Focused on Formation
Cost should never stand in the way of faithful preparation. Prepared to Serve allows students in church professional programs to concentrate on their studies and spiritual growth as they prepare for their calling.
What the Guarantee Means for You
For many students who are thinking about church work, worries about paying for college can feel heavy. We do not want money questions to stand in the way of God’s calling. As you prepare for a church professional career, we want the decision to feel clear so you can focus on what matters most: your classes, spiritual growth and hands-on ministry experience.
Each year, you can clearly see how your tuition is calculated. We begin with published tuition, then apply eligible state and federal aid along with institutional scholarships. External scholarships from Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) districts, congregations and ministry partners may further reduce your cost. Total financial assistance may not exceed the cost of attendance.
After all eligible aid is applied, Prepared to Serve ensures that your tuition and mandatory fees do not exceed $5,000 per year. The guarantee is renewable for up to four years, provided you maintain satisfactory academic progress, giving you confidence as you prepare to serve.
Eligibility and Program Details
Who Qualifies
- LCMS freshmen or transfer students
- Pursuing a church professional major
- Full-time enrollment
- FAFSA required
- Meets CUC admission requirements
- International students are not eligible
What to Expect
- Tuition and mandatory fees are capped at $5,000 per year
- Renewable up to four years with satisfactory academic progress
- External scholarships may stack up to the full cost of attendance
- Room and board not included
- Course fees and non-mandatory fees not included, such as parking
Church Professional Programs Covered
Faculty and students share how Prepared to Serve makes a difference.
Prepared to Serve supports the LCMS
Set Apart to Serve initiative and applies to
the following undergraduate programs:
Student and Faculty Spotlights
Stories of discernment and mentorship within CUC’s church professional programs.
Harrison Robbins ‘27
Theology Major | Pre-Seminary Preparing for pastoral ministry
Deaconess Frances Szeto
University Deaconess | Deaconess Studies
Rev. Dr. Kirk Clayton
Asst. Prof. of Theology | Director, Pre-Seminary Program
I’ve wanted to be a deaconess since I was 10. When I learned CUC had a full deaconess program, I applied. I figured, if I want to be a deaconess, why go anywhere else?”
”Macy Froetschner ’27
I’m going to be a pastor, and both academically and spiritually I need to be prepared because then I can help to preach the faith and be there for others. I think those skills are definitely being taught to me at CUC.
”Will Schleuter ’26 | Theology major, pre-seminary
A lot of the best teachers I had, growing up in Lutheran schools, have all come out of CUC, so I wanted to follow in their footsteps.
”Jordan Meier ‘26 | Secondary education–social studies, Lutheran Teacher Education (LTE) major
I am deeply thankful for the Prepared to Serve program. Just as important are the mentoring relationships that guide them along their path as they prepare for a lifetime of service.
”Rev. Dr. Charles R. Schulz | Professor of theology and classical Lutheran education program leader
Supporting Future Church Professionals
Through the generosity of donors, CUC keeps a Christ-centered education affordable for students preparing for church professions.
To learn how you can support these students, please contact the CUC Foundation.