North Park University Profile

North Park University, founded in 1891, has become a significant institution in the landscape of higher education, offering a diverse array of academic programs and opportunities for students seeking a comprehensive liberal arts education. Located on the north side of Chicago, Illinois, the university enjoys the advantages of its urban setting, providing students with a rich array of cultural, professional, and social experiences that complement their academic studies. North Park University is deeply committed to preparing students for meaningful lives of leadership, service, and faith, integrating these values into its programs across various disciplines.

Over the years, North Park University has continued to evolve and expand its academic offerings, reflecting the changing needs of students and the world. The university provides a wide range of undergraduate majors, concentrations, pre-professional programs, and certificates, giving students the flexibility to tailor their educational experience to their interests and career goals. While it has a strong emphasis on the liberal arts and sciences, North Park University is also renowned for its specialized programs in areas such as nursing, music, business, and nonprofit management.

One of the university's most prominent academic offerings is its School of Nursing, which provides multiple pathways for students seeking to pursue careers in healthcare. The school offers a pre-licensure baccalaureate nursing program, which is designed for students who want to become registered nurses (RNs) and enter the healthcare workforce after graduation. Additionally, North Park's School of Nursing has an RN-completion program, allowing current registered nurses who hold an associate's degree to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The university also offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for those seeking advanced education in the field. The nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring that they meet the high standards of academic and professional excellence required in the field of nursing. The nursing school at North Park University provides students with both theoretical knowledge and clinical experience, ensuring that they are well-prepared to provide compassionate and competent care in diverse healthcare settings.

In addition to nursing, the School of Music at North Park University stands out for its rigorous programs and commitment to excellence in music education. The school offers a variety of undergraduate degrees for students pursuing careers in music, including the Bachelor of Music in Education (Instrumental, Voice, or Piano), the Bachelor of Music in Performance, the Bachelor of Music in Composition, and the Bachelor of Music in Music in Worship. For students who are interested in music as an academic discipline rather than as a profession, the university also offers a Bachelor of Arts in Music. The School of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), ensuring that its programs meet the high standards set by the national body governing music education. North Park’s School of Music is known for its dedication to fostering both technical skill and creative expression, preparing students for careers in music education, performance, composition, worship leadership, and more. Students in the School of Music not only receive top-tier instruction in music theory, history, and performance, but they also benefit from the vibrant music scene of Chicago, which offers ample opportunities for performances, collaborations, and professional development.

For adult learners, North Park University provides an excellent opportunity through its School of Adult Learning (SAL). This school is designed for students who are pursuing higher education later in life, whether they are looking to complete an undergraduate degree or pursue advanced studies. The SAL offers the Bachelor of General Studies and the Bachelor of Arts, both of which allow students to tailor their education to their interests and career objectives. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for adult learners who may have work or family commitments that prevent them from pursuing a traditional college education. North Park's SAL recognizes the value of life experience and offers a supportive environment for adult students to complete their degree programs while balancing other responsibilities. This emphasis on adult education speaks to North Park University’s broader commitment to inclusivity and its recognition that education is a lifelong pursuit.

North Park’s School of Business and Nonprofit Management offers graduate programs designed to help students develop leadership skills for careers in business and nonprofit sectors. The university offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Management, Master of Nonprofit Administration, and Master of Human Resource Management, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Business and Economics. The business programs at North Park University are accredited by the International Assembly of Collegiate Business Education (IACBE), ensuring that they adhere to high standards of academic quality. These programs are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in their respective fields, with a strong emphasis on ethical decision-making, strategic thinking, and social responsibility. The faculty in the School of Business and Nonprofit Management brings both academic expertise and practical experience to the classroom, providing students with a well-rounded education that combines theory and practice.

In addition to its specialized programs, North Park University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences. The university’s commitment to a liberal arts education is reflected in its broad-based curriculum, which encourages students to explore diverse fields of study and develop skills in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. Whether students are majoring in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, or mathematics, North Park’s approach to education emphasizes the integration of knowledge across disciplines, helping students gain a deeper understanding of the world and their place in it. The university encourages students to engage with complex societal issues and challenges, equipping them with the tools to become informed and responsible citizens.

North Park University’s commitment to excellence is reflected not only in its academic programs but also in its accreditation status. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which ensures that it meets the rigorous standards required of a high-quality institution of higher learning. This accreditation is a hallmark of North Park’s dedication to providing students with a meaningful and comprehensive education. Furthermore, the university's individual programs, such as its nursing, business, and music programs, have earned specialized accreditations from prestigious organizations in their respective fields, ensuring that students receive a top-tier education that is recognized by employers and professional organizations.

In terms of rankings, North Park University has earned recognition for its academic excellence and overall value. According to the 2011 edition of U.S. News & World Report, North Park University was ranked 43rd among Tier 1 Regional Universities in the Midwest. This ranking places the university among the top institutions in the region, reflecting its strong academic programs, high graduation rates, and overall commitment to student success. The university's ranking is a testament to its ability to provide a high-quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment.

As a private Christian university, North Park also emphasizes the importance of integrating faith into the academic experience. The university’s commitment to Christian values is evident in its focus on fostering ethical leadership, service, and community engagement. North Park encourages students to explore their faith and develop a deeper understanding of how their beliefs intersect with their academic pursuits and future careers. The university’s location in Chicago provides students with ample opportunities to engage with the city’s diverse communities, allowing them to apply their education in real-world settings while also making a positive impact on society. Through service projects, internships, and volunteer opportunities, students at North Park are encouraged to live out their faith and contribute to the common good.

Beyond academics, North Park University provides a vibrant campus life that includes a wide range of student organizations, activities, and athletic programs. Students are encouraged to get involved in extracurricular activities that align with their interests and passions, whether that involves participating in student government, joining academic or professional organizations, or taking part in athletic events. The university’s athletic teams compete in the NCAA Division III, and the school offers a range of recreational and intramural sports, providing students with opportunities to stay active and build community.

In conclusion, North Park University stands as an institution committed to academic excellence, personal growth, and service to others. With its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, specialized programs in nursing, music, business, and nonprofit management, and a commitment to integrating faith into academic life, North Park University provides students with the tools they need to succeed in their careers and live meaningful lives. Its location in the vibrant city of Chicago offers students unparalleled opportunities for professional development, cultural engagement, and community service. As a result, North Park University continues to attract students from diverse backgrounds who are seeking a high-quality, well-rounded education that prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.