Undergraduate Accelerated Online Degree Program (ADP)

At Concordia University Chicago, we believe higher education should meet students where they are and help them move confidently toward where they want to be. Our Accelerated Degree Programs (ADP) provide a flexible, fully online pathway for students who are ready to complete their undergraduate degree while balancing work, family, service, and life commitments. Concordia University Chicago admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

Designed for driven and goal-oriented learners, ADP programs feature accelerated courses, streamlined scheduling, and a supportive academic environment grounded in Concordia’s Christ-centered mission. Students benefit from a rigorous liberal arts foundation, practical career relevance, and a learning community committed to integrity, leadership, and service.

As a Christ-centered institution of higher education, Concordia University Chicago cultivates an environment where academic excellence and personal growth go hand in hand. Admission is based on academic preparation and demonstrated readiness for college-level work. Students are expected to engage fully in their program and uphold the values that define the University’s mission, vision, and commitment to developing thoughtful, ethical professionals.

Admission Requirements

•  A completed application for admission to the Accelerated Degree Programs.
• Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended. The most recent transcript must indicate the student was in good standing and earned a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade-point average (on a 4.0 scale).
• Applicants who have completed fewer than 15 semester hours of college credit, or have not completed one full-time semester, must submit a final high school transcript showing graduation date.
• An official high school transcript is required if prior college credit was earned from a non-accredited institution.
• Applicants who have not completed high school must provide documentation of successful completion of the G.E.D.

Admission decisions are typically communicated within 48 hours after all required documents have been received.

Additional Information to Support an Admission Decision

The Admission Committee reserves the right to review applicants individually and may request additional information when prior academic performance does not reflect a 2.0 cumulative GPA.

Transfer students who did not leave a previous institution in good standing may be required to complete an interview with a designated University representative. In some instances, applicants may be asked to authorize communication with the Dean of Students office at the previous institution.

Transfer Credit Acceptance

Concordia University Chicago determines the number and type of transfer credits accepted toward a student’s degree in alignment with academic standards and program requirements. Refer to the appropriate section of this catalog for detailed transfer credit policies.

While cumulative GPA from prior institutions is considered during the admission review process, only coursework completed at Concordia University Chicago is used to calculate the Concordia cumulative grade-point average. Accepted transfer coursework fulfills degree requirements but does not factor into the Concordia GPA.

Received Document Policy

Documents submitted to the Undergraduate Admission Office, including transcripts and test scores, become the property of Concordia University Chicago and will not be released. As the University is not the official custodian of records originating from other institutions, it does not have authority to redistribute them. Students must contact the originating institution or organization directly to obtain copies.

Leave of Absence

A Leave of Absence (LOA) is a temporary pause in enrollment with the intention of returning within 180 days. Students who plan to resume within this timeframe must submit an official Leave of Absence Status Form to the appropriate office.

Under extraordinary circumstances and with approval from the Office of the Registrar, an extension beyond 180 days may be granted. Students on an approved leave are not required to apply for readmission but must coordinate their return with their academic advisor.

Students receiving federal financial aid who have not completed more than 60% of the term will be reviewed by the Office of Financial Aid for a Return of Title IV calculation (see Return of Title IV Financial Aid Policy in this catalog).

Students absent for more than 180 days will be administratively withdrawn for non-attendance.

International students requesting a leave of absence (distinct from Annual Leave) must contact the Office of International Student Services at iss@cuchicago.edu .