Frequently Asked Questions
- Why attend a CUW Off-Campus Program?
- Are the off-campus programs the same as those offered on campus?
- What is the course format?
- Are the off-campus programs accredited?
- What are the requirements for admission?
- After being accepted, who do I contact for answers to my questions?
- Once accepted, how do I register for classes?
- I am not interested in the entire program; may I register for a class in the cohort?
- Can off-campus students apply for financial aid?
- What is tuition?
- How do I get my textbooks?
Why Attend a CUW Off-Campus Program?
The Concordia University's Masters cohort programs allow graduate students the opportunity to further their education at a convenient location. A unique benefit of the cohort program is the intimate nature of the classes. As a cohort of students progresses through the program, it is likely students will form new friendships and professional acquaintances that will continue even after the program is complete. This structure also creates a more relaxed classroom setting, where the students all know one another, and builds a system of support for students.
Each course is taught by qualified faculty who possesses expertise in his or her field of study. The instructors have varied backgrounds, and, therefore, each faculty member brings new perspectives and experiences to the classroom to share with students.
Are the off-campus programs the same as those offered on campus?
Other than the accelerated schedule, the content of the off-campus courses is the same as those offered on Concordia's main campus and fulfill the same degree requirements.
What is the course format?
In general, cohort classes meet once a week for eight weeks, with each class session meeting for four hours. Once a class is completed, the next class usually begins the following week, with exceptions for summer and holidays. Most classes meet in the evenings. Summer courses may be scheduled four to five times a week, for four hours, over a period of two weeks.
Are the off-campus programs accredited?
Yes. Concordia University Wisconsin is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. 30 North La Salle Street, Suite 2400 Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504 www.ncacihe.org 312.263.0456 www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org.
The graduate programs are also approved by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction 1.800.441.4563, www.dpi.state.wi.us.
What are the requirements for admission?
To be considered for admission, a student must:
- Have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.00 in your undergraduate coursework.
Please note that some programs have additional requirements.
Once accepted, how do I register for classes?
Concordia staff will provide you with an Automatic Registration Consent Form. You will need to complete, sign, and return the Automatic Registration Consent Form to Concordia University Wisconsin to be registered for classes. As the cohort continues, you will also be automatically registered for all subsequent classes. You do not have to do anything to register other than submit your Automatic Registration Consent form.
After being accepted, who do I contact for answers to my questions?
Once accepted, Brad Hensley, the graduate-education off-campus coordinator, should be your first contact for issues or questions concerning the cohorts. You should direct program specific questions to either Brad Hensley or the appropriate program director. Questions not directly pertaining to the cohort should be directed to the appropriate campus office (e.g. financial aid, informationtechnology, cashier, etc).
I am not interested in the entire program; may I register for a class in the cohort?
If you are interested in registering in one of the cohort classes without enrolling in the cohort you may do so if space is available after cohort students are registered. Please contact Brad Hensley for more information.
Can off-campus students apply for financial aid?
Yes, if you fulfill the eligibility requirements. Various forms of financial aid, including Stafford Loans, are available, and Student Loans in repayment may be deferred until after completion of the program. If your current school of employment receives Title 1 funding, you may be eligible for up to $5,000 in loan forgiveness. Please visit the Financial Aid webpage for more information or www.fafsa.ed.gov to apply. Veteran's assistance with processing your education benefits is available.
What is tuition?
Tuition for graduate education courses is $395 per credit for the 2006-2007 school year. Lutheran Teacher Grants are available for students teaching in Lutheran Schools.
How do I get my textbooks?
Textbooks are available from Concordia's Bookstore. You may call the book store at 262-243-4349 to place an order. When calling, you will need to identify yourself as a graduate education off-campus cohort student and have the following information available:
- Course you are taking: Department and Section number.
- Form of payment to be given over the telephone (MasterCard, Visa, and American Express).
- Shipping address for books. There is a nominal charge to have textbooks mailed to your home.
