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Concordia University Chicago

River Forest, 🇺🇸 United States Private Non-Profit
Concordia University Chicago campus
5,066 students Suburban

About Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University Chicago (CUC) is a private Lutheran university located in River Forest, Illinois, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. With a rich history dating back to 1864, CUC provides a welcoming and supportive environment for students from around the globe, fostering academic excellence and personal growth. The university emphasizes a holistic educational experience, preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives.

Academics


CUC offers a diverse array of academic programs across various colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, College of Education, and College of Graduate and Innovative Programs. The university is known for its strong programs in education, business, and liberal arts, with a teaching approach that combines rigorous coursework with practical, real-world application. Many programs emphasize interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to gain a broad perspective and develop versatile skills.

International Students


Concordia University Chicago is dedicated to supporting its international student population, offering a variety of services to ensure a smooth transition and successful academic journey. These services include international student advisors, orientation programs, and assistance with immigration matters. The university embraces diversity, with students from numerous countries contributing to a vibrant campus community, and offers many programs taught in English. International students can also engage in various student organizations that promote cultural exchange and integration.

Campus & Location


Situated in the charming village of River Forest, Illinois, Concordia University Chicago offers a suburban campus experience with easy access to the vibrant city life of Chicago. The campus features modern academic buildings, comfortable residence halls, a library, and athletic facilities. Public transportation options are readily available, allowing students to explore Chicago's world-class museums, cultural attractions, dining, and entertainment. The surrounding area of River Forest also provides a safe and welcoming community with local shops and parks.

Career Outcomes


Concordia University Chicago is committed to preparing students for successful careers, boasting strong employment rates for its graduates. The university maintains robust connections with various industries, providing students with internship opportunities and networking events. CUC's Career Services center offers comprehensive support, including resume building, interview preparation, and job search assistance. Graduates have gone on to work for notable employers in diverse fields, and the university encourages an entrepreneurial spirit among its students.

Highlights

  • Historic Lutheran university
  • Diverse academic programs
  • Strong international student support
  • Suburban campus, Chicago access
  • Holistic education focus

Student Life & Support

Visa Support Campus Housing Work on Campus Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available

Photos

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Programs Offered at Concordia University Chicago (26)

Offers programs in:

Arts & Design Business & Management Computer Science Education Law Linguistics & Literature Medicine & Health Social Sciences

Bachelor Programs (9)

Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration

Business Administration

Business Administration
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48 months English Full-time

$35,700/yr

Bachelor of Arts in Communication

Communication

Communication & Media
artsbachelorbbabsccommunication
48 months English Full-time

$35,700/yr

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

STEM

Computer Science

Computer Science
bachelorbachelor of science in computer sciencechicagocomputercomputer science
48 months English Full-time

$35,700/yr

Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice
artsbachelorbachelor of arts in criminal justicecriminalcriminal justice
48 months English Full-time

$35,700/yr

Bachelor of Arts in Education (Elementary Education)

Education

Education
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Arts in English

English

English
bachelors in englishbachelors englishstudy english in united statesbachelors english in united statesenglish program in river forest
48 months English Full-time

$35,700/yr

Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design

Graphic Design

Graphic Design
artsbachelordesigngraphicgraphic design
48 months English Full-time

$35,700/yr

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

STEM

Nursing

Nursing
babachelorbengbsbsc
48 months English Full-time

$38,000/yr

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Psychology

Psychology
bachelor of PsychologyBA PsychologyBachelor of Arts in PsychologycounselingPsychology at Concordia University Chicago
48 months English Full-time

$35,700/yr

Master Programs (11)

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Business Administration

Business Administration
administrationbusinessmastermbastates
24 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Counseling

Counseling
artsclinicalcounselinggraduatehealth
24 months English Full-time

$14,500/yr

Master of Arts in School Counseling

Counseling

Counseling
master in counselingcounseling at concordia university chicagostudy counseling in united statesenglish master counseling in united statesenglish-taught master counseling
24 months English Full-time

$14,500/yr

Master of Arts in Reading Specialist

Education

Education
artseducationgraduatemasterpostgraduate
24 months English Full-time

Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction

Education

Education
curriculumeducationgraduateinstructionmaster
24 months English Full-time

$14,000/yr

Master of Arts in Educational Leadership

Educational Leadership

Educational Leadership
artseducationaleducational leadershipleadershipmaster
24 months English Full-time

$14,000/yr

Master of Arts in Educational Technology

STEM

Educational Technology

Educational Technology
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24 months English Full-time

Master of Science in Exercise Science

STEM

Exercise Science

Exercise Science
exercisegraduatemamastermba
24 months English Full-time

$15,000/yr

Master of Science in Information Technology

STEM

Information Technology

Information Technology
information technology masterMS ITIT management graduatecybersecurity ITnetwork systems master
24 months English Full-time

$17,000/yr

Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management

Nonprofit Management

Nonprofit Management
artsmanagementmasternonprofitunited states
24 months English Full-time

Master of Arts in Sports Management

Sports Management

Sports Management
sports managementmasters in sports managementmaster of sports managementMSc Sports ManagementMS Sports Management
24 months English Full-time

$16,000/yr

PhD Programs (6)

Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership

Education

Education
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36 months English Full-time

$19,000/yr

Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership

Educational Leadership

Educational Leadership
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36 months English Full-time

Doctor of Education (EdD) in Higher Education Leadership

Higher Education

Higher Education
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36 months English Full-time

$19,000/yr

PhD in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service

Leadership Studies

Leadership Studies
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48 months English Full-time

Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Organizational Leadership

Organizational Leadership

Organizational Leadership
organizational leadership phd illinoisleadership doctorate concordia chicagoorganizational management phdphd leadership studies usaleadership development doctorate chicago
48 months English Full-time

$20,000/yr

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

STEM

Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy
study physical therapy in river forestphysical therapydoctoral program physical therapyphysical therapy program in united statesphd in physical therapy
36 months English Full-time

$30,000/yr

Concordia University Chicago Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

6+ IELTS
72+ TOEFL
95+ Duolingo
2+ GPA
Required GRE
Intakes January, August, March, May, October
Application Deadline at least four weeks prior to the expected term of enrollment for graduate programs; at least two months prior to the expected term of enrollment for international students
Housing (monthly) ~$700
Application Fee $50
Teaching Language English
Student : Faculty 13:1
Accreditation
Higher Learning CommissionAccreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)

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Frequently Asked Questions About Concordia University Chicago

Common questions from international students considering Concordia University Chicago.

What English language requirements does Concordia University Chicago have?

Concordia University Chicago typically requires IELTS 6+ or TOEFL 72+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.

Are scholarships available at Concordia University Chicago?

Yes, Concordia University Chicago offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does Concordia University Chicago start its semesters?

Concordia University Chicago has intakes starting in January, August, March, May, October. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

How many English-taught programs does Concordia University Chicago offer?

Concordia University Chicago offers 26+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.

Where is Concordia University Chicago located?

Concordia University Chicago is located in River Forest, United States 🇺🇸. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

How much does Concordia University Chicago cost?

For specific details about Concordia University Chicago, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

What are the admission requirements for Concordia University Chicago?

For specific details about Concordia University Chicago, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

What programs does Concordia University Chicago offer?

For specific details about Concordia University Chicago, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

How does Concordia University Chicago compare to other universities?

Concordia University Chicago is a strong choice that compares favorably to peer institutions. Each university has different strengths — we recommend comparing specific programs, location, cost, and graduate outcomes for your field rather than overall rankings alone.

What is Concordia University Chicago known for?

For specific details about Concordia University Chicago, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

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