Christian School CompassTrue north for Christian families.
Aerial view of Concordia University-Chicago
Aerial imagery: U.S. Geological Survey (public domain). USGS

Christian college

#16 Christian colleges with the strongest worship and chapel in America

Concordia University-Chicago

River Forest, IL · Private nonprofit · 4-year · The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod · Lutheran

Real cost

Average price after aid $18,436 a year

Median debt at graduation: $23,000 (all students)

Estimate your own price · the college’s net price calculator

Concordia University Chicago is a Lutheran university in River Forest, Illinois, affiliated with The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. Its Chapel of Our Lord holds daily chapel at 11:00 a.m. during the fall and spring semesters, with weekly Compline, Vespers, Evening Prayer, Holy Communion and Prayer and Praise services. Every bachelor's student takes two theology courses, including one biblical studies course.

Faith life at a glance

A week at Concordia University-Chicago

During the fall and spring semesters.

  1. MonToday

    • 11:00AMChapel
    • 9:45PMPrayerCompline
  2. TueToday

    • 11:00AMChapel
    • 9:45PMPrayerVespers
  3. WedToday

    • 11:00AMChapel
    • 6:20PMChapelHoly Communion
    • 9:00PMWorship nightPrayer and Praise
  4. ThuToday

    • 11:00AMChapel
    • 9:45PMPrayerEvening Prayer
  5. FriToday

    • 11:00AMChapel
  6. SatToday

    No set time

  7. SunToday

    • 9:00PMWorship nightPrayer and Praise

No set time: Sat

Times as the college publishes them. Check before you plan a visit.

In the college’s own words

  • “Chapel of Our Lord stands as a constant reminder to the Concordia-Chicago Community of God's Grace in our lives through His Son, Jesus Christ.”

    Source: cuchicago.edu
  • “All members of the CUC community are welcome to join the many worship opportunities available on campus.”

    Source: cuchicago.edu
  • “Take part in the many vibrant faith communities and ministry opportunities at Concordia-Chicago.”

    Source: cuchicago.edu

Questions students ask

Do I have to go to chapel?

Chapel attendance is voluntary, and students are encouraged to attend.

Source: catalog.cuchicago.edu
What's a normal week?

Daily chapel runs from 11 to 11:20 a.m. during the fall and spring semesters, and Prayer and Praise meets on Wednesday and Sunday nights.

Source: cuchicago.edu
Where do I find community?

Students lead Bible studies, Prayer and Praise teams and music ministry.

Source: cuchicago.edu
Can I serve or go on mission trips?

Campus ministry runs service projects in Chicago, and students plan national and international mission trips.

Source: cuchicago.edu

Rankings

Where this college places on our top lists. Lists are worked out from official data and our faith research; places in the top quarter of each list are shown. See every list

In America

Academic Excellence

C+Academic Excellence: C+ (grade C+): 0 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.
45 of 100
From federal data, on fixed published scales.

Each measure counts for the share shown.

  • Graduation rate 35% of scoreThis measure counts for 35% of the Academic Excellence score.36%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.61%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.Not reported
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.13 to 1
  • Instructional spending per student 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.$5,834

Bars show points on each measure’s scale. How Academic Excellence is computed.

Source: College Scorecard (College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026))

Faith scorecard

Each area’s grade and what we found. Tap an area to see the findings and their sources.

AWorship and chapel: Strong (grade A): 85 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Worship and chapel

