---
title: Chapman University — PickACampus
description: Learn about Chapman University in Orange, CA, including its 65% acceptance rate, 82% graduation rate, and $58,080 median starting salary.
url: https://pickacampus.com/college/215
last_updated: 2026-06-03
---

# Chapman University

Chapman University is a private institution located in an urban setting in Orange, California, with a total enrollment of 7,478 students. The university maintains a 12:1 student-faculty ratio and reports a 65% acceptance rate with an 82% graduation rate. Students enter with an average SAT score of 1357 or an ACT score of 29.

## Overview
- Location: Orange, CA
- Type: Private
- Setting: urban
- Total enrollment: 7,478

## Admissions
- Acceptance rate: 65%
- Average SAT: 1,357
- Average ACT: 29
- Average GPA: 3.70

## Cost
- In-state tuition: $64,984
- Out-of-state tuition: $64,984
- Room and board: $17,814
- Fees: $348
- Average financial aid: $28,000
- Average student debt at graduation: $20,500

## Outcomes
- 6-year graduation rate: 82%
- 4-year graduation rate: 71%
- Freshman retention: 91%
- Employment rate: 84%
- Average starting salary: $58,080

## Academics
- Student-faculty ratio: 12:1
- Average class size: 20
- Classes under 20 students: 60%

## Notable
["Chapman University's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts is consistently ranked among the top film schools nationally.","The university boasts a beautiful, Spanish Colonial Revival-style campus in the heart of Orange, California.","Chapman is home to the Hilbert Museum of California Art, featuring a significant collection of California Scene paintings.","The university has a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and personalized learning with small class sizes."]

## Traditions
[{"name":"The Chapman University Tree Lighting","description":"A festive annual event kicking off the holiday season with carols and hot cocoa."},{"name":"Chapman Celebrates","description":"An annual gala and fundraiser supporting student scholarships and academic programs."},{"name":"Founders Day","description":"A celebration of the university's history and founding principles, often with a special speaker."},{"name":"The Dodge College Film Festival","description":"Showcases student films, attracting industry professionals and offering networking opportunities."}]

## Notable alumni
[{"name":"Kathryn Bigelow","description":"Academy Award-winning director of 'The Hurt Locker' and 'Zero Dark Thirty'."},{"name":"Justin Simien","description":"Creator and director of the Netflix series 'Dear White People'."},{"name":"Matt Duffer","description":"Co-creator, executive producer, and director of 'Stranger Things'."},{"name":"Ross Duffer","description":"Co-creator, executive producer, and director of 'Stranger Things'."},{"name":"Emile Hirsch","description":"Actor known for roles in 'Into the Wild' and 'Alpha Dog'."}]

## Common questions

Q: What is Chapman University's acceptance rate?
A: Chapman University's acceptance rate is 65%.

Q: How much does Chapman University cost?
A: Tuition at Chapman University is $64,984 per year, before room and board and fees.

Q: Where is Chapman University located?
A: Chapman University is located in Orange, CA.

Q: What SAT score do you need for Chapman University?
A: The average SAT score at Chapman University is 1,357.

Q: What is the graduation rate at Chapman University?
A: Chapman University has a 6-year graduation rate of 82%.

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