Concordia University, Portland (CUP), a private Lutheran Christian university located in Portland, Oregon, offered a range of academic and administrative jobs until its closure in spring 2023. Nestled in the dynamic city of Portland, known for its innovative spirit and natural beauty, CUP attracted educators and professionals passionate about faith-integrated higher education. Jobs at Concordia University, Portland spanned faculty positions, staff roles, and leadership opportunities, emphasizing teaching excellence, community service, and Christian values.
Although no new jobs at Concordia University, Portland are available post-closure, this guide explores the types of positions once offered, required qualifications, and skills that remain valuable for similar roles at other institutions. Portland's thriving higher education scene, including nearby universities, provides comparable opportunities. For current openings, explore Portland academic jobs or higher ed jobs.
Founded in 1905 as a Lutheran seminary by the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, Concordia University, Portland evolved into a comprehensive university serving around 5,000 students at its peak. It expanded in the 20th century to include undergraduate and graduate programs in education, business, theology, nursing, and more. The campus, spanning 42 acres along the Willamette River, fostered a close-knit community blending rigorous academics with spiritual growth.
Throughout its history, CUP prioritized jobs that supported its mission of preparing servant-leaders. Faculty jobs at Concordia University, Portland often involved innovative teaching methods, such as blended learning and service-learning projects tied to Portland's nonprofits. The institution grew significantly in the 2010s with online programs, creating demand for adjunct professors and instructional designers. Financial pressures from the COVID-19 pandemic and enrollment declines led to the closure announcement on February 22, 2023, marking the end of 118 years of service.
This legacy influences job markets in Oregon, where former CUP employees now contribute to regional education, highlighting transferable skills like curriculum development and student mentoring.
Concordia University, Portland offered over 30 majors and numerous graduate degrees, driving diverse job categories. Key programs included Doctor of Education (EdD), Master of Education (MEd), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and business administration.
Administrative jobs at Concordia University, Portland included admissions counselors, who recruited diverse student bodies, and student affairs staff organizing faith-based events. For insights into various university job types, visit our guide. Research assistants supported grant-funded projects in education technology, while executive roles like deans oversaw program accreditation.
Salaries for full-time faculty averaged $70,000-$90,000 annually, competitive for Portland's cost of living, with benefits including tuition remission for dependents.
To understand jobs at Concordia University, Portland fully, here are essential terms:
Jobs at Concordia University, Portland demanded specific credentials tailored to roles.
Required Academic Qualifications: Tenure-track faculty needed a PhD or EdD in the relevant field (e.g., PhD in Curriculum and Instruction for education professors). Adjuncts typically held a master's degree. Administrative roles required bachelor's degrees plus certifications, like SHRM for HR managers.
Research Focus or Expertise Needed: Emphasis on practical research, such as educational leadership, faith integration in STEM, or community health nursing. Publications in journals like the Journal of Lutheran Education were valued.
Preferred Experience: 3-5 years of college-level teaching, grant writing (e.g., from Oregon Department of Education), and conference presentations. Experience with diverse learners or online platforms like Canvas was a plus.
Skills and Competencies:
These align with broader professor jobs and prepare candidates for research jobs.
Prior to closure, the application process for jobs at Concordia University, Portland began with online submissions via the university's career portal. Candidates uploaded a CV, cover letter highlighting faith alignment, teaching philosophy statement, and three references. Interviews included teaching demonstrations and panel discussions with faith leaders.
Actionable Tips:
For similar processes, review how to become a university lecturer. Use our free resume template and cover letter template.
Concordia University, Portland actively pursued diversity despite its faith-based roots. Initiatives included the Diversity Council, which advised on equitable hiring, and scholarships for underrepresented students, indirectly supporting diverse faculty mentorships. The university hosted annual Diversity Weeks with speakers on cultural competency and partnered with Portland's Black Student Union networks.
Specific examples: Recruitment drives targeting first-generation scholars and women in STEM, plus training on unconscious bias for search committees. By 2022, 25% of faculty identified as ethnic minorities, above some peers. These efforts modeled inclusive excellence for jobs at Concordia University, Portland.
Campus life at Concordia University, Portland balanced professional demands with personal well-being. Employees enjoyed flexible schedules, especially adjuncts, and generous PTO (up to 25 days annually). Wellness programs included free gym access, counseling, and chaplaincy services for spiritual support.
Portland's location enhanced life: Proximity to Forest Park for hikes, food cart pods for lunches, and bike-friendly commutes. Staff events like family picnics and holiday vespers built community. Remote options emerged post-2020, aiding parents. Former employees praised the supportive culture, with low burnout rates compared to urban peers.
Childcare partnerships and sabbaticals for faculty promoted sustainability, key for long-term careers in higher ed.
Professional growth at CUP included workshops on grant writing and leadership academies. Many advanced to deanships or external roles. Post-closure, alumni networks sustain connections via Portland higher ed groups.
In summary, while jobs at Concordia University, Portland have ended, the skills gained—teaching innovation, faith leadership—open doors elsewhere. Search higher ed jobs, career advice, university jobs, or post a job to connect with opportunities. Explore employer branding secrets or postdoc success for next steps.
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