700 College Drive, Decorah, Iowa 52101-1042
800-458-8437 |
www.luther.edu |
Financial Aid Information
Founded in 1861, Luther College is a four-year, liberal arts institution of 2,600 students. Located in the picturesque town of Decorah in northeast Iowa, Luther offers more than 60 majors, minors, and pre-professional programs leading to the bachelor of arts degree. A Phi Beta Kappa chapter attests the academic excellence of the college.
Luther’s mission is clear and compelling — to help students connect faith with learning, freedom with responsibility, and life’s work with service. Whereas most colleges Students Passing Under the Statue of Martin Lutherprepare students for successful careers, Luther claims a higher calling — to prepare students to find and fulfill their own higher purpose in life. Luther students are encouraged to embrace lives of discovery and intellectual discipline, and an understanding of vocation as a called life of service.
Luther’s rigorous liberal arts curriculum begins and ends in its unique Paideia program. Paideia I (Greek for “education”) guides first-year students through a yearlong interdisciplinary study of pivotal moments in human history. This common experience helps students build community and integrate learning. Paideia II challenges juniors and seniors to tackle a more specific issue through a course that explores value systems and ethical The Luther Belldecision-making. In between, students develop a breadth of knowledge through the college’s general requirements and a depth of knowledge through a chosen major.
Life in the classroom is coupled with a very active life outside the classroom. Music, theatre, dance, and the visual arts allow Luther students to experience that which is enduring and make connections between mind and spirit. Intercollegiate and recreational sports activities enable students to learn about the values of teamwork and dedication, and develop healthy lifetime wellness pursuits. College ministry opportunities, including daily chapel, Christmas at Luther Collegeweekly Sunday worship, Bible studies, and outreach experiences, assist students in deepening their faith. And Luther’s dynamic study-abroad opportunities, involving over 60 percent of the student body, expand perspectives and change lives.
The transforming power of a Luther education shows up in many ways and in many places. At Beijing University in China, nearly 1,500 audience members pack a performance to listen to the Concert Band. In Alaska, a husband-and-wife team of Luther graduates provides needed social services through AmeriCorps. In Colorado, a recent graduate conducts research on recycling and energy conservation. In countless classrooms throughout the Midwest, Luther graduates inspire students to learn and grow. In the African country of Swaziland, a Luther English faculty member visits students at a high school devoted to promoting peace through education. And in towns and cities around the world, the Luther College class ring starts conversations and establishes connections.