Chapman University
Orange, CA, USA

Reviews

Chapman University

theCollegeKid

a current student here
27 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Chapman University is an up-and-coming school, as seen through not only the expansion of campus facilities but the growth in student resources. Chapman will continue to grow for the simple reason that people with not just higher SAT scores but higher ambitions are applying to and choosing to attend Chapman. At this school you will find the perfect balance of a challenging workload and a fun social life.
Tips for prospective students
Don't be scared away by the private school tuition. Chapman has SO much money to give away through scholarships, especially if you performed well in high school and on SATs. Also, if possible check out the campus! It's true that different schools have different feels, and you'll want to see for yourself if Chapman can be your new home.
Academic Rigor
Our academic performance is constantly compared to schools with big names, and I'm proud to say that our academics are just as impressive as other well-known schools like USC! The top places to study here are at the business school or the film school.
Dorm Life
Every room has its own bathroom! Not to mention the dorms are kept nice and clean by the cleaning staff. The only downside is that we have a few dorm halls that are more outdated than the newer buildings. Where ever you live on campus though, you will enjoy college life and its immense amount of freedom.
Food and Dining
Our dining hall has an Asian station (sushi everyday!), European station, American station, Panini/Salad bar, desert station, you name it. There is only one dining hall, but this is sufficient given the size of the school. There are also places on campus that are included in the meal plan (Jamba Juice, Einstein Bagels, WOW wings, library cafe, another cafe in the business school....). Also, Henley Basement is open from 8pm late into the night for midnight snacks. You will not go hungry.
What to do for fun
You are in ORANGE COUNTY. There is an infinite amount of things to do for fun. Being a kid in Disneyland, napping at Newport Beach, clubbing in West Hollywood, partying in Los Angeles, partying at school, partying at USC/UCLA, or the best thing to do in college--NAP WHENEVER YOU WANT.
Bang for the buck
Yes, it's a private school so it's expensive. But again, Chapman gives away so much in scholarships. Also, as a student you will be well pampered. As you walk through campus you will be surrounded by beautiful architecture, landscape, fountains, and marble. As you sit through lecture, you will notice we have some of the most interesting and intellectual professors. As you wonder about your future, you will have access to almost an unlimited supply of resources concerning internships and job opportunities. How much you get out of your tuition depends on how much involvement you initiate yourself.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Undie Run is a semi-annual tradition that takes place on the Wednesday night of finals week. Basically, you wear your underwear and run around school and the main street of the city of Orange. Sounds ridiculous, but it's actually a LOT of fun. Plus, Chapman students are notoriously very attractive so...
Great for these types of students
If you ever visit campus, you will notice that a lot of people are very stylish and attractive. Don't let this stain your impression of the intelligence of Chapman kids. Some kids don't seem to ever study and smoke weed in their bathroom everyday(but still manage a 3.9) and other kids seem to enjoy going crazy only every other weekend and studying until past midnight. Whatever/whoever you are or want to be, you will find your niche at Chapman.
Clubs and Activities
Apply to the Honors Program!! Chapman also has a ton of clubs and activities, so if you were involved in something in high school, chances are you could continue your involvement here at Chapman!
Greek Life
Greek life is a pretty big thing on campus. If you're looking to party it up and become friends with tons of people, I recommend joining! But it's not for everyone. I, for instance, didn't join because although I love to have fun nights out, I cannot stand being social all of the time. God forbid I ever have to small talk more than I did at Freshman Orientation (which is fun by the way, and where you will meet a lot of people).
Campus Safety
Chapman's campus is safe, no doubt about it. We have this mini army of Public Safety officers who make sure you're not drunk in public, or smoking weed by the volleyball courts. If you drive in the wrong direction for a while away from Chapman, you will notice things get a little sketchy. But the city of Orange overall is the chillest place ever.

