Townsend Institute
Grow personally and professionally through life-changing programs.
Where Service Meets Leadership
The Townsend Institute at Concordia University Irvine offers graduate programs in leadership, executive coaching, and counseling that develop the whole person — professionally, psychologically, and spiritually.
Founded by psychologist and relationship expert Dr. John Townsend, the Institute offers programs taught by top-tier Christian faculty that address both the head and the heart, incorporating scriptural truths with current neuroscience.
In addition to learning from our faculty, you will have the opportunity to learn from Dr. Townsend himself and our Institute Fellows — a world-class team of widely recognized and respected influencers, author-teachers, and practitioners with broad platforms.
Explore our Programs
Find the transformative and motivational degree that’s right for you and your career goals. Use our helpful program finder to search by keyword, degree level, and class format.
About the Townsend Institute Programs
The Townsend Institute offers online graduate degrees and professional certificates in three areas: organizational leadership, executive coaching and consulting, and counseling. Explore our programs to discover how the Institute’s approach goes deeper than behavioral change and moves us to growth.
Available Programs
Graduate Programs
Non-degree Programs
Information Sessions
Join us online live at one of our upcoming Townsend Institute LIVE information sessions and hear from our faculty, academic advisors, current students, and alumni about their experience in the Townsend Institute.
During this live online information session, you will have the opportunity to:
- Ask faculty and fellows your questions about the Institute and our offerings.
- Learn how our counseling and leadership programs can advance your career.
- Connect with other prospective students exploring our programs.
- Become eligible for scholarships and other prizes by participating in our info session.
Contact [email protected] or call (714) 795-0124 with your questions prior to the live Q&A event. Register today!
Townsend Coffee Club
The Townsend Institute Coffee Club continues to pour out student scholarships, delicious coffee, and fun swag. Join our ‘Wise, Honorable, & Caffeinated’ Crew to receive your monthly delivery of our specialty Townsend Institute coffee brewed by friends of the university, Jedidiah Coffee.
About Dr. John Townsend
Dr. John Townsend is a New York Times bestselling author, leadership consultant, psychologist and relationship expert. He has written 35 books, selling 10 million copies, including the bestselling Boundaries series and The Entitlement Cure, an ECPA 2015 Book of the Year finalist.
For more than 20 years, Dr. Townsend has engaged with leaders, organizations, and individuals around the globe, offering them life-changing solutions to their problems. He hosts his own online live video call-in program, “Dr. Townsend Live.” He is also co-host of the nationally-syndicated talk show “New Life Live,” which is heard in 180 markets with 3 million listeners. He is the founder of the Townsend Institute at Concordia University Irvine, and is active and instrumental in its growth.
Dr. Townsend holds a B.A. in Psychology from North Carolina State University, a Master’s in Theology from Dallas Seminary, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Biola University.
Meet Our Faculty and Fellows
Throughout your educational journey at the Townsend Institute, you will have the opportunity to learn from Dr. John Townsend and our distinguished Institute Fellows and faculty. Meet these influential Christian thought leaders and experienced practitioners.
TIPS Podcasts
The Townsend Institute Podcast Series (TIPS) is a podcast geared toward providing past, current, and potential students, as well as the general public, with helpful “TIPs” for their personal and professional lives. Recorded in a conversational tone, but with some research support, listeners will gain insight into popular leadership, coaching and counseling topics. Podcast guests will share their research, experiences and stories.
Ready to Explore Your Future and Faith?
Request more information to learn about our programs, financial aid options, and the Concordia student experience.
Get Started Today
Ready to learn more about Concordia University Irvine?
Complete this form, and an admissions counselor will connect with you.