Concordia University Irvine

Concordia University Irvine (CUI) is a private Lutheran university located in Irvine, California, United States. Established in 1976, CUI is part of the Concordia University System and is dedicated to providing a challenging education with a global focus. The university emphasizes a rigorous core curriculum and offers excellent international student services, fostering a family-like environment where international students are fully integrated into campus life.

Academics

Concordia University Irvine offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate programs across five schools: Christ College (School of Theology), School of Arts and Sciences, School of Business, School of Education, and School of Professional Studies. Notable programs include Nursing, Business, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, and Psychology. The university emphasizes a core curriculum designed to develop critical thinking skills and offers small class sizes with one-on-one faculty mentoring. Many degrees can be completed online, providing flexibility for students.

International Students

CUI provides comprehensive support services for international students, integrating them into the campus community. The Moon International Center serves as a resource for academic success and social development, valuing the diverse perspectives international students bring. International students are required to maintain full-time enrollment and can receive assistance with F1 visa processes and employment authorization. While specific diversity statistics for international students vary, students from 48 countries are represented, with China, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea being the top countries of origin.

Campus & Location

Concordia University Irvine is situated on a 70-acre plateau in Irvine, California, approximately 50 miles south of Los Angeles and 6 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. Irvine is recognized as one of the safest cities of its size in the United States. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, and its location in Southern California provides access to diverse cultural sites, museums, beaches, and attractions like Disneyland and Hollywood. On-campus housing is available, with options for special housing for disabled and international students.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Concordia University Irvine demonstrate solid career outcomes. One year after graduation, 91% of students are employed and not attending school, with this figure at 89% after five years. The median earnings for graduates one year after graduation are approximately $36,427, increasing to $45,519 after five years. The university's alumni often secure positions in fields such as education, business, and healthcare, with mid-career earnings potentially reaching $70,000–$90,000 annually. CUI's career services and industry connections, particularly within Orange County's tech and healthcare sectors, contribute to these positive outcomes.