90 of 100 points · 7 of 7 found

  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Chapel services during the week3 or more a week (Daily chapel Monday to Friday during the fall and spring semesters.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Worship | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/concordia-experience/faith-and-ministry/worship · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Join us daily from 11-11:20 a.m. (CST/SDT) during the Fall and Spring semesters to receive strength from the Lord and His Word, especially His Gospel promises.”
      Daily chapel is held Monday to Friday, 11 to 11:20 a.m., during the fall and spring semesters.
    2. Student Services | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/student-services · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Attendance is voluntary, but all Christians are encouraged to regard chapel as a unique opportunity for spiritual growth.”
      Chapel is held daily; attendance is voluntary and students are encouraged to attend.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Chapel attendance expected of studentsEncouraged or partly required (Attendance is voluntary; students are encouraged to attend.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Student Services | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/student-services · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Attendance is voluntary, but all Christians are encouraged to regard chapel as a unique opportunity for spiritual growth.”
      Chapel is held daily; attendance is voluntary and students are encouraged to attend.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Student worship nights or praise servicesEvery week (Prayer and Praise is held each Wednesday and Sunday night.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Worship | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/concordia-experience/faith-and-ministry/worship · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Prayer and Praise is held each Wednesday and Sunday night at 9 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
      Prayer and Praise is held on Wednesday and Sunday nights at 9 p.m.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Prayer opportunities (prayer rooms, prayer groups, days or weeks of prayer)Weekly (Compline, Vespers and Evening Prayer are prayed weekly, on different nights.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Worship | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/concordia-experience/faith-and-ministry/worship · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Compline is prayed each Monday night at 9:45 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
      Compline is prayed weekly on Monday nights at 9:45 p.m.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Campus pastors or chaplains serving studentsFull-time campus pastor or chaplain (A named campus pastor, chaplain or dean of chapel serves students on the college staff.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Simeon Raddatz University Chaplain 708-209-3470”
      Simeon Raddatz is the University Chaplain; the campus ministry staff page lists one staff member.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    A chapel or worship space on campusYes
    Sources (1)
    1. Worship | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/concordia-experience/faith-and-ministry/worship · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Chapel of Our Lord stands as a constant reminder to the Concordia-Chicago Community of God's Grace in our lives through His Son, Jesus Christ.”
      Chapel of Our Lord is the campus chapel.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Published weekly schedule of chapel, worship and prayer10 or more times a week (11 weekly times documented: 6 chapel, 2 worship night, 3 prayer.)Computed from the verified chapel services, worship nights and prayer times listed on the college's page (each day a time is offered counts once).
N/ABible and theology: Not enough information. Official sources do not cover enough of this to grade it yet.

Bible and theology

Not enough information · 3 of 6 found

  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Bible or theology courses required of all bachelor's students2 courses (The 6-hour Theology University Requirement appears in both the BA and BS general education pages: one biblical studies course and one Christian doctrine course.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Bachelor of Arts General Education Requirements | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/college-health-science-technology/bachelor-arts-ba/bachelor-arts-degree-requirements · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Biblical Studies Course (Select one) | 3 | THY-1100 | The Bible (B) | THY-2010 | Introduction to the Old Testament (B) | THY-3105 | Introduction to the New Testament (B) | Christian Doctrine Course (Select one) | 3 | THY-1210 | Introduction to Christianity (S) | THY-2500 | Martin Luther's Small and Large Catechisms (S)”
      Bachelor of Arts students take one biblical studies course and one Christian doctrine course; the biblical studies course is one choice among three.
    2. General Education Requirements for BS Programs | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/college-health-science-technology/bachelor-science-bs/bachelor-science-degree-requirements · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Theology University Requirements ( 6 hours)”
      The Bachelor of Science general education requirements include the same 6-hour Theology University Requirement.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Required courses include study of the Old and New TestamentsOne choice among others (The biblical studies course is one choice among The Bible, Introduction to the Old Testament and Introduction to the New Testament.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Bachelor of Arts General Education Requirements | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/college-health-science-technology/bachelor-arts-ba/bachelor-arts-degree-requirements · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Biblical Studies Course (Select one) | 3 | THY-1100 | The Bible (B) | THY-2010 | Introduction to the Old Testament (B) | THY-3105 | Introduction to the New Testament (B) | Christian Doctrine Course (Select one) | 3 | THY-1210 | Introduction to Christianity (S) | THY-2500 | Martin Luther's Small and Large Catechisms (S)”
      Bachelor of Arts students take one biblical studies course and one Christian doctrine course; the biblical studies course is one choice among three.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Christian worldview or faith-and-learning courses requiredNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Faith integrated across the curriculum (stated in academic or faculty policy)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Bible, theology or ministry major offeredYes (A Theology (BA) major is offered, and a Deaconess Program (BA in Theology).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Theology (BA) | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/college-theology-arts-humanities/bachelor-arts-ba/theology-ba · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “The Bachelor of Arts in Theology is a broad-basis degree program that prepares students as future teachers, satisfies career options and is excellent preparation for students interested in continuing their education at the graduate level.”
      A Bachelor of Arts major in Theology is offered.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    A published statement of faithNot enough information: not found in official sources.
BChristian community: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Christian community

