School of Communication

Introduction | Chapman University School of Communication

Established in 1861, Chapman University is a private, coeducational university located in Orange, California and Irvine, California, in the western region of the United States. 

The School of Communication shapes leaders and prepares students for a multitude of career opportunities after graduation. Students typically develop their skills for careers in strategic communication, public opinion, health behavior and communication innovation, via evidence-based research projects, campaigns, academic partnerships and practical applications. 

Faculty at the School of Communication are nationally recognized as the top leaders in their field. Faculty are continually striving to research and innovate and students are encouraged to take part. Dedicated faculty at the School of Communication have received numerous awards and accolades, making the School of Communication one of the best programs in the country. 

The 2020 U.S. News & World Report ranks Chapman University as one of the best colleges in America and in 2019, Chapman University was ranked 5th among master’s-level universities in the Western US.

Key Facts and Overview | Chapman University School of Communication

Created in 2016, the School of Communication has had a significant growth and influence at Chapman University, earning its place as a highly respected institution. The School of Communication offers a M.S. in Health and Strategic Communication and a Ph.D. in Communication. 

The School of Communication is proud to house the Center for Freedom of Expression and Media Integrity, which hosts the Great Debates Series focusing on civil discourse in the workplace and society. 

The Center also focuses on Media Integrity and conducts research led by faculty and students, examining pressing issues facing free speech. The Center for Freedom of Expression hosts speaking engagements welcoming all students at Chapman University  

The Center for Demographics and Policy is a vital organization founded at the Chapman University, School of Communication.

The Center focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explored policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time.

The School of Communication is home to a variety of student organizations including Chapman Radio, Lambda Pi Eta, and the Student Advisory Board.

Majors and Degrees | Chapman University School of Communication

The Chapman University School of Communication is proud to offer the following graduate programs: 

The M.S. in Health and Strategic Communication enables students to study and develop the skills necessary to be an effective communicator in medical settings, health promotion and education, and physical and mental well-being. Students will be influential and essential to the well-being of many different groups including individuals, public audiences, families dealing with health issues, and public health crises. 

The Ph.D. in Communication prepares students to conduct research and teach in academic and professional settings. Students work closely with faculty to hone their teaching skills and develop their own unique area of study. The Ph.D. program offers three Areas of Emphasis, including: Health and Strategic Communication, Interpersonal Communication, and Organizational Communication. 

Networking and internship opportunities are integral to the success of Chapman University graduate students. Students will be connected to influential alumni in Southern California and beyond.

Admissions | Chapman University School of Communication

Students are encouraged to visit the Chapman University Academics Page to view more information about the School of Communication’s admission requirements and application details.  

Prospective students are encouraged to review the graduate application deadlines based on their particular graduate program. Programs that accept applications after the deadline on a space-available basis will be noted. Please visit the Application page to view a particular program application and requirements. 

A non-refundable application fee of $60 will be required through the online application system. Students are required to submit all official transcripts; applications will not be considered complete until all materials are received. Most programs require a minimum of two letters of recommendation. Some programs require a statement of intent with specific information included in your statement. 

According to U.S. News & World Report, Chapman University is #87 (tied) in Best Colleges for Veterans. Veterans are encouraged to meet with the Director of Veterans Affairs during the application process by phone or in-person. Veterans can learn more by visiting the Veterans Resource Center.

Costs and Financial Aid | Chapman University School of Communication

Chapman University offers a variety of financial aid options available to help students invest in their higher education and attain their educational goals. Students can view more information about financial aid and cost of attendance at Chapman’s Graduate Financial Aid. 

Graduate costs and fees vary by college; students can view their particular program on the 2020/2021 Tuition & Fee Information page. 

Within the School of Communication, M.S. and Ph.D. students are eligible to apply for various tuition and financial packages to help defray the cost of tuition, including Graduate Teaching Assistantships, Graduate Course Assistantships, Graduate Research Assistantships, and fellowships.

The Chapman University Harriet S. Salmon Interest Free Loan is an interest free loan awarded through the Office of Financial Aid. For information on eligibility for this type of loan, please contact the Office of Financial Aid at 714-997-6741. 

Students interested in need-based financial aid should submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the California Dream Act Application if they are not eligible for federal financial aid.