Chapman University, located in Orange, California, is a private research university founded in 1861. Originally established as H. Woodruff's Pacific Seminary, it has evolved into a comprehensive institution with over 10,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs. The main campus in the historic Old Towne Orange district spans 90 acres, complemented by the Rinker Health Sciences Campus in Irvine. Known for its innovative approach, Chapman excels in fields like film and media arts through the renowned Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, business at the Argyros School, law at the Fowler School, and health sciences. Jobs at Chapman University attract professionals seeking dynamic academic environments in sunny Southern California, near Los Angeles' entertainment hub.
The university emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement, and real-world impact, making it appealing for careers in higher education. Whether pursuing faculty positions, research roles, or administrative jobs, opportunities abound in a setting that blends tradition with modernity.
Jobs at Chapman University span faculty, staff, and executive roles. Tenure-track professors lead departments, adjunct professors teach part-time courses, and research associates support grants and labs. Administrative positions include deans, directors, and HR specialists. Specialized openings exist in film production, legal education, pharmacy practice, and computational biology. For a full breakdown, explore university job types.
Current listings often feature positions like Assistant Professor of Screenwriting or Director of Admissions, reflecting Chapman's creative and student-centered ethos.
To secure jobs at Chapman University, candidates typically need advanced degrees. A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy, the highest academic degree in most fields) is standard for tenure-track faculty. For example, positions in the Schmid College of Science require a PhD in biology, chemistry, or physics. Law faculty need a JD (Juris Doctor) from an ABA-accredited school, often with clerkship experience. Education roles may accept an EdD (Doctor of Education). Postdocs (postdoctoral researchers, temporary positions for recent PhD graduates to gain experience) bridge to faculty roles.
Undergraduate teaching might require a master's degree, but Chapman prioritizes terminal degrees for credibility and research leadership.
Chapman University's research emphasizes applied innovation. Dodge College focuses on digital storytelling and VR (virtual reality) media. The Fowler School of Law prioritizes intellectual property and trial advocacy. Health sciences research targets pharmacology and physical therapy. Expertise in grant writing for NSF or NIH (National Institutes of Health) funding is crucial, as Chapman secured over $20 million in research grants in 2023.
Candidates should demonstrate interdisciplinary skills, like combining AI with film or business analytics with sustainability. Publications in journals like Journal of Film and Media Studies or conference presentations at SIGGRAPH enhance applications.
Preferred experience for jobs at Chapman University includes 3-5 years of teaching, peer-reviewed publications (5+ for assistant professors), and grant management. Skills like data analysis software (R, Python), multimedia production tools (Adobe Suite), or legal research databases are valued. Competencies encompass strong communication, mentorship, and collaboration.
Check how to write a winning academic CV for tips.
The application process for jobs at Chapman University begins on their HR portal (chapman.edu/hr). Submit a tailored CV, cover letter addressing the job's specifics, teaching statement, research plan, and three references. Interviews involve campus visits, teaching demos, and research talks.
Actionable tips:
Timeline: Postings close 30-60 days after opening; decisions in 2-4 months. Prepare for relocation support discussions.
Chapman University champions diversity through the Office of Inclusive Excellence. Initiatives include the Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan (2021-2025), targeting underrepresented faculty hires (up 15% since 2020). Programs like the Inclusive Leadership Academy train staff, while affinity groups support LGBTQ+ and Latinx communities. The university partners with HERC (Higher Education Recruitment Consortium) for equitable searches and offers bias training. In 2023, 45% of new hires were from diverse backgrounds, exceeding regional averages.
Work-life balance at Chapman University is supported by 24 vacation days, sabbaticals, and EAP (Employee Assistance Program) for mental health. Flexible hours and remote options for some staff aid parents. Campus life thrives with 200+ clubs, Division III athletics (Panthers), and events like film festivals. Orange's walkable downtown offers dining and arts; Irvine campus provides beaches nearby. Faculty enjoy research stipends and professional development funds ($3,000/year). The supportive culture reduces burnout, with wellness centers and yoga classes.
Jobs at Chapman University offer rewarding paths in a vibrant, innovative setting. From faculty to research roles, meet qualifications like PhDs and gain from diversity efforts and balanced life. Explore more higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com. For lecturer insights, read become a university lecturer. Chapman awaits talented professionals.
Tenure-track: A faculty path leading to permanent employment after review, typically 5-7 years, granting academic freedom.
Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor without tenure benefits, often teaching specific courses.
Postdoc: Postdoctoral fellowship for research training post-PhD.
Sabbatical: Paid leave for research or renewal, usually every 6-7 years.
Terminal degree: Highest qualification in a field, e.g., PhD or MFA (Master of Fine Arts).
