College of Adult Education at Concordia University at Austin

Concordia University at Austin is a member of the nationwide Concordia University System of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, we are devoted to the mission of developing Christian leaders. Founded in 1926, Concorida is known for its excellence in education and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) [1446]. The College of Adult Education houses Concordia’s Accelerated Degree Program (ADP).

The Accelerated Degree Program (ADP)

The ADP is a unique model of education that offers adults the chance to attain a degree while attending only one class per week. The ADP is tailor-made for adults with busy lives. ADP courses are intensive, inspiring and designed to put each student’s professional and personal goals on the fast track. Because the ADP features continuous education tracks, students take classes all year long, which increases the rate at which one can earn a degree. The Accelerated Degree Program provides classes in Austin, Houston, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Fredericksburg, Texas.

ADP graduates represent a diverse range of ages, professions and interests, but they all have one thing in common: they realized that it’s never too late to pursue a college degree. College requires an investment of time, energy and financial resources, but a well-focused program with first-rate instructors will reward you for the rest of your life. Concordia is the ideal place for time-crunched adults to make that investment.

The ADP has been helping working adults complete their collegiate deams since 1995. The program is offered through the College of Adult Education, which is dedicated to equipping adult learners to be servant-leaders. The College of Adult Education provides flexible, accelerated educational programs in a caring, Christian environment.

Associate Degree

=Behavioral Science =

Concentrating on human studies, the AA degree provides students with a strong background in the liberal arts. It can stand alone or fulfill the core requirements for a Bachelor degree in one of the majors listed below. Like all ADP degrees, it emphasizes communication skills.

Bachelor of Arts Degrees

= Business =

This major provides a well-rounded introduction to the world of business. While familiarizing students with general business principles, it specializes in developing leadership skills with the goal of better preparing its graduates to become effective, caring, Christian managers.

= Criminal Justice Operations Management =

This major is designed for students interested in the operations and management of criminal justice agencies and focuses on tactical as well as ethical issues that will face any Christian leader entrusted with rehabilitative duties.

= Healthcare Administration =

This major prepares students for the burgeoning healthcare industry. Considerable attention is given to the development of individual ethical positions regarding the complex issues that often arise in this field.

= Human Resources Management =

This major offers an introduction to the myriad of issues facing today's Human Resources manager. The courses are taught by working HR professionals who emphasize the development of Christian leadership skills in diverse work environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Concordia?

Classes conveniently meet one night a week, from 6 to 10 p.m.

Students complete each course in just 4–6 weeks.

Students receive individualized attention in small classes (usually 12–20 students).

Concordia has a long tradition of academic excellence.

Incoming students are grouped into small cohorts, providing a supportive gathering of familiar faces throughout the degree process.

Concordia’s ADP format offers degrees in a variety of fields, from business administration to criminal justice.

Owned and operated by the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, Concordia is built on a cornerstone of Christian compassion and integrity.

How do I earn a degree while earning a living?

Concordia University is proud to offer classes to adult learners in the Austin, Houston, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Fredericksburg, Texas areas. Concordia's Accelerated Degree Program (ADP) allows adults the opportunity to attend classes one evening a week to complete an Associate Degree in Behavioral Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business, Healthcare Administration, Criminal Justice Operations Management or Human Resources Management.

How does ADP work?

ADP consists of a sequence of accelerated courses that allow the student to gain 3 credits every 4-6 weeks. By receiving credits faster, students make rapid progress toward completing their degree. Classes meet only one night a week, which enables students to both continue working fulltime and find time for their families.

How is ADP organized?

Every new student is placed in a cohort, or group of 10-15 students. The cohort members start their sequence of classes together and stay together for the length of the program. This creates a permanent study group and support circle. Classes meet year round, and enrollment can occur at any time during the year.

How else can I earn credits toward my degree?

To fulfill degree requirements more quickly, students can also:

Earn credits (30 hours maximum) by exam via CLEP (College Level Examination Program) tests.

Earn credits (18 hours maximum) from life experience via a Prior Learning Assessment.

Earn credits by taking travel classes offered by Concordia.

Who qualifies for the ADP program?

Successful ADP students are working adults (23 years of age) who have at least two years of work experience, a high level of self-discipline, and the commitment to devote 15-20 hours a week to studying outside the classroom in order to prepare for each class session.

What if I need financial aid?

To apply for a student loan, you may coplete the online application, or contact the Financial Aid Office for additional information (1-800-845-42825). Pell Grants and VA benefits are also available for those who qualify. Note: To receive financial aid, you must be accepted and enrolled into Concordia's program. Concordia also cooperates with companies that offer tuition reimbursement.

How do I apply?

Call Concordia University's ADP office (1-800-285-4252) for an admission packet, download one from our Web site, or apply online by visiting or Web site [1447]. A non-refundable application fee must accompany the completed application form. Applicants are admitted entirely on the basis of academic qualifications and without reference to national origin, creed, race, religion, sex, age or physical disabilities.