North Park University

North Park University is a private Christian university located on the north side of Chicago, Illinois. Founded by the Evangelical Covenant Church, it offers undergraduate, graduate, and seminary programs across the liberal arts, professional studies, and theological education. The university describes itself as Christian, city-centered, and intercultural, reflecting its religious heritage and diverse urban setting. Students are drawn to North Park University for its combination of faith-based learning, small class sizes, and access to internships and community engagement opportunities in Chicago. Academic offerings span areas such as business, health sciences, education, the arts and sciences, and theology, serving a diverse student population from the United States and abroad.

North Park University was founded in 1891 by the Evangelical Covenant Church as North Park Theological Seminary in Minneapolis. In 1894, the institution moved to Chicago, Illinois, and became known as North Park College, establishing its campus on the city’s north side. Old Main, dedicated in 1894, became the symbolic center of the growing school. During the twentieth century, North Park expanded its academic offerings beyond theological education, reflecting broader liberal arts and professional programs. In 1958, the institution transitioned from a two-year junior college to a four-year college. In 1997, North Park College officially became North Park University, marking its expanded academic scope and graduate programs. While maintaining ties to the Evangelical Covenant Church, North Park University evolved into an intercultural, city-centered university serving a diverse student body in Chicago.