North Park has served five generations of students and continues to grow in diversity, academic relevance, and Christian commitment. Our Chicago location is a great asset that reflects the School’s global reach and outlook.
After 125 years, we’ve learned how to streamline the process of helping qualified applicants seek admission to North Park and find affordable ways to attend. If you don’t see what you’re looking for on our website, please contact us directly!
North Park offers more than 40 graduate and undergraduate programs in liberal arts, sciences, and professional studies. Classes average 17 students. 84% of our faculty have terminal degrees. Academics here are rigorous and results-oriented.
North Park Theological Seminary prepares you to answer the call to service through theological study, spiritual development, and the formative experiences of living in a community with others on a similar life path.
The Office of Alumni Engagement fosters lifelong connections by engaging alumni with the university and one another in activities, programs, and services that support the university’s mission and alumni needs.
North Park University gave away clothing, blankets, and supplies to more than 225 newly arrived migrants from Mexico and Venezuela who are currently housed in a former military base nearby.
Students, faculty, and staff at North Park University last month gave away clothing, blankets, and supplies to more than 225 newly arrived migrants from Mexico and Venezuela who are currently housed in a former military base nearby.
The 60 volunteers, comprising North Parkers and representatives from the North Park Community Association, Alderman Samantha Nugent’s office, Aramark, and other community groups, collected and distributed the items. They also hosted a lunch for the new arrivals—which included men, women, and children—featuring traditional Latin American food.
North Park held the event in Hamming Hall, and items distributed included coats, shoes, gloves, hats, undergarments, and blankets. Once news of the event spread through the community, people stepped forward to contribute. One local woman, a knitter, heard about the effort on social media and sent a message to her fellow knitters across the country. They responded by providing 500 hand-knit hats for the migrants. A group from Highland Park heard of the event and brought 10 carloads of donated clothing.
The event was an apt reflection of North Park’s mission, according to Tony Zamble, director of University Ministries.
“We are preparing students for lives of significance and service,” Zamble said. “Part of our mission is giving students the opportunity to experience the idea of God’s glory for neighbor’s good. These people are our neighbors; it’s a no-brainer that we would be involved.”
So many people donated, Zamble said, that the group hosted a second, smaller-scale event at Peterson Elementary School several days later. Zamble and Vice President for Student Engagement Frank Gaytan said they hope this event is a spark for similar efforts. One idea in discussion is developing student-led English language classes for the migrants.
“We do these things intentionally because it really is who we are,” Gaytan said. “And not just this single event with the migrants, but we want our students to serve all our neighbors, Chicago, and the world. This is who we are.”
In September, the City of Chicago approved the $1.5 million purchase of the former U.S. Marine Corps facility at 3034 W. Foster Ave. to house 500 migrants for up to 60 days each.
High School Visit Day is a great way to get a jump-start on your college search! This event is designed for current high school sophomores, juniors, and their families who are starting to think about the next step after graduation. It is a simple, fun, and informative way to learn more about North Park University and what college life might look like for you!
You will get a chance to see our beautiful campus, meet current students, and hear directly from our admissions and financial aid teams. Whether you are just starting to explore colleges or already have a few schools in mind, this event will help you picture yourself as part of the North Park community.
Event Highlights:
A student-led tour of our campus oasis in the city
A helpful overview of the admissions process and how financial aid works
Lunch in our dining hall and a peek into everyday student life
Come get a feel for North Park and start imagining your future as a Viking!
Don’t wait to start your life at North Park University. All admitted students and their families are invited to Choose NPU Day. Experience daily life as a Viking! If you haven’t decided where to go this fall, this is your chance to ask questions, get to know our campus, and learn how North Park is the right fit for you.
Guests will experience the feeling of community at North Park. You’ll hear why current students fell in love with life on our campus and get to meet your future classmates. Learn everything you need to know about orientation, financial aid, housing, advising, and class registration so that you’re prepared to take the next steps in your college search journey.