Lindsay from Seattle, WA

a current student here
18 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The classes are extremely challenging but the professors are wonderful in the fact that they keep the students engaged and excited about the course and subject matter. I love my professors and everything that I am learning
Am enjoying being here
Chapman offers something to suit each individual's interests and hobbies. The people are amazing, and one can attain just about anything they are looking for on and off campus.
Tips for prospective students
Go into life at Chapman with excitement and be prepared to jump right into the many things it has to offer. My experience has been so successful because I had a hunger to experience and take advantage all of Chapman's many opportunities to learn and expand myself. Be ready to take it head on :)
Great for these types of students
There isn't a student who wouldn't benefit from Chapman. Specifically, however, I would say the types of students that would succeed the most at this University would be: academically motivated, social, eager, and involved

Erin from Woodland Hills, CA

a current student here
12 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am learning about subjects that were unclear for me in the past, and being able to expand my knowledge on subjects that are interesting and not commonly discussed is what someone should look for in a college.
Am enjoying being here
Home cooking will be missed, but the dining facility is unbelievable. It is unreal for a college. The dorms are spacious and comfortable.
Bang for the buck
Paying top dollar for top education.
Tips for prospective students
Choose a school that is an appropriate size for you. If you want a major football school, look into that. If you want a school with a large amount of people, look into that. If there are certain clubs or teams you are interested in, really see what the school has to offer. If you like smaller classrooms with a good teacher-to-student relationship, nice facilities, good relationships with peers and professors, then you will love Chapman.
Great for these types of students
Chapman is great for Film students, Law students, Business students, Actors, and anyone seeking a good future.

Michael from San Diego, CA

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Chapman is a small tight-knit university with a lot of spirit. If you are serious about your education, like small classrooms, want to get involved, and want to know your professors, this is hands-down the place to attend. Beautiful weather and a wonderful community.
Tips for prospective students
Apply Early!! Chapman has a lot of scholarship money to give out and you have a better chance to receive it the earlier you apply. Also, visit the school. Take the daily tour, meet the director/professors in your field of interest, and ask questions.
Academic Rigor
Chapman is not easy. The liberal arts ideals challenges students to take a variety of classes not directly tied to their major. These classes, however, are interesting and allow one to meet explore new areas of focus. Chapman's professors are also very personable and easy to access.
Dorm Life
Since Chapman's recently explosion of applicatns, only Freshmen and Sophomores can live on campus. Freshmen dorm placement depends on the student's interest as Chapman likes to put students with similar interest together. North Morlan is the only freshmen dorm with two roommates per room. Every other freshmen dorm is three per room.
Food and Dining
The food available at the Caf is overall quite good. You use a swipe to get into the Caf and then it is all you can eat. I helped run a food blog named NomsorNot.com which reviewed the food available at Chapman during the 11-12 school year.
What to do for fun
Go to Disneyland! We got an annual pass an went over 50 times our freshmen year. Park in the Disneyland parking lot and get three hours of free parking. Download the Disneyland Wait Time app on your phone to know when the park is empty.
Bang for the buck
On paper, Chapman seems to be quite expensive. However, with more than 85% of students receiving a 20K scholarship, Chapman is actually cheaper than UCLA. The personal attention from the professors and small class size (less than 30 students) cannot be matched by comparable schools.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The last Wednesday of Finals week, the students get together for the annual Undie Run. As the name implies, everyone strips down to their underwear and run down the street to downtown Orange and back. Over 1,000+ students participate.
Great for these types of students
All types of students. All the students at Chapman are fun, personable, and happy to be there. If your looking for a major athletic college, however, you might want to look elsewhere.
Clubs and Activities
Chapman has over 80 student-run clubs on campus. If none of them suite your fancy, it's quite easy to start one and receive funding for it (~$200 per semester). Chapman really promotes students getting involved with the community and with their peers.
Greek Life
Greek life runs most of the night time social scene at Chapman. Chapman, however, is not a big time party school. Kickbacks are more common. All frats allow non-members to party with them. You just have to know where the party is.
Campus Safety
Public Safety is everywhere, all the time. I have never felt unsafe on campus.

Hillary from CA

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have never felt so engaged and been challenged to this amount. Classes are hard, but they make me really want to study and do well in the class. The professors are really there to help you and I have found that if you go talk to them and ask them questions, they will answer them and it really helps.
Am enjoying being here
It is such a great environment and I have made so many friends that I know will be lifelong friends. The school is in a great location and close to so many different places... Disneyland, the beach, the mountains, the city... it's all there!
Bang for the buck
I know that tuition and living expenses are pricey and up there, but it is so worth it. Just be sure to really make it worth your money. Study and go to class! Don't take your teacher having no attendance policy as an excuse to not go to class. If you go to class and take up every opportunity they offer, it is worth every penny.
Tips for prospective students
Be sure to get to know as many students as you can during orientation week. Also important to talk to professors and get to know them, because they will respond better when you are struggling or need a letter of recommendation later down the road.
Great for these types of students
I see so many different people on campus, that I don't know if there is a big stereotype. I was afraid that being in Orange County, it was going to be full of a bunch of uber-rich Southern California kids, but it really isn't. It's just a great place to meet a bunch of different students.

