Concordia University-Wisconsin

Concordia University-Wisconsin (CUW) stands as a prominent private Lutheran institution with a rich history of adaptation and growth, preparing students for impactful careers. Initially established in 1881 as a gymnasium in Milwaukee with a strong pre-theology classical education focus for young men, CUW has evolved dramatically to become a comprehensive university. Its dedication to faith-based learning is complemented by a forward-thinking approach to professional development, making it a compelling choice for prospective students seeking both academic rigor and spiritual grounding.

The university's journey from its modest beginnings to its current stature is a testament to its dynamic vision. What started as a male-only institution eventually opened its doors to women in 1964, and by 1978, it achieved four-year institution status. A pivotal moment came with the acquisition of the Mequon campus in 1982, providing a modern and expansive home for its burgeoning programs. This move paved the way for CUW to achieve full university status in 1990, a significant milestone as the first among the ten Concordia University System campuses to do so, signaling an era of unprecedented expansion.

Under visionary leadership, Concordia University-Wisconsin experienced rapid growth, becoming the largest Lutheran college and university in North America by 1996 and currently holding the title of the largest Lutheran university in the United States by enrollment. Its academic strengths lie in a wide array of professional programs, including business, nursing, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. A particularly notable addition is the School of Pharmacy, launched in 2010, which offers a four-year Pharm.D. degree and positions CUW as one of only three institutions in Wisconsin to provide this advanced program. Furthermore, its reach extended significantly with the merger of Concordia University Ann Arbor in 2013, solidifying its commitment to broad educational impact.