CUC Jump Start 2021

Online Orientation

Welcome to Concordia University Chicago! In order to help you prepare for the first semester at CUC, you are required to complete Jumpstart.

This virtual orientation, through a series of modules, will introduce you to a variety of campus faculty and staff, understand academic policies and procedures, learn about the many support resources, and become familiar with the different programs, activities, and service opportunities offered to enhance your CUC experience.

Prior to your scheduled Jump Start, you will have the opportunity to meet with your academic advisor and representatives from the Financial Aid and Business Services’ departments.

Jump Start for Transfer Students

As a transfer student, we know you’ve chosen CUC for very specific reasons.  While you’ve gained experience as a college student, CUC is unique in its character, policies and resources. To help you become better acquainted with the CUC campus, all transfer students are required to attend an orientation program called Jump Start. 

Transfer Jump Start is a virtual orientation designed specifically for you.  We understand you may have previously experienced other orientation programs in the past.  However, the CUC Jump Start program gives you the opportunity to gain important information about CUC.  You will feel more familiar with the campus, understand the policies and procedures and learn how to access the many resources available to help you succeed.

Do you plan to begin at CUC in the fall 2021 term? 

Fall 2021 classes begin Monday, August 30, 2021. In preparation, all new students are required to attend a half-day, virtual transfer orientation program.  The following Jump Start dates are specifically designed for the transfer student:

  • Thursday, July 15
  • Friday, August 6

Through a series of modules, this virtual orientation will introduce you to a variety of campus faculty and staff, help you understand academic policies and procedures, learn about the many support resources, and become familiar with the different programs, activities, and service opportunities offered at CUC. Prior to your scheduled Jump Start session, you will connect with your academic advisor, Financial aid and a Business Service representative.

Please do not hesitate to ask questions, or share concerns. The Concordia Chicago staff and faculty aim to make your transition as smooth as possible.

 Registration will open Feb. 1, 2021

Summer 2021 Transfer Jump Start Dates: 

Program Sessions Registration Deadlines
Thursday, July 15 Thursday, July 8
Friday, Aug. 6 Friday, July 30


Download your CUC Transfer Checklist (PDF) to review what you need to do to prepare for enrollment in the Fall 2021 semester.

Transfer Jump Start is a virtual orientation that includes presentations and sessions to help you:   

  • Introduce you to a variety of campus faculty and staff
  • Become familiar with CUC connect, Blackboard, Banner (CUCV computer programs)
  • Understand academic policies and procedures
  • Understand what documents need to be submitted
  • Learn about the many support resources available to aid in your academic success
  • Inform you about the many programs, activities and service opportunities offered
  • Complete the math placement exam (if applicable)

Prior to your scheduled Jump Start, you will meet with your academic advisor and representatives from Financial Aid and Business Services’ departments.

Winter Jump Start

To help you become better acquainted with CUC, new students are required to attend virtual orientation program called Jump Start. Our Winter Jump Start is designed especially to give students who enroll for the Spring Term the opportunity to get a “Jump Start” on their CUC experience.

On Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021, before classes begin, this half day, virtual, program is designed to assist with your transition to Concordia.

Through a series of modules, this virtual orientation will introduce you to a variety of campus faculty and staff, understand academic policies and procedures, learn about the many support resources, and become familiar with the different programs, activities, and service opportunities offered to enhance your CUC experience.

Jump Start orientation includes opportunities to:

  • Introduce you to a variety of campus faculty and staff
  • Become familiar with CUC connect, Blackboard, Banner (CUCV computer programs)
  • Understand academic policies and procedures
  • Understand what documents need to be submitted
  • Learn about the many support resources available to aid in your academic success
  • Hear about the many programs, activities and service opportunities offered
  • Complete the math placement exam (if applicable)

* Prior to your scheduled Jump Start, you will have meet with your academic advisor and representatives from Financial Aid and Business Services’ department

Program Sessions

  • Welcome - In this section, you will hear from University President Dr. Dawn, other University administrators and student leaders.
  • Technology - In this section, you will learn about Cougar Net (University help desk), the Concordia Connect portal, and the Blackboard system requirements.
  • Academic Resources - In this section, you will hear an introduction by Provost Dr. Ankerberg, information related to academic advising, student business services, and financial aid.
  • Support Services - In this section, you will learn about the Academic Center for Excellence, and how to request academic support services.
  • Policies and Expectations - In this section, you will learn about the student code of conduct, the academic honor code, Title IX, and FERPA.
  • Spiritual life - In this section, you will learn about the faith life at Concordia and ways to become involved.
  • Student Life and Campus Involvement - In this section, learn about the many clubs and activities, participating in multicultural programs, and residential living.

Jump Start Resources

There is no cost to participate in the Jump Start orientation

Parents of our new students are an important part of the Concordia University Community.  

Parent Involvement

There are many opportunities for families to be a part of their students’ life, even if they living on campus or commute. Some of the ways parent(s) can be involved include volunteering for events and or attending special programs.

Stay up to date  on what's happening at CUC. 

Email joan.henehan@cuchicago.edu to receive updates and information at CUC and your student. Allow us to connect and answer any questions or concerns you may have about your student’s general well-being. This allows family members to connect with staff specifically about their student. (FERPA rules apply).