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U.S. News #382 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Concordia University-Chicago

River Forest, Illinois · www.cuchicago.edu

中文

U.S. News National 2027

#382

Acceptance rate

92.8%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$37,488

$48,998 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,368

Student-faculty ratio 13:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

32.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 47.1%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Concordia University-Chicago, located in River Forest, Illinois, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. Founded in 1864, the university is affiliated with the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and embodies a strong Christian ethos, which informs its educational philosophy and campus culture. The university's motto, "In Christ, We Serve," reflects its dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where students are encouraged to engage in service learning and leadership development.

The university offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including education, business, and the arts. One of its notable features is the emphasis on teacher preparation, where students benefit from hands-on experiences in classrooms and educational settings. Concordia University-Chicago is also recognized for its strong faculty, many of whom are experienced professionals in their respective fields, providing students with valuable insights and real-world perspectives. The campus itself is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, which enhance the student experience. With a vibrant campus life, students can participate in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, music, and community service, creating a well-rounded college experience. The university's commitment to student success is evident in its supportive resources, such as academic advising and career services, which help graduates transition smoothly into their professional lives.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at Concordia University-Chicago

Concordia University-Chicago has shown significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. Tuition fees have steadily increased, with the cost for in-state undergraduate students rising from approximately $27,598 in 2014 to over $36,258 in 2024, marking an increase of around 31%. This escalation in tuition could present a barrier for potential students, particularly in an environment where student debt is a growing concern across the nation.

In terms of enrollment, the number of undergraduate students has fluctuated, peaking at 1,589 in 2020 but decreasing to 1,328 by 2023. This decline in undergraduate enrollment may reflect broader trends in higher education where many institutions are experiencing challenges in attracting new students. Conversely, graduate student numbers have remained relatively stable, indicating a potential strength in graduate programs that the university may want to further promote.

Another critical metric is the graduation rate, which has been volatile. The on-time graduation rate dipped to around 28% in 2019 but saw some recovery to 38.5% in 2023. This inconsistency raises questions about student support services and the overall academic environment, which are crucial for improving graduation outcomes.

Retention rates exhibited an interesting trend, with a notable increase to roughly 70.9% in 2021, only to drop to about 57.8% by 2023. This fluctuation suggests that while the university may be successful in maintaining students in certain years, there are underlying issues that may lead to students leaving before completing their degrees.

Overall, while Concordia University-Chicago has made strides in certain areas, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating enrollment and graduation rates suggest that there are challenges to address to enhance the institution's appeal and support for its students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Chicago, about 8 mi
Nearest international airport
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), about 7 mi
River Forest, Illinois
Also known as
Concordia University Chicago
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod
President
Dr. Russell Dawn (President)
Phone
7087718300
City
River Forest, Illinois
Address
7400 Augusta, River Forest, IL 60305-1499

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
90.9%
Women
94.3%

In 2020: men 71.7%, women 76.7%.

U.S. News National Universities · last 10 years
#382Ranked #382 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Concordia University-Chicago Admission Trends

The admission statistics for Concordia University-Chicago over the years reveal significant trends in acceptance rates and the overall admission process. From 2009 to 2023, there has been a noticeable fluctuation in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. For instance, while the male acceptance rate started at approximately 48.9% in 2009, it increased notably to around 91.7% by 2023. Similarly, female acceptance rates rose from about 65.7% to 94.3% during the same period.
This upward trend in acceptance rates suggests that the university may be expanding its enrollment capacity or actively seeking to diversify its student body. The enrollment numbers have varied, with peaks and troughs, indicating a responsive approach to changing applicant demographics and possibly external factors such as economic conditions or shifts in educational preferences.
Moreover, the number of applicants denied admission has generally increased, peaking at 2,210 denials in 2016, which indicates a growing competition and interest in the university. The data also shows that the number of applicants deferring their admission has significantly increased, particularly in 2021 where deferrals reached a staggering 3,493. This could reflect broader trends in higher education, where students are opting to postpone their college experience due to factors like the COVID-19 pandemic, financial considerations, or personal reasons.
Overall, these trends highlight the evolving landscape of college admissions at Concordia University-Chicago, reflecting broader societal changes and the university's adaptive strategies in response to them.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Scores at Concordia University-Chicago

The admission data from Concordia University-Chicago over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test score submissions and their implications for prospective students. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated dramatically, peaking at 77% in 2020, indicating a potential shift in the university's admissions strategy or the changing landscape of college admissions during the pandemic.

