Paul Scholars
Concordia’s Work Education Program
In Concordia University, Nebraska’s innovative Paul Scholars work education program, you'll join an academic community that combines academic excellence with real-world work experience. Integrate classroom learning and practical job skills to prepare you for servant leadership in the church and world.
What is a Paul Scholar?
Concordia’s Paul Scholars are servant leaders from day one, driven to make a difference in their careers, mentor others and reflect Christ’s light in any vocation. The program helps you grow your people skills, making your technical abilities even more valuable. Through your work as a Paul Scholar, you’ll cover part of your tuition, with the remaining portion supported by a scholarship awarded through the program.
As a Paul Scholar, you will:
- Earn full tuition covered through job income and scholarship support.
- Gain real-world experience by working with local employer partners in fields that match your interests.
- Participate in ongoing, part-time work throughout your time at Concordia to strengthen your resume and professional skills.
- Receive mentoring and leadership development as you grow into a Christ-centered servant leader.
- Join a supportive network of peers, professionals and mentors who help you build confidence and connections.
- Access exclusive events and experiences designed for Paul Scholars.
Apply to the Paul Scholars Community
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
“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)
Paul Scholars Courses
As a Paul Scholar, you’ll earn a vocational leadership minor, an 18-credit hour program woven throughout your four years at Concordia.
View courses in the academic catalog
VCLD 101 Becoming a Vocational Leader
In this introductory course, first-year students connect essential habits of an effective Team Member with work, service and learning. We will define support teams, expectations and strategies to help each other thrive in school and work as men and women of Christ. First year students begin applying key course principles with their campus work mentor as part of our Work Learning Lab central to the program.
VCLD 102 A Biblical View of Work, Vocation, and Faith
Building upon the foundations of VCLD 101, students explore the intersection of work, vocation, service and faith through a Biblical lens. Addressing the modern division between sacred and secular, students learn to become agents of positive change and faith in various aspects of life. The Work Learning Lab continues to provide a practical context for applying course principles within the campus workplace.
VCLD 201 Vocational Followership 1
Students further refine their understanding of serving God’s purposes in various contexts, both within the church and the broader world. Students continue building on work and vocation talents within a Team Member mindset. Emphasizing collaborative teamwork, students begin to support their peers within the program and assist in selecting the next cohort. The Work Learning Lab remains central to the program, offering opportunities for practical application in the campus work placement.
VCLD 202 Vocational Followership 2
Continuing their vocational journey, students develop personalized pathways for serving within their chosen professions. Guided by current and historical examples in this field, students refine their vocational styles and explore leadership roles within the program. Students partner with Senior Scholar mentors to manage events, promote the program and prepare for off-campus work placement the following year. The Work Learning Lab remains an integral component, facilitating real-world application of course principles.
VCLD 301 Vocational Leadership 1
This course transitions students from being a Team Member to growth as a leader within their vocation and profession. Each scholar is assessed and provided feedback as an emerging leader to define personal and team goals for work, service and learning. Students explore organizational behavior and strategies for effective collaboration within diverse workplaces. Students collect and analyze workplace data to document personal and team growth in the program. As third year students, they also mentor freshmen students through their first year, helping them apply classroom learning to their Work Learning Lab experience.
VCLD 401 Vocational Leadership 2
Serving as the capstone experience of the Vocational Leadership minor, this course highlights a senior project where students analyze key leadership trends in their field. Students develop strategies to shape their workplace using their unique talents and Christian faith. Through off-site work experiences and mentorship, students refine their leadership skills and explore post-graduation vocational and career pathways. Seniors also mentor second year students in all aspects of event planning and hosting, culminating in a capstone presentation at the Spring Celebration Dinner with community partners and students from all cohorts.
Paul Scholars Employer 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.
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.
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