Nestled in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, Chowan University has nurtured minds and spirits for over 170 years, growing from its Baptist roots into a diverse, coeducational institution. While honoring its Christian heritage, Chowan has expanded its mission to foster the intellectual, social, and spiritual growth of students from all walks of life.

The university fosters a strong sense of community, bringing together students from diverse backgrounds—ethnicity, faith, economic circumstance and academic history—into one family. Legacy students are welcomed warmly to continue their family’s tradition, and at the same time, the university provides a supportive environment for first-generation students, marking their first step on a shared collegiate journey. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the university is authorized to award associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees.
“Our mission blends tradition with forwardthinking innovation to prepare students for today’s demands and tomorrow’s opportunities,” says Dr. Rosemary M. Thomas, president. “Chowan is a place where faith, family, and future converge.

Dynamic Academics with Real-World Focus

With over 60 academic programs, Chowan’s offerings span fields such as biology, business, education, graphic design, and sports science. Beyond classroom instruction, Chowan emphasizes practical, career-driven learning. Faculty integrate internships, service projects, and professional development to equip students with both technical expertise and essential life skills. Chowan University provides some level of financial aid to 100% of its students, ensuring that each student has the support needed to access a quality education—something rarely found at other institutions.

“Education at Chowan is more than academic—it's an experience designed to shape well-rounded, career-ready individuals,” says Dr. Thomas. “Our programs incorporate hands-on learning, from mock interviews to mentorships, giving students the skills to thrive in their chosen fields.”

Faith in action is another core principle at Chowan University, guiding all activities. The institution teaches students to think and live with honor and conscience. From classrooms to athletic fields, faculty and staff are dedicated to teaching, advising and engaging students in various settings through a wide range of extracurricular activities.

Innovative Learning for a Modern World

Chowan’s distinctive life skills curriculum breaks the mold of traditional education. By focusing on two classes per seven-week session, students dive deeper into their subjects, building close connections with faculty while balancing academics with real-world experience. Classes are structured around ten critical life skills—such as communication, collaboration, and financial literacy—that empower students for both personal and professional success.

Through this approach, Chowan provides not only rigorous education but also personal growth, teaching students to excel academically while fostering community-minded leaders who are ready to impact the world.

“Chowan combines academic excellence, community values, and faith to produce graduates who are confident leaders, ready to engage with and positively influence the world around them. Students leave Chowan not just with a degree, but with the knowledge, skills, and moral compass to thrive in life,” says Dr. Thomas.

Combining Academic Rigor with Real-World Experience

Qualified and experienced faculty are the foundation of Chowan University, playing a vital role in delivering knowledge, inspiring students, and preparing them for real-world success. The university ensures high standards through a rigorous hiring process, continuous professional development, regular performance evaluations, and a supportive academic environment.

Chowan has implemented a unique academic structure designed to enhance focus and engagement. Students take fewer courses at a time, allowing for immersive learning each subject while benefiting from a more concentrated learning experience. With classes held just four days a week, Wednesdays are reserved for extracurricular activities and hands-on learning, offering students the opportunity to engage in realworld problem-solving and gain deeper subject mastery.

A Stepping Stone for Student-Athletes’ Journey to Success

At Chowan University, when one door closes, another opportunity emerges. This is the story of a young woman who came to Chowan with dreams of athletic success, only to face an unexpected injury that threatened her future in her chosen sport. Rather than letting her dream end there, the university stepped in, helping her pivot to a new sport with the support of scholarships and coaching. With Chowan’s unwavering commitment and her own determination, she flourished as a successful athlete in her new sport.

Her journey didn’t end with athletics. Chowan’s holistic approach empowered her to excel academically, cultivating her love for sports while guiding her toward a new path of success.

Chowan defines success by combining academic excellence with practical experience, offering a supportive community where students are encouraged to pursue their passions and achieve their full potential. The university prepares graduates not just for careers, but for life, shaping them into confident leaders and engaged citizens ready to make a lasting impact on the world.