North Park University
The Vibe Check
North Park University feels like a close-knit, intentional community nestled within the vibrant energy of Chicago. The campus is compact and walkable, fostering a sense of belonging where students know their professors and peers by name. There's a palpable blend of urban curiosity and a supportive, values-driven atmosphere that encourages personal growth.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1026
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 23
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
North Park offers a personalized academic experience with a focus on practical, career-oriented fields like Business, Health Professions, and Education. Class sizes are small, ensuring direct access to professors who are invested in student success. While research opportunities exist, the academic strength lies in hands-on learning and internships integrated into the Chicago community.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Chicago
Students have endless options for fun, from exploring the iconic museums and restaurants downtown to discovering local gems in neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Square. The campus is a short bus or 'L' ride away, making it easy to catch a Cubs game, see a concert, or simply wander through the city's diverse cultural scenes. Many students also take advantage of the nearby North Park Village Nature Center for a quick escape into nature.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($59,572):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in the North Park neighborhood, which is generally considered a safe and residential area of Chicago. The university has its own campus safety department with patrols and emergency response systems, but standard urban awareness is advised.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong sense of community and small class sizes
- ✓ Prime location in Chicago offers unparalleled internship and cultural opportunities
- ✓ High percentage of students receive financial aid, making it more accessible
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are lower than the national average for private universities
- ✗ Sticker price is high, and the value is heavily dependent on receiving sufficient aid
- ✗ Campus is not a traditional 'college town' experience; it's an urban campus that requires engagement with the city
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
North Park University is known for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Health Professions, and Education. It is also recognized for its unique identity as an urban university with a Christian (Evangelical Covenant Church) heritage, emphasizing a mission of city engagement and global citizenship.
No, North Park University is not considered highly selective. With an acceptance rate of 72.84%, it is generally accessible to applicants with a solid academic record. A strong GPA and a well-crafted personal essay are more critical than top-tier test scores for admission.
Campus life is characterized by a close-knit community feel within a bustling city. Students enjoy a variety of clubs, NCAA Division III athletics, and spiritual life activities. The campus is walkable and features a mix of historic and modern buildings, providing a supportive environment for personal and academic growth.
It can be a worthwhile investment, particularly due to its lower average net price of $18,191 compared to the sticker price. The 10-year median earnings of $59,572 provide a positive return on investment, especially for graduates in high-demand fields like business and healthcare. The value is maximized for students who leverage Chicago's internship and career opportunities.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,061
- In-State Tuition $35,325
- Zip Code 60625
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $18,191, North Park is significantly more affordable than its sticker price, especially for a private university in a major city. The 10-year median earnings of $59,572 suggest a solid return on investment, particularly in business and health fields. For students receiving aid, especially the 43% who are Pell Grant recipients, the financial value is strong.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.