New Academic Programs Prepare Students for Tomorrow's Careers

In addition to new majors, Professor of Chemistry Dr. Izabel Larraza also credits "the first-class facilities" in the Johnson Center that provide the "space and technology support needed to engage more than ever in high-quality teaching and innovative research.”

Two undergraduate science majors, a math certificate, and a master of organizational leadership available this fall

CHICAGO (August 31, 2015) — This academic year, North Park University launched several programs that uniquely prepare students for careers in some of the fastest-growing and most sought-after fields in the job market. By equipping students to succeed in the careers of the future, the University strengthens its mission to prepare them for lives of significance and service.

While North Park’s biology program has a long history of guiding students toward careers in medicine and health professions, a new major, molecular biology and biotechnology (MBBT), trains students who are interested in biotechnology and other specialized biology research.

Biotechnologists use modern techniques and knowledge of biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and mathematics to find solutions to problems and develop new products with living systems and organisms. The MBBT program focuses on molecular biology in order to enhance the theoretical foundation and applications of the fastest-developing field of modern biology.

Besides preparation for graduate school, students will begin a path that will allow them to contribute to the improvement of drugs, therapies, vaccines, and diagnostic tests that can improve human and animal health. Some estimates say the biotechnology sector could add over 100,000 new jobs in the coming years.

“The training includes building research and experiment skills as well as critical thinking abilities, which are required for the future biotechnology and bio-research fields,” said Assistant Professor of Biology Dr. Timothy Lin. “By developing essential skills in these areas, students can be successful in both research and industrial careers.”

Another rapidly expanding discipline, biochemistry, focuses on the study of chemical processes and transformations associated with living organisms. For students who enjoy working at the crossroads of biology and chemistry, the new biochemistry major will be a fitting option as they prepare to pursue medical school, pharmacy, dentistry, or veterinary science.

The biochemistry program will provide a foundation for careers in a diverse range of fields, such as pharmacology, agriculture, environmental studies, forensic chemistry, food science and nutrition, and genetic engineering. Biochemistry majors will also be equipped for graduate school programs in many areas of cutting-edge research.

“Biochemistry echoes the type of learning required for students in the 21st century,” said Professor of Chemistry Dr. Isabel Larraza. “Because of its relevance to modern medicine, the major resonates with North Park’s desire to prepare healthcare practitioners in an era of high demand. With the first-class facilities in the Johnson Center, we have the space and technology support needed to engage more than ever in high-quality teaching and innovative research.”

North Park University, which offers more than 40 undergraduate majors in addition to 19 master’s degrees, began its 124th academic year on Monday, August 31. For more information about academic programs at North Park, please visit www.northpark.edu/academics.

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