Concordia University History

Concordia University opened its doors for the first time in Portland, Oregon, in 1905. The school began as a four-year academy to meet the needs of the region for pastors and school teachers for the Lutheran Church Missouri-Synod,  focused on providing quality education for the Lutheran community. As a member of a network of ten private universities, Concordia University offers a liberal arts education, pre-professional programs, professional church work programs, and both undergraduate and master degrees in education and business.

Today, Concordia University is best known for its superior education and enrichment offerings in the field of education. As an online educator, Concordia University allows students to earn their degree from home, at the times of their choosing. The degree programs have expanded across the United States and even to other countries, but the majority of Concordia’s 1,500 students come from the Pacific Northwest.

Concordia University Portland prepares and educates Christian leaders and leaders of other faiths for the transformation of society. Located on 22 acres in a residential neighborhood of Portland, Concordia’s mission drives all planning in academics and future directions. The campus builds on its strengths, pursuing programs that will assist students to prepare for work or to enhance their pursuit of lifelong learning.

Students, staff, and faculty — the Concordia Community — are valued as the most important components of this campus. The campus is always striving to encourage and support students in every way possible so that they may become leaders able to service and fulfill the needs of the community.