Examining the scores, the 25th percentile and 75th percentile SAT reading and math scores have generally shown a stable yet slightly upward trend from 2007 to 2023. For instance, the SAT reading scores ranged from a low of 445 to a high of 500 over these years, while the math scores have similarly oscillated but have also shown some improvement. This consistency in score ranges suggests that the university is maintaining its admission standards while adapting to broader educational changes.

Moreover, the data indicates that the university is attracting a higher number of applicants who achieve competitive scores, particularly in recent years. The increase in the percentage of students meeting or exceeding these benchmarks could reflect the university's growing reputation and the increased emphasis on academic preparedness among applicants.

As colleges across the United States reconsider the importance of standardized testing in light of recent movements towards test-optional policies, Concordia University-Chicago's data offers valuable insights into how these trends may affect future admissions cycles. Overall, the university's commitment to academic excellence is evident, and it will be interesting to observe how these trends evolve in the coming years, especially as educational policies continue to adapt in response to societal changes.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

4,200 applicants in 2025, 92.8% admitted

3,897 admitted 303 not admitted Yield 7.7%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's3083 international (1.0%)
Master's85275 international (8.8%)
Doctoral1853 international (1.6%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
101
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies
17
Health/Health Care Administration/Management
16
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
14
Accounting
11
Psychology, General
11
Computer and Information Sciences, General
10
Education, General
9
Elementary Education and Teaching
9
Criminology
9

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Exercise Science and Kinesiology · Master's202 (2% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's161 (0% international)
  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's99 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's74 (69% international)
  • Educational Administration and Supervision, Other · Master's54 (0% international)
  • Reading Teacher Education · Master's43 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Concordia University-Chicago

The graduation data from Concordia University-Chicago for 2023 reveals some intriguing trends across various fields of study. Notably, the data highlights a significant emphasis on graduate education, particularly in the realm of educational leadership and administration, where a total of 32 master's degrees were awarded. This focus aligns with the growing demand for qualified educational leaders, especially in a time of educational reform and innovation.

In contrast, the data indicates a complete absence of graduates in several categories, including undergraduate and associate degrees across multiple programs. This suggests a potential gap in enrollment or interest in these fields, such as exercise science and environmental science. The lack of bachelor's degree graduates in many programs may reflect broader trends in higher education, where students are increasingly opting for graduate-level studies or different disciplines altogether.

Furthermore, the absence of international students graduating in these programs may point towards challenges in attracting diverse populations, which has been a prevalent issue in many U.S. institutions due to changing immigration policies and global circumstances. As universities adapt to these trends, they might consider strategic initiatives to bolster enrollment in undergraduate programs, particularly in fields where workforce demand is high, such as health sciences and physical education.

Overall, these figures not only illustrate current educational outcomes but also serve as a reflection of societal needs and institutional priorities within the educational landscape.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Educationhas 627 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.-
Bilingual and Multilingual Education.-
Curriculum and Instruction.$61,087
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$75,839-$108,199
Administration of Special Education.$75,839-$108,199
Higher Education/Higher Education Administration.$75,839-$108,199
Educational Administration and Supervision, Other.$75,839-$108,199
Educational/Instructional Technology.$62,621
Special Education and Teaching, General.$63,368
Education/Teaching of the Gifted and Talented.$63,368
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.$68,365
Elementary Education and Teaching.$45,723-$58,171
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.$45,723-$58,171
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$45,723-$58,171
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.$45,723-$58,171
Art Teacher Education.$49,060-$59,333
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.$49,060-$59,333
Mathematics Teacher Education.$49,060-$59,333
Music Teacher Education.$49,060-$59,333
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.$49,060-$59,333
Reading Teacher Education.$49,060-$59,333
Science Teacher Education/General Science Teacher Education.$49,060-$59,333
Social Science Teacher Education.$49,060-$59,333
Spanish Language Teacher Education.$49,060-$59,333
Parks, recreation, leisure has 376 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$39,995-$83,542
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$39,995-$83,542
Businesshas 201 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$50,003-$94,490
Operations Management and Supervision.$50,003-$94,490
Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management.$50,003-$94,490
Organizational Leadership.$50,003-$94,490
Accounting.-
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Finance, General.-
Organizational Behavior Studies.$62,672
Knowledge Management.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Psychology has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$35,672
Counseling Psychology.$55,944
Health professionshas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$69,376
Hospital and Health Care Facilities Administration/Management.$69,376
Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies.-
Art Therapy/Therapist.-
Computer and information sciencehas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biological and Physical Sciences.-
Gerontology.-
Social sciencehas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Criminology.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Biologyhas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Theology has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Religious Education.-
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Divinity/Ministry.-
Communication has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Communication and Media Studies, Other.-
Visual and Performing artshas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Public administrationhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.-
English has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
History has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Homeland security has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish Language and Literature.-