70 of 100 points · 6 of 7 found

  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Spiritual life staff (pastors, ministers and professional staff)1 to 2 (One professional staff member is listed on the campus ministry staff page; the page also mentions a University Pastor and Deaconess without names.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Simeon Raddatz University Chaplain 708-209-3470”
      Simeon Raddatz is the University Chaplain; the campus ministry staff page lists one staff member.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Retreats or spiritual emphasis weeks each yearOne or two (Retreats are among the events students lead through the ministry.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Ministry to Concordia-Chicago: Here students lead a wide range of events, including speakers, retreats, Bible studies, concerts, fellowship events and other spiritual activities.”
      Students lead retreats, Bible studies and other spiritual activities through campus ministry.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Bible studies, small groups and Christian student organizationsMany (Student-led Bible studies, Fellowship of Christian Athletes support, Prayer and Praise teams, and music ministry.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Ministry to Concordia-Chicago: Here students lead a wide range of events, including speakers, retreats, Bible studies, concerts, fellowship events and other spiritual activities.”
      Students lead retreats, Bible studies and other spiritual activities through campus ministry.
    2. Worship | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/concordia-experience/faith-and-ministry/worship · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Prayer and Praise is held each Wednesday and Sunday night at 9 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
      Prayer and Praise is held on Wednesday and Sunday nights at 9 p.m.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Faculty affirm the college's statement of faithNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Faith life in residence halls (hall Bible studies, resident ministry leaders)In some halls (Residential Ministry Coordinators live in the residence halls.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Residential Ministry Coordinators: These leaders, who live in the residence halls with their peers, work to develop an environment that’s conducive to their residents’ spiritual growth.”
      Residential Ministry Coordinators live in the residence halls and support residents' spiritual growth.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Help finding a local church (church fairs, rides, partner churches)Yes
    Sources (2)
    1. Worship | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/concordia-experience/faith-and-ministry/worship · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “The University Chaplain is happy to assist any student in finding a church that aligns with his or her confession of faith.”
      The University Chaplain helps students find a local church.
    2. Student Services | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/student-services · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Transportation can be arranged for students to participate in worship at area churches of various denominations.”
      Transportation to area churches is arranged for students.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Office or senior leader for spiritual life or Christian missionYes
    Sources (2)
    1. University Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Take part in the many vibrant faith communities and ministry opportunities at Concordia-Chicago.”
      University Ministry is the university office for spiritual life.
    2. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Simeon Raddatz University Chaplain 708-209-3470”
      Simeon Raddatz is the University Chaplain; the campus ministry staff page lists one staff member.
BMissions and service: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Missions and service

73 of 100 points · 5 of 6 found

  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service or outreach officeYes (Service projects and outreach are run through the campus ministry, which has staff.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Ministry to Chicago: These opportunities focus on serving those in need in the Chicago area. Service projects and outreach events include ministry to urban youth, prison literacy programs, nursing home ministry, and support for the homeless and the developmentally disabled.”
      Campus ministry runs service projects and outreach in the Chicago area.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Service hours or service-learning in the curriculumNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Missions trips offered to studentsSome (National and international mission trips are planned by students.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Ministry to the World: Student leaders help raise awareness of global Christian issues and plan mission trips to those in need.”
      Students plan mission trips and awareness events on global Christian issues.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Partnerships with local churches and ministries for serviceSome (Named partners include Lutheran Church Charities (disaster response) and St. Paul Lutheran School (tutoring).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Lutheran Heritage | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/concordia-experience/luthern-heritage · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Tutoring program at St. Paul Lutheran School in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago”
      Students run a tutoring program at St. Paul Lutheran School, and service includes disaster response with Lutheran Church Charities.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Cross-cultural or global ministry programsSome (Global mission trips and awareness events; frequency not stated.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Ministry to the World: Student leaders help raise awareness of global Christian issues and plan mission trips to those in need.”
      Students plan mission trips and awareness events on global Christian issues.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service explicitly rooted in the Christian missionYes
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Living the Word of God, loving all people in His name, serving God’s children on campus, in our community, to the ends of the earth.”
      Campus ministry's stated purpose is rooted in the Christian mission of serving people in Christ's name.

