Chapman University Athletics

Chapman competes in NCAA Division III, where sports focus on personal development rather than athletic scholarships or packed stadiums. The Panthers field 23 varsity teams with 589 total athletes, meaning about 7.7% of the 7,629 students compete at the varsity level. They play in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference against other small private colleges in the region. Chapman's athletic program emphasizes the student-athlete experience without the pressure of athletic scholarships, which aligns with the university's focus on academics and arts. The Panthers have solid programs across multiple sports, though the school's reputation centers more on its well-known film school and performing arts programs than athletic prowess. Students can enjoy competitive sports while maintaining their academic priorities.