Concordia University – St. Paul

Concordia University in St. Paul is a university of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod and strives to prepare students to excel in their careers within the context of the Christian Gospel. The school welcomes students of all backgrounds who want a challenging educational experience paired with Lutheran theology insights.

The university was founded as a Christian liberal arts school in 1893 and has remained focused on providing exceptional preparation for successful careers and meaningful lives for their graduates for the past 100 plus years. With a student-centered approach and an emphasis on academic strength as well as character, Concordia encourages students to explore their interests and values as they pursue a higher education.

The spiritual and interpersonal learning environment embodies all of Concordia's programs both on campus and online. Students feel like a part of Concordia's large family that continually supports and encourages them. Students and faculty come from a wide variety of backgrounds to provide diversity and culture to the atmosphere.

The university is home to the only Center for Hmong Studies in the world and is host to the International Conference on Hmong Studies. This event takes place every two years and brings together scholars and students to share research and ideas about promoting the field of Hmong Studies. The school also offers the first and only Minor in Hmong Studies for students.

As members of the NCAA Division II, the Concordia Golden Bears competes in a variety of varsity sports. These include men's football, golf, basketball, baseball, and golf. Women's varsity sports include competitive dance, cheerleading, basketball, soccer, softball, volleyball, and track and field. Students can cheer on their Golden Bears from campus at the Gangelhoff Center. The school also boasts a fine arts program that includes concerts, dance recitals, theatre, gospel, and more for the student who wishes to pursue fine arts or just appreciates attending fine arts events.

With 53 majors offered, Concordia University has a program to fit all students' career goals. Many programs are offered on campus or online, making them perfect for the traditional or adult learner. Real-world learning is a focus of all online programs and the environment is set up to give students a relevant learning experience that helps them develop practical abilities and knowledge that translates to their careers.

Concordia faculty members teach both in the classroom and online. They are made up of a broad range of knowledgeable experts with experience both in teaching and in their fields of expertise. As active professionals in their fields, the faculty members teach students cutting-edge information that helps them succeed in the classroom and in their chosen careers.

Concordia University - St. Paul Accreditation Details

Concordia University is accredited to grant bachelor's and master's degrees by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. The university is also a member of the Council for Higher Education Administration (CHEA).

Concordia University - St. Paul Application Requirements

Students who wish to pursue an online master's degree program at Concordia University can apply online. They must also submit their official transcripts from any accredited institutions and must show a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.

In addition to application and transcripts, prospective students must also submit a personal statement that answers questions regarding their career and education goals, strengths, and any prior experience that would enhance their learning process and success. Those applying to the program must also submit a professional resume and must have access to a computer that meets the university's technology requirements.

Tuition and Financial Aid

The online master's degree in Strategic Communication consists of 36 credit hours and tuition is $475 per credit hour.

In the 2015-2016 term, the average student was awarded $17,508 in financial aid. Concordia St. Paul is one of the most affordable private college in the state of Minnesota with generous financial aid and competitively priced tuition.

In addition to federal student aid programs, Concordia also offers a wide variety of merit-based scholarships, grants and scholarships for current members of the military and veterans, and other options that help all students afford a quality education at their institution.

Financial aid counselors at the university are available to help students determine the best type of financial assistance for their situation and to walk them through the process of applying.

Online Degrees Available

Students who maintain a full-time career and families and who want to pursue a higher degree in communication are a good fit for Concordia's Master of Arts in Strategic Communication Management. The program is 36 credit hours and is offered fully online for students who value flexibility. It can be completed in as little as seven weeks.

The online MA in Strategic Communication Management prepares graduates to apply logical analysis and strategic thinking to their career's communication challenges. With topics that apply to public relations, corporate communications, general management, and strategic planning, students who study this degree will have the knowledge excel in technology, industry innovation, intercultural communication, and leadership.

Sample courses involved in this program include Interactive Media Management, Crisis Communication Management, Persuasive Communication, and Innovative Communication.

Those who are currently working in a career or who want to work in a career that emphasizes public relations, mediated communication, interpersonal organization, or marketing will benefit from a master's degree in communications.

Graduate degrees in Strategic Communication Management can be applied to a number of industries. Those who are interested in careers in marketing, publishing, broadcasting, or advertising will benefit from this degree, as well as those who want to pursue careers in business leadership, mentorship, or non-profit management. Depending on where the graduate lives and the type of industry he or she develops a career in, a salary of $55,000 to over $100,000 per year is possible with a master's degree in communication.

Related Resource: 30 Top Affordable Online Master's in Communication

Those looking for a high-quality education with a basis in Lutheran values will find a home at Concordia University-St. Paul. The online master's degree in Strategic Communication Management will prepare them to excel in any field requiring leadership, public relations, or communication and the online format provides flexibility for today's busy lifestyles.