Studying abroad offers students a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge courses and immerse themselves in a diverse community, fostering both personal and academic growth. Many Indian students choose overseas education due to the advanced nature of foreign education systems and the availability of courses that are not widely offered in India. With the growing interest in global education among Indian students, studying abroad has become a pathway to unlocking their full potential, enhancing their personalities, and paving the way for promising and fulfilling careers. Among the institutions that have become popular destinations for international students, particularly Indians, Concordia University Wisconsin stands out. Its mission emphasizes preparing students, while promoting excellence in learning, faith, and leadership.
Concordia University Wisconsin in a Nutshell
Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW), founded in 1881, is a private Lutheran institution located in Mequon, Wisconsin, USA. Affiliated with the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, CUW is part of the Concordia University System, a network of universities across the United States. The main campus, situated along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, offers a tranquil and inspiring setting for academic pursuits. To meet the needs of a diverse student population, CUW also provides multiple online programs, catering to non-traditional learners.
CUW offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including business, health sciences, education, theology, arts, and sciences. At the undergraduate level, standout programs include Business, Marketing, Accounting, Computer Science (featuring AI-focused courses), and Nursing.
At the graduate level, CUW’s Master of Science in Business Analytics is its fastest-growing program, complemented by a robust MBA offering four STEM concentrations. The Master of Science in Computer Science also attracts students with specializations in Software Engineering and Information Systems, reflecting the university’s commitment to cutting-edge education that meets industry demands.
Best International University 2024
Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW) fosters a culturally diverse environment, welcoming students from over 40 countries. The university promotes welcoming and cross-cultural interactions through initiatives led by the Concordia International Center on campus. This center serves as a vibrant hub for international student events, such as regular gatherings where students engage in games and share cultural experiences, encouraging mingling between domestic and international students.
CUW’s international recruitment strategy involves collaborations and in-person visits. In India, the university works with agencies and visits tier-1 and tier-2 cities to expand its outreach. Globally, CUW focuses on countries like Indonesia, South Korea, and Vietnam in Southeast Asia, and China, where it also runs specialized programs. European efforts are concentrated in regions such as the Netherlands, Germany, and France, while African recruitment has seen growing interest from Ghana and Nigeria. Middle Eastern outreach includes visits to the UAE, Bahrain, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, ensuring students have the opportunity to connect with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
The application process at CUW is straightforward and user-friendly. Prospective students can apply online by submitting necessary documents, including transcripts, English proficiency scores (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE), and for graduate programs, additional materials such as reference letters, a resume, financial proof, and a passport copy. CUW’s admissions team handles the evaluation process in-house, expediting decisions and facilitating the issuance of immigration documents, such as the I-20, for a seamless transition to the university.
CUW stands out for its affordability compared to institutions on the East and West Coasts of the U.S. Programs like the MBA and analytics degrees cost approximately $20,000–$28,000 for a 2–2.5-year duration. Living expenses in Wisconsin are also notably lower than in major cities like Chicago, New York, or Los Angeles. Students benefit from affordable housing options near campus and reasonably priced daily essentials. Additionally, Milwaukee, located close to CUW, offers an active city life with international grocery stores, diverse restaurants, and cultural amenities at a fraction of the cost found in larger metropolitan areas.
Support and Career Readiness for International Students
To gain deeper insights into how Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW) facilitates a seamless experience for international students while preparing them for successful careers, we spoke with Jennifer Tadeo, Director of International Recruitment and Admissions. She highlighted the pivotal role of the International Center in providing personalized support, including immigration assistance through open office hours and one-on-one consultations tailored to individual needs.
Jennifer also emphasized the collaboration between the International Center and the Center for Academic Advising and Career Engagement (CAACE), which focuses on enhancing students’ career readiness. CAACE offers a suite of resources such as webinars, virtual meetings, and the Handshake platform, connecting students with potential employers and job opportunities. Additionally, CUW actively involves its alumni, who share their experiences and provide valuable insights, equipping international students with practical knowledge and guidance to navigate real-world career pathways effectively.
Where Diversity, Well-Being, and Campus Life Thrive
Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW) fosters a welcoming and vibrant campus life by organizing various cultural and social events designed to help students feel integrated and valued. For example, the university hosted a cricket tournament last spring, which was particularly popular among Indian students. During International Education Week, CUW celebrated Indian culture through traditional food and a cultural festival. Informal networks, such as the Indian student organization, also play a key role in providing support and organizing activities for international students.
CUW also prioritizes mental health and well-being, offering a health center and counseling services on campus, along with trained counselors, and accident/injury insurance. In recent years, the university has received grant funding to strengthen mental health initiatives. Faculty and staff are trained to identify students who may need support, and the university hosts events to raise awareness and provide peer assistance.
In the Days to Come
In conclusion, we also spoke with Dr. Michelle L. Reina, the Assistant Vice President of International Affairs at CUW. Dr. Reina is an accomplished educator, scholar, and international business professional with a wealth of experience in global education. Reflecting on the university’s future, she shared, “Recently, CUW introduced a new software platform to enhance access to key resources, such as internship opportunities and career services.” She further mentioned, “Looking forward, CUW plans to improve communication with students through WhatsApp and gather feedback via surveys to refine its services.” Dr. Reina also highlighted that program directors are adapting academic offerings to meet the changing needs of students. With the addition of new staff members committed to driving positive change, the university is poised for significant growth and enhancements in the coming years.
