5 Things to Consider During Your College Search

At Concordia University Texas, we understand how overwhelming the college search can be. There are so many factors to consider, from cost and location to student life and career opportunities.

That's why we've created a list of five important things you should consider when searching for the college or university that's right for you.

1. Do I Want to Go to a Faith-Based University?

Faith-based institutions offer you the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills for your vocation while growing in your faith.

Concordia University Texas is a Christian university that is aligned with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. In addition to exemplary academic programs, we offer a variety of ways to support you in your walk with Christ.

During the fall and spring semesters, Concordia offers daily chapel, and our chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes meets regularly. Student Ministry & Missions offers you the opportunity to participate in local community service and global mission trips. Plus, The Refuge, our student-led worship, takes place every Thursday night during the fall and spring semesters.

2. What Do I Want to Study?

An effective way to filter through colleges and universities is to determine what you want to study. You can easily eliminate options that don't offer programs for the fields in which you are interested.

It's also important to determine the type of degree you want to earn. The two primary types of bachelor's degrees are the Bachelor of Arts (BA) and the Bachelor of Science (BS). The BA allows you more flexibility to explore a variety of fields, while the BS equips you with greater technical knowledge, requiring more courses in mathematics, science and technology.

There are more than 20 majors at CTX with multiple concentrations, specializations and minors that allow you to further customize your degree.

3. What's the Right Class Size?

Often overlooked, class size is an incredibly important factor to consider because it directly impacts how you will learn.

The lower-level classes at a majority of large universities typically have hundreds of students, while upper-level courses generally have much smaller classes. Small universities tend to have much smaller class sizes for all courses.

	Pros	Cons
Large Class Size	Learn without fear of being called on to respond Connect with more students	Inability to ask questions in class Limited to no direct interaction with professors More temptation to lose focus
Small Class Size	Ability to participate in class discussions Can get to know professors	Requires more in-class participation from students Inability to "blend into the crowd"

Concordia has an average class size of 15 students, and the largest classes never have more than 30 or 40 students. Because of our small class sizes, CTX students enjoy rich discussions in the classroom and have the opportunity to interact one-on-one with their instructors. Because professors have the ability to get to know each student, they can provide all students with individual support.

4. What's the Most Effective Way I Learn?

Learning in person is much different than learning online. In-person learning offers a structured schedule and requires face-to-face interaction with professors and students. Online learning offers more flexibility but requires more self-discipline to complete coursework.

If you learn most effectively by asking questions and engaging in discussions, in-person learning is a better option. It's also a better option if you need a structured schedule to keep you accountable and focused on completing coursework.

If you have a hectic work schedule, take care of family members or both, online learning offers you much more flexibility. You can create a schedule that best fits your needs. Also, online tuition generally costs less than in-person tuition.

CTX offers both in-person and online learning. Our approach is unique because you will receive individualized attention, regardless of the way you choose to learn.

5. What Kind of Career Preparation Does the Institution Offer?

It's a privilege to attend a university and gain new knowledge and skills, but it's important to remember the ultimate purpose of a college degree — to prepare you for your vocation. Make sure to consider the resources a university offers to help you prepare for life beyond graduation.

Vocation & Professional Development, Concordia's career center, offers a full range of services to help you prepare for your vocation:

• Career exploration to determine potential occupations
• Interview preparation and resume assistance
• Job search support, including internships and full-time roles

Additionally, departments across the University host events and speaker series where you can network with business and community leaders without leaving campus.