Students

4,770 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 60.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,368)

White
549 · 40.1%
Hispanic
510 · 37.3%
Black
179 · 13.1%
Two or more races
53 · 3.9%
Unknown
30 · 2.2%
Asian
28 · 2.0%
International
13 · 1.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
3.5%
18–19
36.3%
20–21
27.7%
22–24
13.2%
25 and over
19.4%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.4%
22–24
8.2%
25–29
19.8%
30–34
14.7%
35 and over
56.8%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Concordia University-Chicago in 2023

The student demographic data from Concordia University-Chicago for 2023 reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 267, with a notable gender distribution where approximately 60.3% are male and 39.7% are female. This suggests a relatively higher male enrollment in the freshman cohort, which may reflect trends in certain academic programs that attract more male students.

For the undergraduate upperclassmen, the data shows a larger population of 880 students, with females constituting 57.4% of the group. This shift towards a more balanced representation of genders among upperclassmen may indicate a growing acceptance and encouragement for female students in higher education, particularly in fields historically dominated by males.

The statistics for undergraduate transfer students present a similar gender distribution to that of freshmen, with 54.3% being female. This consistency across different undergraduate categories could suggest that the university is effectively supporting students transitioning from other institutions, regardless of gender.

In stark contrast, the graduate student population, which stands at 4,026, is predominantly female, comprising 68.3% of the total. This significant female majority in graduate programs reflects broader educational trends where women increasingly pursue advanced degrees, aligning with national statistics indicating women's higher enrollment rates in graduate education.

Overall, the demographics at Concordia University-Chicago illustrate a diverse and evolving educational landscape, with a notable increase in female representation, particularly at the graduate level. This trend is crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment that supports diverse perspectives and experiences.

Analysis of Age Composition at Concordia University-Chicago

The age distribution data from Concordia University-Chicago reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of its student body. Notably, the largest segment of students is concentrated in the 18-19 age range, with an almost equal number of males and females enrolled. This aligns with national trends where many students transition directly from high school to college, indicating a strong retention of young adults in higher education.

As we analyze older age groups, we observe a significant increase in graduate students, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age ranges, where males dominate the graduate male population. This could reflect trends in career advancement and lifelong learning, as many individuals in these age brackets may seek higher education to enhance their professional skills or pivot to new careers.

The data also highlights the growing presence of non-traditional students, especially those aged 40 and above, with a noteworthy female demographic. This underscores a societal shift where education is increasingly pursued at various life stages, challenging the stereotype that university is solely for the young.

Interestingly, the disparity in gender representation in certain age groups, particularly among graduate students, suggests that the university environment is evolving, possibly influenced by broader societal changes and targeted recruitment strategies. Overall, the statistics illustrate a vibrant and diverse academic community that caters to a wide range of age groups and backgrounds, reflecting the changing landscape of higher education in the United States.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates1.0%

13 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.9%2017: 1.8%2018: 2.3%2019: 3.4%2020: 3.0%2021: 0.8%2022: 0.6%2023: 0.4%2024: 0.7%2025: 1.0%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students7.8%

266 in 2025 · 3.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.4%2017: 3.1%2018: 6.6%2019: 7.5%2020: 6.9%2021: 4.1%2022: 3.4%2023: 5.2%2024: 5.6%2025: 7.8%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Concordia University-Chicago

The data from Concordia University-Chicago reveals significant trends in international student enrollment over the years, reflecting broader patterns observed in U.S. higher education. In the early years, such as 2004 and 2005, the numbers of international undergraduate students were quite low, with a mere 0.33% and 0.35% respectively of the total undergraduate population. However, a noticeable increase occurred in subsequent years. For instance, by 2014, the percentage of international undergraduates had risen to 0.75%, with a substantial jump in the number of graduate international students, which reached 1.25%.

The data indicates a peak around 2019 for graduate international students, where the percentage surged to 7.45%. This reflects a growing trend of international students seeking graduate education in the U.S., possibly driven by the global recognition of American degrees and the pursuit of advanced knowledge in various fields. The COVID-19 pandemic likely had an impact in 2020, with a decline in international enrollment, as seen in both undergraduate and graduate figures.

