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Christopher Newport University

Newport News, VA Public ยท Urban cnu.edu
Accept Rate
87.96%
Grad Rate
75.6%
Enrollment
4,402
Avg SAT
1207
Tuition
$16,351
Median Salary
$60,509
Overall Grade
C
B
Academics
B
Value
C
Admissions
C+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Christopher Newport University feels like a close-knit, spirited community where students are genuinely engaged and supported. The beautiful, Collegiate Gothic campus fosters a sense of pride and tradition, creating an environment that is both academically focused and warmly collaborative.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

87.96%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 120775th Pctl
11001300
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2775th Pctl
2329
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your leadership experience and community involvement in your application, as CNU values engaged citizens. Ensure your essay reflects how you would contribute to the campus's unique culture of service and tradition, not just your academic achievements.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1207
40080012001600
School range: 1100โ€“1300

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

CNU is renowned for its personalized education within the personalized learning program, emphasizing leadership and public service. The university offers strong programs in business, sciences, and communications with accessible faculty who prioritize undergraduate teaching and mentorship.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
17.2%
Biology & Biomedical
14.8%
Psychology
13.7%
Social Sciences
11.2%
Computer Science
9%
Communications
7.6%
Visual & Performing Arts
4.8%
History
4.1%
Engineering
3.6%
English & Literature
3.4%
Physical Sciences
2.6%
Mathematics & Statistics
2.4%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

75.6%
Graduation Rate
82.8%
Retention Rate
4,402
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$16,351
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$22,197
After financial aid
Total Cost
$32,242
Cost of attendance/year
14.6%
Receive Pell Grants
36.5%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Newport News

Students enjoy Newport News' extensive park system, including the iconic Mariners' Museum and easy access to nearby Virginia Beach. The campus itself is the social hub, with numerous student organizations, Division III athletics, and traditions like the Christopher Newport Leadership Conference providing regular activities.

Local Rent Check

$1,287 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Newport News
Explore Newport News

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$65,404
$0Est. 4 Years: $65,404

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($60,509):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

CNU maintains a safe, well-lit campus with a dedicated police force and strong emergency notification systems. While Newport News has typical urban challenges, the university is located in a relatively secure area with good community-police relations.

Notable Alumni

Elaine L. Chao
Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and Secretary of Labor
Bobby Scott
U.S. Representative for Virginia's 3rd congressional district
L. D. Britt
Award-winning surgeon and medical educator

Frequently Asked Questions

CNU is known for its personalized learning program that emphasizes leadership development, public service, and undergraduate research. The university is also recognized for its beautiful, traditional campus and strong programs in business, communications, and political science.

With an acceptance rate of 87.96%, CNU is moderately selective. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1130-1280, indicating that while it's accessible, applicants should still present a strong academic record.

Campus life is vibrant and community-oriented, with a strong emphasis on student involvement through over 200 clubs and organizations. Students enjoy a traditional residential experience with active Greek life, Division III athletics, and numerous campus traditions that foster school spirit.

Yes, particularly for Virginia residents. With a net price of $22,197 and median 10-year earnings of $60,509, graduates typically see a strong return on investment. The combination of quality education, personalized attention, and career outcomes makes it a valuable choice.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

NASA Langley Research Center Newport News Shipbuilding Sentara Healthcare Hampton Roads Sanitation District Dominion Energy
Smart Start Score
69

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 4,586
  • In-State Tuition $16,351
  • Out-of-State $30,988
  • Zip Code 23606

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 47.8% โ™€ 52.2%

The Money Talk

With a net price of $22,197 and strong in-state tuition value, CNU offers an excellent return on investment, especially for Virginia residents. The 10-year median earnings of $60,509 significantly outpace the average debt, making it a financially sound choice for a quality public education.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $16,351
Housing (12 mo) $15,444
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $38,995
With avg financial aid:
$22,197/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.