The Director of Christian Outreach program prepares students to lead, train, equip and encourage others in the various facets of outreach ministry in congregations and throughout the world. The DCO program at Concordia is the only program of its kind in the Concordia University System and is well-respected outside of the Lutheran Church- Missouri Synod.

Students learn to plan and facilitate meaningful strategies for the church to reach out to those without a saving faith in Jesus. They do so by exploring many different facets of outreach - cultures, generations, and rural, suburban and urban ministries. Students also compare the North American and foreign mission fields. Partnerships with local congregations, national mission organizations and the U4C School of Urban Studies in Minneapolis provide a unique and valuable living laboratory in the midst of one of the most diverse populations in the nation. These experiences are facilitated by skilled Concordia faculty who are accessible, supportive and encouraging and who have extensive experience in the field.

Students who find fulfillment in this area of study typically have a heart to reach others with the good news of Jesus Christ and desire to serve as advocates for people who are outside of a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. They also have a desire to train and equip those already in the church and serve as mentors to students.