Concordia University Texas

Concordia’s academic offerings are flexible but lean heavily toward practical fields, with business administration (31% of degrees) and liberal arts (49%) dominating the majors. The university emphasizes customizable programs, allowing students to pair majors with concentrations or pre-professional tracks (like pre-law or pre-med). The student-faculty ratio is 16:1, though freshman retention sits at a concerning 62%—well below national averages. Theology is a standout department, with faculty praising the ‘enriching environment’ for faith-based learning. Graduate programs exist but are overshadowed by undergraduate offerings, which stress ‘lifelong learning, leadership, and service’—a nod to its Lutheran mission.

Life at Concordia Texas revolves around faith, friendships, and Austin’s off-campus scene. The university promotes a ‘warm community’ with events like intramural sports and clubs facilitated by the Office of Student Activities (followed avidly on Instagram as @ctxstudentlife). While there’s no Greek life, the school’s Lutheran identity shapes campus culture, including theology-focused discussions and service projects. A 1939-41 archival film shows a tradition of close-knit gatherings that persists today. Many students take advantage of Austin’s music and food scene, though the suburban campus (on 389 acres near the Hill Country) offers its own hiking trails and lake views. Dorms are standard fare, with no notable housing controversies reported.

Graduation rates are Concordia’s Achilles’ heel: only 41% of students finish their degrees, placing it in the bottom 20% nationally. First-year persistence is slightly better at 63%, but earnings post-graduation are modest—alumni median income one year out is $36,427, roughly matching state averages for small private colleges. The university doesn’t highlight employer partnerships or notable alumni networks, though its career services emphasize ‘service-oriented’ outcomes aligned with Lutheran values. Students seeking strong ROI might struggle; those prioritizing faith integration over prestige may find it fits.

Tuition sits at $23,621 after aid (average package: $36,500), though the 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. calculator suggests many students pay far less. Concordia heavily markets its affordability for a private school, with grants and scholarships covering significant chunks of costs—especially for those demonstrating financial need. Aid applications are due June 30, and the university encourages using their ‘shopping sheet’ tool to estimate costs. Still, with middling graduation rates, the value proposition hinges on how much students prioritize its faith-based environment over long-term earnings potential.

Concordia Texas carves a niche as a faith-forward, low-pressure alternative to Austin’s larger universities. Its Lutheran identity infuses everything from theology classes to student activities, offering a close community for those seeking it. The flexibility to mix business or liberal arts majors with pre-professional tracks appeals to pragmatic students, though academic rigor isn’t its selling point. For the right student—someone valuing spiritual growth, small classes, and Austin’s off-campus perks over prestige or robust outcomes—it’s a singular option. Just don’t expect the brand recognition of its namesake in Nebraska.