Jennie from Danville, CA

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I've had such a great time with all my professors. They're all very personable and willing to talk to you. I lucked out with classmates as well, almost all of whom actually wanted to be in the class. I love it here.
Am enjoying being here
Aside from academics, the people are incredibly friendly. Even though I'm an art major, I have friends in almost every section of the school. That's just how the campus is set up. It's also a relatively small school, so chances are you'll see at least three people you know on the way to and from class. A very nice and welcoming environment.
Bang for the buck
Very VERY expensive, but also very generous with scholarships. And definitely worth it.
Tips for prospective students
Don't let the price tag intimidate you. And if you're looking for a large-school atmosphere or a party school, you may want to rethink Chapman.
Great for these types of students
Anyone going into the arts or humanities.

Alex from CA

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Chapman is filled with opportunities and will help you succeed.

Chapman has a place for everyone.

It is up to the student to get what they want out of their time at Chapman.

Tips for prospective students
Plan your schedule wisely. Choose courses that truly interest you, especially for general ed. Chapman offers many interesting courses. Also, take advantage of interterm. It is fun, relaxed, and a great time to get some credits done. Get involved on campus or in greek life. Try your best to meet as many different people as you can and expand our horizons.
Academic Rigor
The courses offered at Chapman are incredible. They have some of the best professors and amazing course options. The small class sizes presents opportunities for individual attention. They have amazing academic programs, including the Dodge College of Film and Media.
Dorm Life
The dorms are very nice and updated. Most of the buildings are equal, but they each have their ups and downs. Pralle and Henley are often preferred because of their location and atmosphere. Morlan is older and has a completely different feel. Glass is also nice, but further. There is a very nice and convenient dorm pool and a jacuzzi is near by.
Food and Dining
The cafeteria seems really good at first, but it gets old very, very fast. The food on the weekends and during the interterm session is below average. Other than the cafeteria, there is Einsteins Bagels, Jamba Juice, Jazzmans (Sandwiches, coffee, bakery), and WOW. These food options are not the best, but great to change it up from cafeteria food. You can use your panther bucks at these places. I suggest getting more panther bucks than meal swipes. The food surrounding the campus is amazing. There are many great places to eat and discover in the community around.
What to do for fun
Chapman holds many fun events throughout the year, including movies on the lawn, midnight breakfast, and many more student involvement activities.

Outside of school, there is a pretty large social scene. The community around is also very beautiful and full of things to do. The school is close to many things, including Disneyland, the beach, hiking, and much more.
Bang for the buck
Chapman is VERY expensive, but they offer many scholarships. Also, your money is put towards amazing facilities, opportunities, and faculty. You can get what you want out of your tuition. I suggest you take advantage of the services and opportunities provided by the school, in order to get your money's worth.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
A famous freshman tradition is fountain hoping. This is when students go to each of the beautiful on campus fountains at night and swim in each. Everyone must experience fountain hoping at some point in their time at Chapman.
Great for these types of students
The school is somewhat diverse, but it is a liberal arts school. It is great for students who enjoy this atmosphere. There is a place for everyone at the school and everyone is well accepted.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many clubs and ways to get involved on campus. The opportunities will not find you thought. You need to attend club week and other events to become involved. Take advantage because if Chapman has anything it is great opportunities.
Greek Life
Greek life is pretty big now. It is not essential to be greek to have a social life, but I found that it truly helps. Recruitment as a freshman is a little easier, but there are perks of waiting and getting a lay of the land before going into the greek system. There is a wide variety of fraternities and sororities. Greek events are very exciting on campus, including Skit and Greek Week.
Campus Safety
The campus is pretty safe. The surrounding areas are not the nicest always, but campus public safety is very careful and always there to help.

