Behold Concordia University Chicago a beacon of learning. Founded in 1864 Concordia University Chicago started as a college for instructors. Today it is a comprehensive university. It includes the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, and the College of Education. It also has the College of Graduate Studies and the College of Innovation and Professional Programs.
Concordia University Chicago offers graduate and undergraduate programs. It also grants doctoral degrees. The university is affiliated with The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. It is a member of the Concordia University System. This is a nationwide network of schools and universities.
Located in River Forest Illinois Concordia University Chicago is just 10 miles west of downtown Chicago. This location provides students with opportunities. They gain practical experience. It supplements classroom learning. Chicago’s resources enrich student experiences. They make real-world connections possible.
Concordia University Chicago’s history dates back to 1855. Lutheran ministers established a private “teachers’ seminary” in Milwaukee Wisconsin. Its purpose was to train day school teachers for Lutheran schools. In 1857 the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod took over the school’s operation. In 1864 the teachers’ seminary moved to Addison Illinois. This move marks Concordia University Chicago’s official foundation. Originally named Concordia Teachers’ Seminary it later became Concordia Teachers College. It is the oldest institution in the Concordia University System. In 1913 the college moved to its present campus in River Forest.
In 1979 the institution expanded its education-centered program. It became a full liberal arts institution. It changed its name to Concordia College. In 1990 the school reorganized. It changed its name to Concordia University. Until 2006 the university was unofficially known as “Concordia University River Forest”.
Concordia University Chicago offers a wide range of academic programs. These include Business Communications Music and Theology. Many students plan to become professional church workers. The university has a student-faculty ratio of 12:1.
Concordia University Chicago’s music department is noteworthy. The Wind Symphony has performed in 43 states Europe and Asia. The group has released eleven recordings of sacred wind music.
Concordia University Chicago equips men and women to serve and lead. They should act with integrity creativity and compassion. This applies to a diverse interconnected and increasingly urbanized church and world. Remember the words of the alma mater hymn. “Hail to thee our Alma Mater. Hail to thee maroon and gold.” These words connect generations of students. They stand before its pillars. They hail Concordia.