Concordia University USA Rankings and Overview- Why Study in Concordia?

Concordia University, Chicago was founded in 1864 and celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2014. The university offers students reputable and accredited online, classroom, masters and doctoral programs. With a student population of more than 3,500 students, the university is one of the leading universities for graduate and undergraduate education. In February 2012, Concordia University, Chicago was granted accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission to offer a PhD in Leadership. Subsequently, the university added PhD to its Doctor of Education (EdD) program.

The university has received noteworthy accolades such as being acknowledged as a National College of Distinction for excellent teaching, culturally vibrant community and successful outcomes. It has also found its place in the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for volunteering services for the fourth time.

Concordia University Rankings:

The university has not been listed in the QS World University Rankings, 2016-17. Nevertheless, it falls in the >800 categories as per the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, 2017.

Why Study in Concordia University:

Many international students prefer to study in Concordia University because it is affordable. Here are some more reasons why international students choose to study in Concordia University:

  1. Practical experience: The courses offered by Concordia University are service oriented and provide students with plenty of opportunities to practice what they have learnt by volunteering at a local women’s shelter, teaching Sunday school, leading youth retreats, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and so on.
  2. Excellent location: The University is located in Chicago which is widely recognized as a sports town. Furthermore, the city is well renowned for providing affordable and economic living in safe and sound communities and it is a pioneer in reforming public institutions.
  3. Service oriented programs: The University provides students with a number of opportunities to interact with the local communities and make a difference in the lives of others. Students serve the community in different ways such as reconstructing homes in storm-stricken areas, helping out at the Boys and Girls Club of West Cook County, assisting the staff at St. Malachy Church’s soup kitchen by serving meals, etc.
  4. Accredited University: The Concordia-Chicago University is accredited by various institutions like the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation, Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs and National Association of Schools of Music.
  5. Sprawling campus: The University has a sprawling 40-acre modern and suburban campus in the upbeat River Forest which is only 10 miles from downtown Chicago. Moreover, the campus provides the students with plenty of opportunities to learn and implement what they have learnt.
  6. Close knit community: At present, the total number of students who have enrolled in Concordia-Chicago at the undergraduate level is 1,509. The student teacher ratio is 15:1. Hence, smaller classes increase cohesiveness among the group. The faculty members are available at all times to guide and support all students.
  7. Financial Aid: Nearly 86% full-time undergraduate students receive some form of need based scholarship or grant. On an average, a need based scholarship or grant would amount to $16,508.
  8. Student support services: The University provides various kinds of student support services to ensure a comfortable and safe atmosphere for all the students. This includes 24-hour foot and vehicle patrols, late night escort/transport facilities, 24-hour emergency phone lines, lighted sidewalks, student patrols, etc. In addition, the university also offers other student services like non-remedial tutoring, placement services, health services, health insurance and daycare facilities for students with small kids/children.
  9. Off-campus academics: Sophomores and senior students have the option of studying abroad for a semester, year or the summer break. They can opt for programs at the Chengdu American Center, a semester in South Africa and Westfield House (Cambridge, England). The University also offers students the visiting student program wherein they could study in a Concordia University in another part of the country for one or two semesters. Hence, students have multiple opportunities to experience life in another part of the country and meet new people.

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