Strengths

  • Daily chapel is held Monday to Friday during the fall and spring semesters.
    Sources (1)
    1. Worship | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/concordia-experience/faith-and-ministry/worship · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Join us daily from 11-11:20 a.m. (CST/SDT) during the Fall and Spring semesters to receive strength from the Lord and His Word, especially His Gospel promises.”
      Daily chapel is held Monday to Friday, 11 to 11:20 a.m., during the fall and spring semesters.
  • Weekly services include Compline, Vespers, Evening Prayer, Holy Communion and Prayer and Praise.
    Sources (1)
    1. Worship | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/concordia-experience/faith-and-ministry/worship · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Compline is prayed each Monday night at 9:45 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
      Compline is prayed weekly on Monday nights at 9:45 p.m.
      “Holy Communion (the Lord’s Supper or Holy Eucharist) is celebrated each Wednesday night at 6:20 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
      Holy Communion is celebrated weekly on Wednesday nights at 6:20 p.m.
      “Prayer and Praise is held each Wednesday and Sunday night at 9 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
      Prayer and Praise is held on Wednesday and Sunday nights at 9 p.m.
      “Vespers is prayed each Tuesday night at 9:45 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
      Vespers is prayed weekly on Tuesday nights at 9:45 p.m.
      “Evening Prayer is prayed each Thursday night at 9:45 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
      Evening Prayer is prayed weekly on Thursday nights at 9:45 p.m.
  • Every bachelor's student takes two theology courses, including one biblical studies course, and a Theology (BA) major is offered.
    Sources (2)
    1. Bachelor of Arts General Education Requirements | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/college-health-science-technology/bachelor-arts-ba/bachelor-arts-degree-requirements · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Biblical Studies Course (Select one) | 3 | THY-1100 | The Bible (B) | THY-2010 | Introduction to the Old Testament (B) | THY-3105 | Introduction to the New Testament (B) | Christian Doctrine Course (Select one) | 3 | THY-1210 | Introduction to Christianity (S) | THY-2500 | Martin Luther's Small and Large Catechisms (S)”
      Bachelor of Arts students take one biblical studies course and one Christian doctrine course; the biblical studies course is one choice among three.
    2. Theology (BA) | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/college-theology-arts-humanities/bachelor-arts-ba/theology-ba · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “The Bachelor of Arts in Theology is a broad-basis degree program that prepares students as future teachers, satisfies career options and is excellent preparation for students interested in continuing their education at the graduate level.”
      A Bachelor of Arts major in Theology is offered.
  • Students serve through campus ministry in Chicago, around the world and in the residence halls.
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Ministry to Chicago: These opportunities focus on serving those in need in the Chicago area. Service projects and outreach events include ministry to urban youth, prison literacy programs, nursing home ministry, and support for the homeless and the developmentally disabled.”
      Campus ministry runs service projects and outreach in the Chicago area.
      “Ministry to the World: Student leaders help raise awareness of global Christian issues and plan mission trips to those in need.”
      Students plan mission trips and awareness events on global Christian issues.
      “Residential Ministry Coordinators: These leaders, who live in the residence halls with their peers, work to develop an environment that’s conducive to their residents’ spiritual growth.”
      Residential Ministry Coordinators live in the residence halls and support residents' spiritual growth.

Concerns

  • Chapel attendance is voluntary.
    Sources (1)
    1. Student Services | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/student-services · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Attendance is voluntary, but all Christians are encouraged to regard chapel as a unique opportunity for spiritual growth.”
      Chapel is held daily; attendance is voluntary and students are encouraged to attend.
  • The required biblical studies course may be The Bible, the Old Testament or the New Testament; a student is not required to take both Testaments.
    Sources (1)
    1. Bachelor of Arts General Education Requirements | Concordia University Chicago Academic Catalog 2026-2027catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/college-health-science-technology/bachelor-arts-ba/bachelor-arts-degree-requirements · verified Oct. 20, 2026
      “Biblical Studies Course (Select one) | 3 | THY-1100 | The Bible (B) | THY-2010 | Introduction to the Old Testament (B) | THY-3105 | Introduction to the New Testament (B) | Christian Doctrine Course (Select one) | 3 | THY-1210 | Introduction to Christianity (S) | THY-2500 | Martin Luther's Small and Large Catechisms (S)”
      Bachelor of Arts students take one biblical studies course and one Christian doctrine course; the biblical studies course is one choice among three.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Grades come from the documented indicators under the published rubric. “Not enough information” does not mean the school lacks it.

Campus ministry home

University Ministry (Chapel of Our Lord)

  • Address: 7400 Augusta St., River Forest, IL 60305
  • Location: On campus
  • Facilities: chapel

View on map ↗

Source: cuchicago.edu, verified Oct. 20, 2026, cuchicago.edu, verified Oct. 20, 2026, cuchicago.edu, verified Oct. 20, 2026

Campus ministry

Sources (2)
  1. Campus Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
    “Simeon Raddatz University Chaplain 708-209-3470”
    Simeon Raddatz is the University Chaplain; the campus ministry staff page lists one staff member.
  2. University Ministry | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/about-us/university-ministry · verified Oct. 20, 2026
    “Take part in the many vibrant faith communities and ministry opportunities at Concordia-Chicago.”
    University Ministry is the university office for spiritual life.