Get an in-depth look at North Park University and discover what it’s really like to be part of our community! Designed for high school students in grades 10–12, Discover North Park is our most comprehensive campus visit event. From conversations with current students to informative sessions about life, faith, service, and academics, this experience gives you the tools and confidence to take your next step in the college journey.
Event Highlights:
Personalize Your Experience. Choose two rotating sessions that match your interests, from first-gen college support and community engagement to faith-based programs and academic tours in STEM or the Arts.
Hear from Our Students. Learn what life is like at North Park through our North Park 101 presentation and Student Panel.
Get Clarity on Costs. Our Financial Aid session breaks down the FAFSA process, scholarships, and how to make college affordable.
Enjoy Lunch on Campus. Connect with current students, staff, and guests while enjoying a meal in our Dining Hall.
Take a Student-Led Tour. End your visit with an optional campus tour to see our welcoming urban oasis and ask any final questions.
Rotating Sessions:
First Generation College Student 101: Designed for students who are first generation college students. Information will be provided regarding the application, financial aid, scholarships and admitted student process.
CRUX: A community of students who follow Jesus together throughout their first year at North Park. With curricular and co-curricular elements, Crux provides a holistic approach to transformation in Christ, equipping students for a lifelong journey of faith and formation.
Civic Engagement/Catalyst 606: Students step outside of the classroom, serving and learning within their local community and gaining a closer understanding and appreciation for the increasingly urban world they live and work in.
SMAT Tour: Designed for students interested in majoring or minoring in Music, Art, and Theatre or non-majors interested in participating in an ensemble or club. Don’t miss this opportunity to tour our music and creative spaces.
STEM Tour: For students interested in STEM fields or passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, this tour offers an in-depth look at the Johnson Center. Explore state-of-the-art labs, classrooms, and collaborative spaces where innovation and discovery come to life.
Get an in-depth look at North Park University and discover what it’s really like to be part of our community! Designed for high school students in grades 10–12, Discover North Park is our most comprehensive campus visit event. From conversations with current students to informative sessions about life, faith, service, and academics, this experience gives you the tools and confidence to take your next step in the college journey.
Event Highlights:
Personalize Your Experience. Choose two rotating sessions that match your interests, from first-gen college support and community engagement to faith-based programs and academic tours in STEM or the Arts.
Hear from Our Students. Learn what life is like at North Park through our North Park 101 presentation and Student Panel.
Get Clarity on Costs. Our Financial Aid session breaks down the FAFSA process, scholarships, and how to make college affordable.
Enjoy Lunch on Campus. Connect with current students, staff, and guests while enjoying a meal in our Dining Hall.
Take a Student-Led Tour. End your visit with an optional campus tour to see our welcoming urban oasis and ask any final questions.
Rotating Sessions:
First Generation College Student 101: Designed for students who are first generation college students. Information will be provided regarding the application, financial aid, scholarships and admitted student process.
CRUX: A community of students who follow Jesus together throughout their first year at North Park. With curricular and co-curricular elements, Crux provides a holistic approach to transformation in Christ, equipping students for a lifelong journey of faith and formation.
Civic Engagement/Catalyst 606: Students step outside of the classroom, serving and learning within their local community and gaining a closer understanding and appreciation for the increasingly urban world they live and work in.
SMAT Tour: Designed for students interested in majoring or minoring in Music, Art, and Theatre or non-majors interested in participating in an ensemble or club. Don’t miss this opportunity to tour our music and creative spaces.
STEM Tour: For students interested in STEM fields or passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, this tour offers an in-depth look at the Johnson Center. Explore state-of-the-art labs, classrooms, and collaborative spaces where innovation and discovery come to life.
Viking Preview Days offers you a firsthand taste of the North Park University experience by allowing you to connect with our community and learn about our vibrant student life. Viking Preview Days are an ideal opportunity for students to take the next step in their college journey and discover what makes North Park special.
