Paul Scholars
Concordia’s Work Education Program
In Concordia University, Nebraska’s innovative Paul Scholars work education program, you will join a community that combines academic excellence with real-world work experience to seamlessly integrate classroom learning and practical job skills, fostering a holistic approach to higher education that equips you for servant leadership in the church and world.
What is a Paul Scholar?
Concordia’s Paul Scholars are servant leaders in their workplace from day one. Hard working and driven, Paul Scholars want to make a difference through their careers while leading their future teams, mentoring others and reflecting Christ’s light in the workplace, no matter their future vocations.
As a Paul Scholar, you’ll
- Earn full tuition covered through a combination of Paul Scholar scholarships and job income as you gain experience in your career field.
- Have a variety of work opportunities so you can choose a field you’re passionate about.
- Work with one of our local community partners who will help mentor and guide you to be a servant leader.
- Be part of a community of Paul Scholars, mentors and community partners to help you build a strong business network while you’re still in college.
- Gain confidence in your abilities that will prepare you to lead and serve your future organizations.
- Use your gifts, talents and abilities to glorify God while you learn to lead in your future workplace.
- Gain access to and participate in events and experiences only available to Paul Scholars.
How Does Paul Scholars Work?
The service you provide through your job as a Paul Scholar covers part of the cost of tuition and is applied automatically to your student account. The remaining portion of your tuition is covered by a scholarship awarded through the Paul Scholars program.
“For you shall eat the fruit of your labor of your hands; you will be happy, and it shall be well with you”
(Psalm 128:2)
Apply to be a Paul Scholar
All admitted first-year students enrolling in a four-year program at Concordia are invited to apply. Once you’ve been admitted to Concordia, complete the online application linked below. You must also complete the FAFSA to be considered.
Your application must include:
- The completed application form.
- A video (2 minutes or less) explaining why you’re applying.
- Two letters of recommendation: one from a teacher and one from a non-family member (see the FAQ below for suggested topics)
PLEASE NOTE: Paul Scholars may receive only one tuition scholarship and are not eligible for athletic or performance scholarships. International students (F-1 visa holders) are not eligible due to U.S. work restrictions. Financial need is not required, but will be considered.
Complete the Paul Scholars application
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to be a Paul Scholar?
To be considered for the Paul Scholar program, you must
- be actively involved in activities related to school, church, work and volunteering,
- provide examples of supporting and helping to lead several of these activities,
- demonstrate experience balancing work (or similar) with school and personal responsibilities,
- show how Christian faith and a service mindset are lived out in your everyday life,
- model a strong work ethic/results focus
- and maintain a 3.0 or higher GPA.
PLEASE NOTE: Paul Scholars can only have one tuition scholarship and may not receive other sports or performance scholarships. International students should not apply, since students on an F-1 visa cannot work in the United States. Financial need is not a requirement to apply, however it is considered.
What are the benefits of being a Paul Scholar?
As a Paul Scholar, you’ll earn a tuition-free degree while you gain invaluable experience as a servant leader in the workplace. Your classroom learning is seamlessly integrated with practical job skills, fostering a holistic approach to your higher education.
You’ll also have access to a network of other Paul Scholars, mentors, employer partners and Concordia faculty and staff that will help you navigate your academics and work experience and prepare you for your vocations after college.
Will I still be able to have a full college experience while working and taking classes?
Yes! Most college students work a part-time job to earn money. As a Paul Scholar, your work experience is built into your academic experience. You’ll still have time to participate in on-campus activities, hang out with friends and have a normal college experience.
Will I have to commute far away for my job?
During your first two years, you will serve on Concordia’s campus. In years three and four, you’ll work with Concordia’s local employer partners and mentors, most often in positions near Seward. Depending on your career goals, you may be placed in a nearby community, and we’ll always collaborate with you to ensure your placement is the best fit for your skills and interests.
Do I get to pick my job?
We want you to work in an area that excites you and supports your future career. During your third and fourth years, our Concordia staff will collaborate with you to find a placement that aligns with your career goals, is conveniently located and helps you grow as a servant leader. The director will consider input from you and your on-campus work mentor to make the best possible match. (During your first two years, your on-campus work may not be directly related to your major, but it will still provide valuable experience.)
What does the scholarship cover?
The four-year, full tuition scholarship covers your major and minor academic coursework up to 18 credits per semester. All institutional aid, along with federal and state grants, will be applied to the cost of tuition. The remaining balance is covered through the Paul Scholar Program scholarship over four years. Students may use all other outside scholarships and grants as part of a plan to cover additional college expenses like room/board, books, fees etc. For specific questions on this, please contact aaron.roberts@cune.edu.
Questions?
For questions about the Paul Scholar program, email PaulScholars@cune.edu.
Paul Scholars Community Partners
The Paul Scholars Work Education Program at Concordia University, Nebraska offers a unique opportunity for local employers to partner in developing the next generation of leaders in the church and world while gaining immediate benefits to your business or nonprofit through access to talented, motivated student workers.