Christian clubs and student life

4 groups and regular activities · 1 on campus, 2 off campus, 1 location not published

Service 2

  • Ministry to the World (mission trips)Off campus
    Student leaders plan national and international mission trips and awareness events.
  • Sunday Morning Ride Sharing MinistryOff campus
    University vehicles take students who cannot drive to Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod churches.

Faith formation 1

  • Ministry to Concordia-Chicago (student-led Bible studies and fellowship)On campus
    Student-led events, including speakers, retreats, Bible studies and fellowship events; supports the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Worship and prayer 1

  • Prayer and Praise
    Wednesday and Sunday nights at 9 p.m.
    Student worship led by the Prayer and Praise Ensemble.

Everything listed is published by the school, its campus ministry, or the church. Ask the campus minister what’s happening this semester.

Chapel, worship and prayer

Confirm with the campus ministry

Chapel 2

  • Monday–Friday11:00 AM · 11:00 to 11:20 a.m. during the fall and spring semesters (Daily Chapel).
  • Wednesday6:20 PMChapel of Our Lord · Holy Communion, during the fall and spring semesters.

Worship night 1

  • Sunday, Wednesday9:00 PM · Prayer and Praise, led by the Prayer and Praise Ensemble, during the fall and spring semesters.

Prayer 3

  • Monday9:45 PM · Compline, student-led, during the fall and spring semesters.
  • Tuesday9:45 PM · Vespers, student-led, during the fall and spring semesters.
  • Thursday9:45 PM · Evening Prayer, student-led, during the fall and spring semesters.

Times come only from official campus ministry, chaplaincy, or school pages, and can change with the season. Last verified Oct. 20, 2026.

Sources for these times (1)
  1. Worship | Concordia University Chicagocuchicago.edu/concordia-experience/faith-and-ministry/worship · verified Oct. 20, 2026
    “Join us daily from 11-11:20 a.m. (CST/SDT) during the Fall and Spring semesters to receive strength from the Lord and His Word, especially His Gospel promises.”
    Daily chapel is held Monday to Friday, 11 to 11:20 a.m., during the fall and spring semesters.
    “Holy Communion (the Lord’s Supper or Holy Eucharist) is celebrated each Wednesday night at 6:20 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
    Holy Communion is celebrated weekly on Wednesday nights at 6:20 p.m.
    “Prayer and Praise is held each Wednesday and Sunday night at 9 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
    Prayer and Praise is held on Wednesday and Sunday nights at 9 p.m.
    “Compline is prayed each Monday night at 9:45 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
    Compline is prayed weekly on Monday nights at 9:45 p.m.
    “Vespers is prayed each Tuesday night at 9:45 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
    Vespers is prayed weekly on Tuesday nights at 9:45 p.m.
    “Evening Prayer is prayed each Thursday night at 9:45 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters.”
    Evening Prayer is prayed weekly on Thursday nights at 9:45 p.m.

Plan a campus visit Chapel and worship times for your dates, questions to ask, and a calendar button.

What families pay, by income

Average yearly price after grants and scholarships, for students who receive federal aid.

Average net price by family income
Family incomePrice after aid
Up to $30,000$16,795
$30,001–$48,000$16,397
$48,001–$75,000$15,768
$75,001–$110,000$20,046
Over $110,000$23,907

Full cost of attendance before aid: $45,383 a year.

Use the college’s net price calculator for your own estimate.

Cost and value

Federal data, shown separately. Cost, debt, and earnings are never part of any grade.

Value and outcomes
Undergraduate students
Fall enrollment (IPEDS)
1,377
Men and women
College Scorecard, fall 2023
Men 48% · Women 52%
First-generation students
College Scorecard
39%
First-year students from another state
IPEDS, fall 2023
32%
Total students5,066
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$18,436
Cost of attendance (per year)$45,383
Median federal debt at graduation$23,000
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
36%
Graduation rate for Pell grant recipients
College Scorecard, within 6 years
50%
Graduation rate for first-generation students
College Scorecard, within 6 years
47%
Borrowers paying down their loans within 3 years
College Scorecard, within 3 years
59%
First-year retention61%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$54,089
Admission rate93%
Application fee
IPEDS, 2023–24
No application fee
Typical rent
HUD fair market rent, FY2026
About $1,581 a month for a one-bedroom
Students receiving Pell grants46%

Value index: 57 / 100 (how it’s computed)

Sources: College Scorecard · IPEDS College Navigator · Net price calculator
College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026); IPEDS 2024-25 directory and institutional characteristics; fall 2023 enrollment.

