Concordia University Chicago
Rooted in faith, growing in knowledge, shaping the future.
📍 River Forest, United States 🇺🇸
Quick Facts about Concordia University Chicago
- Type: Private Non-Profit
- Students: 5,066
- Campus: Suburban
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
- Intakes: January, August, March, May, October
About Concordia University Chicago
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.
Information for International Students at Concordia University Chicago
Concordia University Chicago in River Forest, United States welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available (~$700/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Concordia University Chicago
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Concordia University Chicago:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 72
- Duolingo minimum: 95
- GPA minimum: 2
- GRE required
- Application fee: $50
- 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
Programs at Concordia University Chicago (8 programs)
Concordia University Chicago offers 8 programs across Bachelor, Master levels.
Bachelor Programs (3)
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $35,700/yr
This program provides a broad understanding of business principles, including management, marketing, finance, and economics, preparing students for various roles in the business world.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Financial Analyst, Entrepreneur - Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design (BA) — 48 months · English · $35,700/yr
Students learn visual communication principles, typography, digital imaging, and design software to create compelling visual content for various media.
Field: Graphic Design
Career outcomes: Graphic Designer, Web Designer, Illustrator, Art Director - Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $35,700/yr
Students develop strong oral, written, and visual communication skills, exploring various communication theories and practices relevant to media, public relations, and organizational contexts.
Field: Communication
Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Marketing Coordinator, Journalist, Corporate Communicator
Master Programs (5)
- Master of Arts in Educational Technology (MA) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program equips educators with the skills to integrate technology effectively into teaching and learning environments, fostering innovation and enhancing student engagement.
Field: Educational Technology
Career outcomes: Instructional Designer, Educational Technologist, Technology Integration Specialist - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr
The MBA program develops advanced business acumen, leadership skills, and strategic thinking, preparing graduates for executive and managerial positions across diverse industries.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: CEO, Operations Manager, Marketing Director, Financial Manager - Master of Arts in Sports Management (MA) — 24 months · English · $16,000/yr
This program focuses on the business and administrative aspects of the sports industry, including marketing, finance, event management, and legal issues in sports.
Field: Sports Management
Career outcomes: Sports Marketing Manager, Athletic Director, Event Manager, Sports Agent - Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management (MA) — 24 months · English
This program provides the skills and knowledge needed to effectively lead and manage nonprofit organizations, focusing on fundraising, governance, and program development.
Field: Nonprofit Management
Career outcomes: Nonprofit Director, Development Manager, Program Coordinator, Grant Writer - Master of Arts in Reading Specialist (MA) — 24 months · English
This program prepares educators to become reading specialists, focusing on advanced strategies for literacy instruction, assessment, and intervention for diverse learners.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Reading Specialist, Literacy Coach, Instructional Coordinator
Scholarships & Tuition at Concordia University Chicago
✅ Concordia University Chicago offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Campus & Facilities at Concordia University Chicago
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Suburban
- Housing cost: ~$700/month
Key Highlights
- Historic Lutheran university
- Diverse academic programs
- Strong international student support
- Suburban campus, Chicago access
- Holistic education focus
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
- Accreditation 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)
Notable Alumni
- Adrian Griffin
- Nick Nurse
- Erik Wilhelm
- Steven Reick
- Mark Newman
Frequently Asked Questions about Concordia University Chicago
What is Concordia University Chicago?
Concordia University Chicago is a private non-profit university located in River Forest, United States. It has approximately 5,066 students.
What are the admission requirements for Concordia University Chicago?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 72. Duolingo minimum: 95. GPA minimum: 2. GRE required. Application fee: $50. 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.
What language are courses taught in at Concordia University Chicago?
Courses at Concordia University Chicago are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does Concordia University Chicago offer?
Concordia University Chicago offers 8 programs: 3 Bachelor's, 5 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.
Does Concordia University Chicago offer scholarships?
Yes, Concordia University Chicago offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Concordia University Chicago provide visa support?
Yes, Concordia University Chicago provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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