JACQUELINE from Corona, CA

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Academic Rigor
I have learned more about myself through the classes I take and discovering my beliefs and defining myself through my strengths. Although I have switched my major from Biology to Psychology, I ultimately learned that I will have more opportunities because I searched for what I really love and who I am, and what I see my future to be as.
Am enjoying being here
The campus is gorgeous! You can sit anywhere and feel peaceful. The campus isn't overcrowded and I have met some fabulous people since I have been at Chapman. There are a lot of things to do outside of the classroom and there are plenty of fun spots to do things such as Disneyland, Angels Stadium and the Honda Center.
Bang for the buck
Chapman is costly, but hunt for scholarships (especially through Cappex!) and find as much financial aid as you can. For the cost though, you do get a quality education and experiences such as lectures with famous scholars, resources that are free, and you have a classroom ratio of 20:1. You also can get involved with so much throughout the year that will really help you succeed at Chapman such as clubs, sororities, fraternities, academic involvement, study abroad and so much more!
Tips for prospective students
Don't worry if you don't know what your major is or if you switch. The decision will be worth it because it means you are more certain of your choice. Also, take advantage of the free resources such as the Academic Advising Center and Career Center. They are very helpful!
And if you can, stop by for a visit! The Old Towne Orange Circle is very popular for students and is only a few steps away, full of food, antique shops, and historic places to visit!
And take advantage of Study Abroad!
Great for these types of students
It is great if you love Southern California, are interested in Film, Business, Marketing/Advertising, Psychology, Performing Arts, Athletic Training and International Studies. Our Science department is steadily growing, especially in Research and medical professions. Also, if you are from out of the country, it is a great school for international students since we offer several languages and programs for study abroad.

Katie from Nevada

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
You will learn as much as the effort you put into your classes.
Am enjoying being here
It's an amazing campus and only 20 minutes from Newport Beach!
Tips for prospective students
Get involved! A.S plans tons of events for the students, and the sports games are fun if you show your spirit. And while most students complain about dorms, Chapman's dorms are nice, and the dorm life experience is a must. Make an effort to meet the other people in your hall. And aside from social life, of course prepare to focus in your academics as well.

Sara from Napa, CA

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
if you want a beautiful campus, great small-town community feel just minutes away from some of the greatest los angeles area landmarks (including disneyland!), plus a strong academic community, this is the school for you. it has a fantastic variety of on-campus eateries, a four-story library, and a giant stone fountain in the middle of campus. plus, you can't beat this weather!
Tips for prospective students
chapman is not intimidating in the least, except for maybe the arts programs, which are fantastic but rigorous. if you are an arts student, make sure you are well-prepared for your audition/interview and have double-checked your portfolio. also, interviews are not necessary but i highly recommend having one to get your foot in the door.
Academic Rigor
the first year is just like high school, but with a more relaxed schedule. it does get harder and you will have to study, but the work is surprisingly rewarding. the professors are there to help you!
Dorm Life
our resident advisers (ras) work so hard to keep the resident students busy! there is always something to do. however, the walls are very thin and people like to go screaming down the hallways at night. oh, and sometimes the henley lobby smells like moldy bread and yogurt, but that's incidental. the basement is awesome though. there are pool tables and a gym and music practice rooms right downstairs from your room. it's pretty neat, actually.
Food and Dining
beware of cafeteria food! it's usually good...except on weekends and during interterm. there is a huge variety of food in the caf; every night there's something asian, italian, greek, and of course there are pizza and burgers and soup too. on-campus we have jazzman's cyber cafe, which has coffee easily comparable to starbuck's or peet's. we also have jamba juice, einstein bros. bagels, world of wings, and a little snack shop in the library for all those late-night studiers.
What to do for fun
go to concerts and plays! play in the fountains! go to disneyland!!! there really are boundless opportunities. events around campus are sent out every week in an email newsletter, so you have no excuse to be bored.
Bang for the buck
it's a little pricey, but the school gives out more money than the normal person can imagine for scholarships. it's well worth applying even if you think you won't be able to afford it. you'll be surprised.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
go to the beckman hall terrace, up on the third floor. it has a great view of the piazza.
Great for these types of students
arts (music, theater, dance, and especially film) students will love this place. it is also widely acclaimed for the business program.
Clubs and Activities
there's something for everyone...really! music clubs, cooking clubs, social work clubs, even religious clubs. there's even a club that puts on rocky horror picture show every year, which i've heard is...interesting.
Campus Safety
if you need anything, anything at all, call public safety. while not always punctual, they do keep us safe and happy.