Chowan University is a Christian University located in northeastern North Carolina with approximately 800 students from over 28 states and 14 different countries. Our faculty provide caring, individualized attention to the students they advise and instruct.

Chowan is more than a school. It’s more than a place to learn and grow. We are a community. Being at Chowan is about being a part of something much larger and more meaningful than yourself — it’s a place where we are all able to share more, serve more, and do more with all that we have been called to be.

We’re introducing a whole new approach to your academic experience. We’ll guide you to master today’s most in-demand employment skills. Our supportive community will equip you with career planning, coaching, and networking. Best of all, your experience will be built on a strong spiritual foundation.

Chowan is committed to affordable higher education access and awards over $30 million in financial aid each year. Chowan features more than 45 clubs, organizations, and honor societies. Chowan competes in 21 NCAA Division II co-educational sports and is a member of Conference Carolinas. 

Nestled in the historic town of Murfreesboro, along the Inner Banks of North Carolina, Chowan is easily accessible from metropolitan areas such as Hampton Roads, VA, Raleigh, NC, and Washington, DC. Centrally located to everything from shopping, beaches, amusement parks, and nature preserves, Chowan provides a unique balance of academics, athletics, activities, and adventure.

We strongly encourage all students and their families to visit campus throughout the admissions process. We offer several visit options for families to choose from. You can schedule a campus visit here.

About Chowan University

Chowan University, grounded in its Christian faith, has been transforming the lives of students of promise for over 174 years. A Christian liberal arts university founded in 1848, Chowan is located in the Historic Inner Banks community of Murfreesboro in northeastern North Carolina. The university is in close proximity to the Outer Banks and Hampton Roads, Virginia. Chowan's park-like campus features more than 400 acres, including Lake Vann, the beloved "Squirrel Park," and the original McDowell Columns Hall, erected in 1851 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Chowan offers over 60 undergraduate academic programs through the School of Undergraduate Studies. Master's degrees are awarded through the School of Graduate Studies. The Music Department is also individually accredited by NASM. An NCAA Division II member institution, Chowan offers 21 varsity programs and two developmental teams, baseball and men’s basketball.  Twenty programs compete in Conference Carolinas and one in the Gulf South.

Mission Statement

Chowan University, grounded in its Christian faith, transforms the lives of students of promise.