Catalyst
Catalyst is North Park University’s signature hands-on learning experience—designed to get you out of the classroom and into the world. Whether you’re exploring Chicago neighborhoods, meeting with local leaders, or working with community organizations, Catalyst helps you connect your education to real life.
Engage with Chicago
Through Catalyst, you’ll step into the city to serve, learn, and grow—deepening your understanding of the urban world around you. Whether on campus or off, every experience is designed to broaden your perspective and strengthen your sense of purpose. Our three Catalyst programs (Catalyst Courses, Catalyst on Campus, Catalyst Semester) combine classroom learning with hands-on opportunities. You’ll tackle real challenges, sharpen your critical thinking, and grow under the guidance of dedicated faculty, staff, and community mentors.
Explore Catalyst options
Catalyst courses
These afternoon classes align with North Park’s open Wednesday schedule and include 2–3 off-campus experiences each semester. You’ll engage with the city, connect with organizations, and apply what you learn in meaningful ways.
Catalyst on campus
Can’t travel into the city? We’ll bring the city to you. Every Wednesday from 12:30–2:30 p.m., enjoy on-campus events featuring Chicago-based speakers, organizations, and interactive experiences.
Catalyst semester
Take your experience further. Catalyst Semester is a learning community where commuter and residential students enroll in two or more Chicago-focused courses, complete a practicum with a local community organization, and participate in at least eight Wednesday Catalyst experiences.
FAQ
The Catalyst block runs Wednesdays from 11:40 a.m. to 4:10 p.m. Each Catalyst course participates in two city-based experiences per semester.
Yes! As long as the classes are in separate time blocks (Self-Service will help prevent overlaps). Two Catalyst classes = four city experiences.
No. Catalyst courses, experiences, and the Catalyst Semester are included in your regular tuition.
Attendance is required. Professors integrate Catalyst experiences into their syllabi, and missed sessions may affect your grade. Each professor will outline how to make up missed work.
Contact
Center for Civic Engagement
Sohlberg Hall
5130 N. Christiana Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625