Concordia University-Chicago

Concordia University Chicago (CUC) stands as a vibrant private institution nestled in River Forest, Illinois, offering an engaging academic journey for over 6,200 students. While once exclusively dedicated to training teachers for parochial schools, CUC has blossomed into a comprehensive university, now boasting more than 100 diverse undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to prepare students for a wide array of professional paths. This rich academic landscape, coupled with its suburban 40-acre campus, provides a nurturing environment for learning and personal growth.

Tracing its origins back to September 1, 1864, as the Addison Teachers Seminary, Concordia University Chicago was founded by German immigrants within the strong Lutheran tradition. This deep faith-based heritage continues to shape the university's values and community spirit today, providing a supportive and values-driven educational experience. Over the decades, the institution evolved, adopting various names—Concordia Teachers College, Concordia College, and Concordia University River Forest—before becoming Concordia University Chicago, reflecting its expansive academic offerings and broader reach.

As a proud member of the Concordia University System, CUC is part of a nationwide network of colleges affiliated with the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. This affiliation reinforces its commitment to a holistic education that addresses intellectual, spiritual, and personal development. Prospective students and families will find a university that honors its past while embracing innovation, fostering an environment where individuals can discover their passions, grow intellectually, and prepare to make a meaningful impact on the world.