In this program, Concordia University Chicago's purpose is to guide young men in the process of discernment, while also preparing them for further studies.

Upon receiving your degree, you will be recognized as having completed a program of studies that competently prepares you to attend the seminary of your choice, after graduation. 

Study Format

  • On Campus

Pre-Seminary Program Overview

Concordia-Chicago’s program is a community of young men who support and encourage each other in the faith through study, service and Christ-centered friendships.

This built-in community helps direct your discernment about where the Lord might be leading you in life and ministry.

Our theological faculty is recognized and respected throughout the Church. They are authors of numerous published books, articles and commentaries.

The Pre-Seminary program lead works closely with our students, mentoring their academic, spiritual and personal development. By entering CUC’s program, you will hit the ground running with many mission, ministry and service opportunities—all intended to help you discern whether being a pastor is the right calling for you.

Our Pre-Seminary program offers two degree tracks:

  1. The first degree track is through the College of Theology, Arts & Humanities in which you will take theology and Biblical language courses, while choosing a liberal arts major and minor. 
  1. The second degree track is through the College of Education in which you will follow the secondary education Lutheran teacher education track in addition to the pre-seminary theology and Biblical language courses.

Pre-seminary students select a major either in liberal arts or teacher education. Suggested majors within the liberal arts are theological languages, theology, history, philosophy, English or classical liberal studies. These tracks meet all academic entrance requirements for both LCMS Synodical seminaries. CUC’s depth and breadth of coursework prepares students to enter and excel at the seminary level.

For details about required courses, please visit our online catalog.

Pre-Seminary Opportunities

Concordia University Chicago’s faculty, staff, curriculum, location and library resources enhance the offerings of the Pre-Seminary program.

CUC’s world-class location provides easy access to the cultural, learning and service opportunities of a major city. A rich variety of Lutheran congregations and service organizations exist within an easy distance to the campus. Our library is one of the oldest theological libraries in the Synod, with access to the resources of other major Chicago schools.