Earnings by major

Median earnings of bachelor’s graduates a few years after finishing, by major (College Scorecard).

Median earnings by major
MajorMedian earnings
Health administration$73,256
Human resources$72,050
Kinesiology and exercise science$55,309
Secondary education$55,212
Business administration$54,533
Criminology$50,897
Psychology$46,590
Teacher education$45,532
Communication studies$43,071

Also offered (no earnings published yet): Accounting, Allied health, Arts management, Biological and physical sciences, Biology, Business/Corporate Communications, Chemistry, Computing and information science, Criminal justice, Design, Education (general), English, Entrepreneurship, Ethnic and gender studies, Finance, Fine arts, General studies, Geography, Geology and earth science, History, Journalism, Liberal arts, Management information systems, Marketing, Mathematics, Microbiological Sciences and Immunology, Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Missions/Missionary Studies and Missiology, Music, Natural resources and conservation, Nursing, Philosophy, Physical Sciences, Physiology and pathology, Political science, Pre-health, Rehabilitation and therapy, Religious Education, Religious studies, Romance languages, Social work, Sociology, Special education, Theatre, Theology, Visual and performing arts.

What students study most

Share of bachelor’s degrees by field, first majors in 2023–24 (IPEDS).

Most common bachelor’s fields
FieldShare of degrees
Parks, recreation and fitness31%
Education16%
Business15%
Health professions11%
Psychology6%

Campus facts

School colors
SettingSuburb
Part-time undergraduates10%
Undergraduates aged 25 and older21%
On-campus room and board (per year)$11,510
SportsNCAA Division III · Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference
Study abroadOffered
Students per faculty member13 to 1
Undergraduates registered with the disability officeAbout 7%IPEDS, 2023–24
Disability servicesVisit the office’s pageThe college’s own page
Faculty who are full-time70%College Scorecard, fall 2023
Endowment per student$10,094IPEDS, 2023, per student
Dorm spaceFor about 47% of studentsBeds per undergraduate; not who lives on campus
Nearest airport with airline serviceChicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)About 7 miles away · about 40 minutes by car
Town population11,992Census, 2020–2024
Nearest city of 250,000 people or moreChicagoAbout 8 miles away · about 20 minutes by car
Typical weather26°F in January · 76°F in JulyNOAA, 1991–2020, from Chicago Midway Airport, IL, about 8 miles away

Federal data (IPEDS and College Scorecard), except school colors. None of this changes the faith grades.

Campus safety reports

On-campus crimes reported in 2024, per 1,000 students.

On-campus crimes per 1,000 students
CategoryThis campusU.S. rate
Rape0.210.07
Robbery0.000.01
Aggravated assault0.420.04
Burglary0.630.08
Motor vehicle theft0.000.15

Numbers reflect what each campus reported. They differ with campus size and how reporting is done, so compare with care. U.S. rate: total reported offenses divided by total students at every institution in the report.

Source: Official data: U.S. Department of Education

Christian churches nearby

Map of Concordia University-Chicago, its Christian center and nearby Christian churches0.25 miUniversity Ministry (Chapel of Our Lord): 0.1 miConcordia University-Chicago (campus)N0.1 mi
CampusChristian centerOpen a street map ›

No Christian churches are mapped in OpenStreetMap within 3 miles. The map may be incomplete; check a local church directory.

Within 3 miles, as mapped by OpenStreetMap contributors. The map may be incomplete. Confirm with the church.

Questions families ask

Is Concordia University-Chicago a Christian college?
Yes. Concordia University-Chicago is a Christian college. Its sponsor is The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod.
What is Concordia University-Chicago’s Compass Score?
70 out of 100 (grade B). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.
Where is chapel held at Concordia University-Chicago?
Chapel is listed at Chapel of Our Lord. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the college’s spiritual life office before you go.

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About this school’s data
  • IPEDS unit ID 144351
  • Carnegie classification: Master's university (larger programs)
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (U.S. Department of Education DAPIP)
  • Religious affiliation (IPEDS): Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod
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