In the very heart of Edmonton lies one of the region’s most prestigious universities: Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE). This small yet ambitious university blends high-quality education with a personalized approach to each student and a warm, welcoming community where everyone feels like they belong. Whether you’re seeking deep academic knowledge or looking to retrain professionally, CUE could be the ideal choice for you. Read on for more details on edmonton1.one.
University History
Concordia University of Edmonton was founded in 1921 as Concordia College. It was initially established by the Lutheran Church to prepare young men for preaching and teaching within the church. For many years, the institution operated as a high school.
In 1939, co-education was introduced, and the college began offering general academic courses alongside its accredited high school program. It wasn’t until 1967 that Concordia started providing university-level courses in cooperation with the University of Alberta.
In 1988, the university graduated its first cohort from three-year Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science programs. Gradually, this expanded to four-year programs. The official separation of the high school and college occurred in 1994.
The collaboration with the University of Alberta formally concluded in 1991. In 1995, the institution finally changed its name to Concordia University College of Alberta, alongside Concordia High School. It wasn’t until 2014 that the Alberta government permitted the institution to drop “College” from its name, officially becoming Concordia University of Edmonton.
The university’s original coat of arms was created in 1921 and was actively used until 1991. However, with the removal of “College” from the name, a new emblem was needed. A new logo debuted in 2010, featuring the grand entrance to the historic Schwermann Hall and curved lines symbolizing the North Saskatchewan River.
University Reforms
Over time, the university gradually shifted its identity away from being solely a Christian institution, although it maintains relationships with Lutheran organizations. Official secularization took place in 2016.
In January 2022, the university experienced an 11-day faculty strike over issues concerning pay and workload. As a result, the start of the winter semester was delayed until January 19. The faculty union also expressed a vote of no confidence in the university’s president.
University Programs and Student Life Today
The university offers a diverse range of engaging academic programs, structured across five faculties and two distinct schools: the Faculty of Education, Faculty of Management, Faculty of Graduate Studies, Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Science, as well as the School of Physical Education and Wellness, and the School of Music. On campus, you’ll also find a daycare and a Lutheran seminary.
Student life at CUE is vibrant and engaging. Students regularly perform, participate in theatrical productions, sing in choirs, and much more. The campus features three student residences and two residences specifically for postgraduate students. Additionally, there’s a large gymnasium and outdoor sports fields. In the past, the university’s football field even served as a training ground for the Edmonton Elks football team.
Concordia University of Edmonton stands as an excellent example of an educational institution that preserves its historical legacy while adapting to the contemporary demands of education. For over a century, faculty and students have collaborated to create a supportive environment for learning, creativity, and growth. This university has every chance of becoming the place where your own great story begins.