Christopher Newport University
CNU
Newport News, Virginia 23606-3072
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business
Christopher Newport University is a public institution in Newport News with particular strength in business and biology. With an average SAT of 1207, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 4.4K undergraduates with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
75% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $60,509 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $22,197.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Capital Athletic
History & Fun Facts
- •The college was founded as an extension of the College of William Mary and offered extension courses that had already been available in the area for some time.
- •In 1964, the college was moved to its current location, a 75-acre (300,000 m) tract of land seized by the city via eminent domain.
- •In 1971, CNC became a four-year college; however, it remained an extension of William Mary until 1977 when it became an autonomous four-year institution.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1207
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
64.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
3.2%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$19,500
Programs (27)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
83%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
35
Peer Average
37
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from VA state average + city premium