Students in a lecture hall listen to a professor

Academics

Where Academic Excellence Meets Real-World Impact

At Christopher Newport, academics are driven by curiosity, connection, and purpose. With more than 90 areas of study, you'll find the right path for your passions. Our dedicated faculty and staff get to know you personally, challenging you with rigorous coursework while providing the support you need to succeed. It’s a community where learning is personal, and your future is built with care and intention.

90%

of faculty hold the highest degree in their field

24:1

average student-to-teacher ratio

94%

of students are employed or in graduate school after commencement

Learn More About CNU's Core Curriculum

Every student at CNU completes a thoughtfully designed core curriculum, a set of courses that spans the arts, sciences, and humanities, along with focused Areas of Study. This broad academic foundation helps you develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills that employers value and that will serve you throughout life. In a rapidly changing world, this well-rounded education is more important than ever. See Course Requirements

Exclusive Academic Opportunities

Push your learning further with signature programs like the President’s Leadership Program (PLP) and the Honors Program. Each offers unique benefits, small seminars, and hands-on learning that prepares you to lead and make a difference in the world.

Discover PLP Explore Honors

Captains Are Ready for Anything

Postgrad Success

CNU graduates are thriving — 94% are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation. Our core curriculum equips students with the versatile skills and adaptable mindset needed to succeed in any career path, proving its lasting value long after Commencement.

See Where Our Graduates Go

Study Abroad with Confidence

Expand your perspective and experience new cultures through CNU’s wide range of study abroad programs. Whether it’s a semester in Spain, research in the UK, or service in South Africa, you’ll gain global insight and lifelong memories.

Plan Your Semester Abroad

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Discover How Academic Centers Impact the Community

CNU’s academic centers serve as hubs for innovation, service, and real-world problem solving. From promoting civic engagement to advancing STEM education, these centers connect classroom learning to community impact locally and beyond.

Academic Centers

Professor John Finn and student showing their social inequality exhibit

Dream Research Opportunities

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Academic Advising All Four Years

From your first semester to your final year, you’ll be guided by expert academic advisors who are deeply invested in your journey. At CNU, advising is personal, designed to help you explore options, stay on track, and make the most of every academic opportunity.

Meet Your Advising Team

An overhead shot of two students studying together at a wooden table in a library. One student is writing by hand, while the other is looking at a laptop screen. The table holds a lamp, headphones, and notebooks. The floor is covered with a blue carpet with a star pattern.

Best-in-Class Faculty

Our faculty are more than scholars, they’re mentors. With advanced degrees, industry expertise, and a true passion for teaching, CNU professors are dedicated to helping you succeed both inside and outside the classroom.