Highlights:
-Attend “Coffee with Coaches” and learn more about Viking Athletics (optional)
-Are you a first-generation college student? Attend a session designed just for you!
-Connect with faculty from your intended major
-Explore our campus oasis on a tour led by North Park students
-Get all your questions answered about your admissions application and financial aid
All prospective students and their families who attend Viking Preview Day will be eligible for a 10% discount on tickets for Homecoming 2024 the weekend of October 11-12. The discount code is valid until September, 30th. Discount code: Viking Preview Day 10/11
Join us for Fall Open House and experience North Park University like never before! This interactive event is designed especially for high school students in grades 10–12 and their families to get an authentic feel for life at our beautiful Chicago campus. From engaging with faculty to participating in hands-on academic sessions, our Fall Open House offers an immersive look at what it means to be a Viking.
Event Highlights:
Engage with Our Faculty. Connect with North Park’s dedicated professors through casual conversations and meaningful interactions during Lunch with Faculty. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, hear about academic programs, and get to know the people who make our learning community so vibrant.
Explore Cutting-Edge Facilities. Get an up-close look at our state-of-the-art science labs, including the high-tech Nursing Simulation Lab and the Carlson Athletic Training Center.
Hands-On Workshops. Build your own schedule by choosing from interactive sessions across a wide range of academic departments. Whether you already have a major in mind or are still exploring your options, this is your chance to dive in and discover what interests you most.
Take a Student-Led Tour. See campus through the eyes of a current student and explore our welcoming urban oasis in the heart of Chicago.
Whether you are just starting your college search or narrowing down your choices, our Fall Open House is the perfect opportunity to see what makes North Park special.
Open Major Exploration Pick and choose your activities from a list of hands–on workshops led by faculty: •STEM (Chemistry, Physics and Engineering, Pre–Health Tracks, Cadaver Lab, Lab tours) •School of Nursing & Health Sciences •School of Music, Art, and Theatre •School of Education •Humanities & Social Sciences •School of Business and Nonprofit Management
North Park University launches Center for Civic Engagement.
North Park University has launched the Center for Civic Engagement, an outgrowth of its Catalyst 606 program in which the university’s faculty and students will work with community leaders to strengthen the important work they’re doing in Chicago’s neighborhoods. As part of the initiative, North Park will also offer a Public Policy major beginning in fall 2023.
“The main idea is to build more of a city-centered ethos on campus, and to augment North Park’s commitment to the just flourishing of cities by honoring the work that is going on in neighborhoods,” said Richard Kohng, assistant vice president for the Center of Civic Engagement.
The center enacts this mission through four core divisions: the Catalyst Hub; the Community Assets and Program Evaluation Consortium; the Community Development Hub; and through public policy engagement.
“The Center for Civic Engagement elevates North Park’s unique distinctives as a Christian, city-centered, intercultural university,” North Park President Mary K. Surridge said. “Faculty and students learning and working alongside community leaders across Chicago is yet another example of North Park living into its mission of preparing students for lives of significance and service.”
As part of the center, faculty will provide their specialized expertise to community groups for a reduced fee. For instance, Assistant Professor of Psychology Amy Governale will provide at-cost guidance on program development for organizations that lack the resources to do so themselves.
“A lot of locally led groups don’t see the money they should from grants or philanthropy,” Kohng said. “This will help level the playing field.”
Students will be involved as well, via the Catalyst Hub. Since 2017, students have participated in a designated civic engagement block every Wednesday afternoon. The schedule allows immersive learning experiences to be incorporated into classes across the curriculum, Kohng said.
Building on Catalyst’s success, the new program will incorporate a consortium that allows students to work on real-time projects that benefit community groups. For example, a business class might work on a marketing campaign for a fundraising drive, or a math class could analyze data related to program participants.
