compliance with the policy by promptly reporting allegations of the policy violations to the University’s Equal Opportunity Office. Students are also strongly encouraged to report any alleged violations of this policy and may do so by reporting the violation to the Equal Opportunity Officer.

In keeping with its policies, Chapman University not only fully complies with all local, state, and federal laws concerning harassment and discrimination, but also provided a means to assure fair treatment to any student, employee, or member of the University community who believes the policy prohibiting harassment, discrimination, and sexual harassment has been violated. For further information concerning Chapman University’s Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Prevention Policy, please contact the University’s Director of Equal Opportunity by email at aroberson@chapman.edu or phone at (714) 997-6847.

Hazing and Disruptive Conduct

Hazing or other activities that interfere with the normal operation of the University or infringe on the safety of other members of the University community including obstructing an academic class or lecture, administrative support function or University event or business is prohibited. Additionally, failure to comply with the requests of University officials may result in a referral to student conduct. For additional information, please see the Student Conduct Code above.

Local, State and Federal Laws

Students attending Chapman are subject to local, state, and federal laws. When studying outside of the United States as a student of Chapman, they are subject to the laws of the applicable foreign jurisdiction(s). Chapman reserves the right to impose institutional sanctions for violations of public laws, even when such violations occur off University property. Students may also be subject to civil and/or criminal charges for offenses on Chapman property, if such offenses are in violation of local, state or federal laws, in addition to any accountability that they may face under the Student Conduct Code or other University policies.

Rights and Privacy Act/Confidentiality of Educational Records

Chapman’s policy regarding confidentiality is in keeping with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which affords students certain rights with respect to their education records, a summary of which follows:

• The right to inspect and review the student’s own education records within 45 days of the day Chapman University receives a request for access.
• The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate.
• The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records.
• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failure by Chapman University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by Chapman University in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position (including law enforcement personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom Chapman University has contracted to serve as its agent or to provide services in support of its operation (such as an attorney, auditor, collection agent, degree conferral & transcript processing agent, document managing agent, and placement sites for an internship or similar student work/study opportunities); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks; consultants, volunteers or other outside parties to whom Chapman University has outsourced institutional services or functions that it would otherwise use employees to perform.  A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

As allowed within FERPA guidelines, Chapman University may disclose education records without consent to officials of another school, upon request, in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

At its discretion, Chapman University may provide public directory information in accordance with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Directory information is defined as information that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Students may withhold directory information by notifying the University Registrar in writing.

A complete text of Chapman’s annual notification to students of their rights under FERPA is contained on the Office of the University Registrar’s webpage at www.chapman.edu/registrar and www.chapman.edu/ferpa.

Violence

Per the Student Conduct Code, any form of violence is forbidden and may result in immediate suspension from the campus and upon appropriate determination, expulsion from Chapman University.