Concordia provides a variety of educational opportunities for students who are preparing for vocations in the ministry of the church and for various professional and business careers in the community. The program of studies emphasizes a liberal arts curriculum and course offerings provide educational experiences that cultivate personal and vocational skills. The total program is centered in the Christian philosophy with a confessional Lutheran emphasis. It is governed by sound educational standards and is focused on the spiritual, academic, social, and physical development of students.

Concordia University Wisconsin was opened in 1881 at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Classes were taught in the basement of the building, with only 13 students in attendance. One year later, the college, known then as Concordia College, purchased nearby land to install a permanent facility.

Following the installment of current president Rev. Dr. Patrick Ferry, the University saw tremendous growth in enrollment. In less than ten years, the University nearly doubled the size of its undergraduate student body to approximately 1,600. Also expanded were its adult education programs, which soon became among the largest in Lutheran higher education. As of its 125th academic year (2005–2006), Concordia University Wisconsin became the largest Lutheran school in the United States by enrollment.