The center will be led by a board of community leaders from across the city, and with the guidance of partner Transform Capital—a nonprofit lending initiative cofounded by Paul Hawkinson, a professor in North Park’s School of Business and Nonprofit Management.
Newly released by NYU Press is Market Cities, People Cities: The Shape of Our Urban Future, co-authored by Michael Emerson, Provost of North Park University, and Kevin T. Smiley.
“An in-depth look at the urban environments of Houston and Copenhagen
How are modern cities changing, and what implications do those changes have for city inhabitants? What kinds of cities do people want to live in, and what cities do people want to create in the future? Michael Oluf Emerson and Kevin T. Smiley argue that western cities have diverged into two specific and different types: market cities and people cities. Market cities are focused on wealth, jobs, individualism, and economic opportunities. People cities are more egalitarian, with government investment in infrastructure and an active civil society. Analyzing the practices and policies of cities with two separate foci, markets or people, has substantial implications both for everyday residents and future urban planning and city development.
As twenty-first century cities diverge, Market Cities, People Cities is essential for urban dwellers anxious to be active in their pursuit of their best cities, as well as anyone looking to the future of cities around the world. ”
“You have an incredible opportunity to be a platform of change. That’s all I am. God is using me as His platform in here, but you can be a platform for the people on the outside.”
This is a student blog post submitted by Thomas Cellilli, C’17. Thomas is a Biblical & Theological Studies major.
“You have an incredible opportunity to be a platform of change. That’s all I am. God is using me as His platform in here, but you can be a platform for the people on the outside.”
I shook his hand at least four times during our short conversation after the North Park Gospel Choir sang for and with the men of Stateville Correctional Center. He was sitting down, and I stood hunched over to hear his raspy voice through the roar of dialogues going on around us. He poured his heart out to me, and we laughed at our little connection—his middle name is the same as my first name, Thomas. We didn’t talk about why he was in prison, or how long he had previously waited on death-row. We simply looked each other in the eye as human being to human being—no walls or prison bars separating us—and basked in the joy of connectedness we have in Jesus Christ our Lord who turns our Thomas-doubt into belief. He encouraged me with this: “It doesn’t matter where you start, even if its doubting. It only matters where you end up.”
This was my second visit to Stateville Correctional Center with the Gospel Choir, and I have been infinitely blessed by the love and encouragement of the inmates to which we have ministered. North Park’s Gospel Choir has visited the prison three times to sing for the inmates: once with the Touring Ensemble and twice with the larger choir. The Gospel Choir’s relationship with Stateville is largely indebted to the continued work of Dr. Michelle Clifton-Soderstrom who has been teaching classes to undergrads, graduate students, and inmates inside of the prison. Her class, Peace, Justice, and Restoration, “explores the theological and ethical foundations of justice ministries…[and] probes the grounds of the claim that ‘justice is central to biblical religion.’”
Thanks to the efforts of the North Park faculty, the Gospel Choir has been allowed to interact and sing with the inmates on multiple occasions. I am no singer, nor do I claim to be, but singing praises to our God with those who are in prison has been one of the most powerful experiences in my Christian walk to this day. Both last semester and this semester, I was moved to tears on several occasions as God’s Presence filled the theater at Stateville while we proclaimed the miracles and wonders of our One God.
I implore my brothers and sisters in Christ who had seen firsthand what powerful works God is doing behind bars and those who have been moved by this witness to continue praying for the men of Stateville. Hebrews 13:3 commands us, “Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body” (ESV). Neither walls, nor bars, nor cells, fences, chains, nor isolation can divide the body of Christ. It is our job as brothers and sisters to use what platforms God has given us to speak out against injustice and pray for Heaven to come down to earth.
The event was an apt reflection of North Park’s mission, according to Tony Zamble, director of University Ministries.
Author Kennedy MurphyPosted on Categories Announcement, News, Press, Stories
“An in-depth look at the urban environments of Houston and Copenhagen