Interestingly, the enrollment of international students fluctuated in the following years, underscoring the potential challenges in maintaining these numbers amid changing immigration policies and global events. In 2023, the undergraduate percentage dropped to 0.38%, while the graduate percentage settled at 5.19%.

Overall, the data illustrates a fluctuating yet generally upward trend in international student enrollment at Concordia University-Chicago, emphasizing the institution's evolving role in the global educational landscape. This trend mirrors national patterns, where universities are increasingly aware of the importance of attracting diverse student populations to enrich their academic communities.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$48,998

Undergraduate tuition
$37,488
Room and board
$11,510
Graduate tuition
$10,782
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 28%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$71.9M

Tuition and fees
$52.1M72.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.5M9.0%
Gifts and private grants
$5.0M7.0%
Government grants and contracts
$4.2M5.8%
Investment return
$3.6M5.0%
Sales and services of educational activities
$5K0.0%
Other
$599K0.8%

Expenses$67.2M

Student services
$22.8M33.9%
Instruction
$22.7M33.8%
Institutional support
$11.0M16.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.3M9.5%
Academic support
$4.4M6.5%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$60,831peers $68,006
Professor
$69,436peers $78,041
Associate professor
$59,142peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$53,342peers $63,827
Instructor
$45,531peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference

Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football84-
Soccer3930
Track and Field (Indoor)3324
Track and Field (Outdoor)3324
Baseball42-
Basketball2613
Volleyball1519
Softball-23
Other Sports-19
Tennis117
Cross Country88
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football83-
Soccer2530
Basketball2423
Track and Field (Indoor)2224
Track and Field (Outdoor)2224
Baseball44-
Volleyball1022
Softball-23
Tennis811
Cross Country810
Lacrosse16-
Other Sports-13
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football68-
Soccer3926
Track and Field (Outdoor)2028
Track and Field (Indoor)2026
Basketball1826
Volleyball1326
Baseball36-
Lacrosse1915
Softball-20
Tennis89
Cross Country77

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Concordia University-Chicago:

  1. University of Illinois Chicago - Ranked 82nd in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. DePaul University - With a ranking of 151, DePaul University is a well-regarded institution known for its strong business and arts programs.

  3. Illinois Institute of Technology - Ranked 98th, this comprehensive university specializes in engineering, science, and technology disciplines.

  4. Loyola University Chicago - This institution is ranked 142nd and is known for its commitment to social justice and service-oriented education.

  5. Northwestern University - A prestigious university ranked 9th, Northwestern is known for its strong programs in journalism, law, and business.

  6. University of Chicago - With a rank of 12, this world-renowned university is famous for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty.

  7. University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th, Notre Dame is noted for its strong liberal arts curriculum and vibrant campus life.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the Chicago area.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
73
Drug referrals
53
Aggravated assault
15
Burglary
7
Weapons referrals
5
Rape
4

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Concordia University-Chicago

The crime statistics from Concordia University-Chicago reveal a fluctuating trend in campus safety over the years. The average crime rate per 1,000 students rose significantly from 2.42 in 2013 to 5.66 in 2019, indicating a concerning increase in criminal activities. Notably, 2019 saw the highest rate, which may reflect broader societal issues, such as rising crime rates in urban areas and the challenges students faced during that period.

However, the following years showcased a decline, with the average rate dropping to 1.74 in 2022, the lowest in the decade. This reduction could suggest effective measures taken by university authorities to enhance campus security and student safety, such as better crime prevention strategies and increased awareness campaigns.

Interestingly, the year 2023 experienced a resurgence in the crime rate, climbing back to 4.82. This could indicate a need for ongoing vigilance and adaptive strategies to maintain safety, especially considering the impact of external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic on student behavior and campus dynamics.

Specific offenses like gun arrests and drug-related incidents illustrate the types of challenges faced by the university. These figures emphasize the importance of continued community engagement and support systems for students, particularly in promoting safe environments.

In summary, while there have been fluctuations in crime rates at Concordia University-Chicago, the data suggests a responsive approach to safety is crucial. Ongoing efforts in crime prevention and support services will be essential in fostering a secure campus environment. For further understanding of crime rates, you can refer to the calculation method here.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Concordia University-Chicago include Paul Walter Hauser (Actor, starred in Richard Jewell), Rich Bradley (Former Illinois state representative) and Mark Warkentien (Basketball coach and executive).

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.