Concordia University-Saint Paul

With an 18:1 student-faculty ratio and nearly half of classes under 20 students, CSP blends small-campus attention with pragmatic degree options. Its 90-credit, three-year bachelor’s programs (versus the traditional 120 credits) cater to career-minded students, while standout departments include:

• Nursing: High NCLEX pass rates and clinical partnerships with Twin Cities hospitals.
• Business: Emphasizes real-world applications, with tracks like actuarial science.
• Kinesiology: Hands-on labs and strong ties to local sports organizations.

The university recently launched a career portfolio initiative, requiring all students to compile professional artifacts—résumés, project samples—before graduation. Online and hybrid options are robust, particularly for graduate students.

Only 15% of students live on campus, with most opting for off-campus housing in Saint Paul’s affordable neighborhoods. The Winget Student Life Center anchors social activity, hosting DII athletics (Golden Bears compete in the NSIC) and 30+ clubs—from ministry groups to improv comedy. Key quirks:

• Faith Integration: Daily chapel services and Lutheran traditions, though the student body includes diverse denominations.
• Urban Perks: Free metro passes provide access to Minneapolis-St. Paul’s music scenes and internships.
• Commuter-Friendly: Late-night dining options and flexible study spaces cater to working students.

CSP’s 61% six-year graduation rate edges slightly above the national average for private colleges. Alumni earnings are mixed but trend upward:

• Early-Career Median Salary: $53,793 (outpacing the $36,321 national median).
• Nursing Grads: Report particularly strong job placement, with 10-year earnings nearing $60,000.
• Debt Burden: Graduates typically owe $12,166—well below the Minnesota private college average.

The university’s career services emphasize local employer connections, with 45% of graduates remaining in the Twin Cities metro.

At $44,900 sticker price (tuition + fees + room/board), CSP undercuts many Minnesota privates. However, 99% of first-years receive aid, slashing the average net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. to $17,989. Key details:

• Merit Scholarships: Automatic awards for GPAs as low as 2.5, maxing at $7,000/year.
• Grants: 85% of students qualify for need-based aid?Need-based aidFinancial aid awarded based on your family's ability to pay, as measured by forms like the FAFSA, rather than on achievements., averaging $16,000 annually.
• Tuition Freeze: Guaranteed rate locks for continuous full-time enrollment.

The net price calculator flags hidden costs: books and supplies average $1,200/year, and health insurance is mandatory unless waived.

CSP excels at serving non-traditional students without sacrificing undergraduate community. Its three-year degrees and evening/weekend courses attract working adults, while DII sports and campus ministries retain a classic college vibe. The Lutheran affiliation manifests more in service opportunities (e.g., urban outreach programs) than rigid doctrine. For Twin Cities students seeking affordability and career alignment—especially in healthcare—it’s a pragmatic pick.