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Private nonprofit, 4-year

North Park University

Chicago, Illinois · www.northpark.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

68.5%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$36,710

$47,800 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,841

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

40.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 55.0%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

North Park University, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a private Christian university renowned for its commitment to providing a holistic education that integrates faith, learning, and service. Established in 1891 by the Evangelical Covenant Church, the university emphasizes a strong liberal arts curriculum, encouraging students to think critically while fostering their spiritual development. The campus is characterized by a welcoming and diverse human environment, where students from various backgrounds come together to learn and grow. North Park's motto, "We are North Park," reflects the inclusive community spirit that permeates the university, promoting a sense of belonging and mutual support among students and faculty alike.

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in fields such as business, education, and music. North Park is also recognized for its commitment to experiential learning, providing students with numerous opportunities for internships, community service, and study abroad programs. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, research labs, and recreational spaces that enhance student life and learning experiences. Furthermore, North Park's athletic programs encourage student participation in sports, fostering teamwork and physical well-being. With a strong emphasis on preparing graduates for successful careers, North Park University boasts an impressive employment rate among its alumni, who are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields.

Analysis of Key Metrics at North Park University

The data from North Park University reveals significant trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student demographics. Over the years, there has been a consistent increase in tuition fees for both undergraduate and graduate students. For instance, in 2014, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students was $23,350, which has escalated to $35,325 by 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 51% over a decade, which may raise concerns about affordability for prospective students and their families, particularly given the rising student debt crisis in the United States.

Graduation rates also present an intriguing narrative. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students was around 39% in 2013, dropping to approximately 42% by 2023. This modest increase indicates that while the university is making strides in enhancing its graduation outcomes, there is still room for improvement. The 150% graduation rate, which encompasses those who finish within six years, tells a similar story, with numbers reflecting gradual positive trends yet highlighting ongoing challenges faced by students in completing their degrees.

Another noteworthy observation is the shift in gender demographics among students. The ratio of male to female undergraduate students has shown an upward trend in male enrollment, rising from approximately 37% in 2014 to about 42% in 2023. This shift could signal changing societal attitudes toward gender roles in higher education and may have implications for campus culture and academic programs.

Retention rates have seen fluctuations, starting at over 72% in 2013 and hovering around 70% in 2023. The ability to retain students is critical not only for graduation rates but also for the overall institutional reputation. The slight decline may suggest areas where the university can enhance student support services to foster a more engaging and supportive environment.

Overall, while North Park University has made progress in certain areas, the rising tuition costs and retention challenges could impact its competitiveness and accessibility for future students. Addressing these issues will be crucial for maintaining enrollment and ensuring successful student outcomes.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
Chicago, about 10 mi
Nearest international airport
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), about 10 mi
Chicago, Illinois
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Evangelical Covenant Church of America
President
Mary Surridge (President)
Phone
7732446200
City
Chicago, Illinois
Address
3225 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60625-4895

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
64.3%
Women
72.7%

In 2020: men 43.4%, women 50.7%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at North Park University

The admission data for North Park University over the years reveals some intriguing trends in both acceptance rates and student demographics. Notably, the male acceptance rate varied significantly, peaking at approximately 92.61% in 2017 and dipping to around 30.62% in 2009. This fluctuation indicates a shift in the university's admissions strategy or perhaps an increase in the applicant pool's competitiveness.
Meanwhile, the female acceptance rate remained relatively stable but also showed significant variation, with the highest acceptance rate of about 95.16% in 2017 and a low of roughly 29.61% in 2009. This stark contrast between the years may reflect broader societal trends, such as an increasing number of women seeking higher education and the changing dynamics of gender representation in various fields of study.
The total enrollment numbers provide further insight, with a peak of 502 students admitted in 2023, indicating a growing interest in the university, despite some years showing high denial rates, such as 2,666 in 2013. The high number of deferred admissions, especially in 2010 and 2012, suggests that the university is cautious, likely to balance its enrollment with quality candidates, which is a common practice among institutions facing high demand.
Overall, the data reflects North Park University's evolving admissions landscape, characterized by fluctuating acceptance rates, a growing applicant pool, and changing demographics. These trends are significant not only for prospective students but also for understanding the university's position in the competitive higher education market.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Nursing School#394▼9

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at North Park University

The data from North Park University over the years presents a compelling narrative regarding the trends in standardized test scores and the number of applicants submitting these scores. From 2007 to 2023, we observe a fluctuating pattern in both SAT and ACT submissions, indicating a changing landscape in college admissions.

Initially, there was a noticeable decline in the percentage of students submitting SAT scores, dropping from 20% in 2007 to as low as 11% in 2018. However, a significant surge in submissions occurred in 2019, where 75% of admitted students submitted SAT scores. This rise can potentially be attributed to the increased emphasis on standardized testing in college admissions during that time, a trend that was later challenged by the test-optional movement, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Looking at the score ranges, the data reveals a consistent trend of rising score thresholds, with the 25th percentile for SAT reading and math scores hovering around 450-500, and the 75th percentile reaching above 600 in several years. This indicates that while the university has maintained accessibility, it is also attracting a more competitive applicant pool.

Moreover, the ACT submissions also show variability, but the patterns suggest that the university is increasingly accommodating diverse applicant profiles. This evolution reflects broader changes in higher education, where the focus is shifting towards holistic admissions processes rather than solely relying on standardized test scores.

In summary, North Park University’s data illustrates a dynamic adaptation to external pressures and changing applicant demographics, highlighting the complexities of modern college admissions. As institutions navigate these trends, the emphasis on inclusivity and academic excellence remains paramount.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

4,309 applicants in 2025, 68.5% admitted

2,952 admitted 1,357 not admitted Yield 14.3%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's46056 international (12.2%)
Master's24413 international (5.3%)
Doctoral30 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
153
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
53
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
30
Psychology, General
27
Elementary Education and Teaching
15
Marketing, Other
15
Biomedical Sciences, General
15
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
14
Political Science and Government, General
12
Mechanical Engineering
12

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Education, General · Master's50 (2% international)
  • Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's44 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's24 (25% international)
  • Counseling Psychology · Master's23 (13% international)
  • Theology/Theological Studies · Master's21 (0% international)
  • Religious Education · Master's14 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at North Park University

The graduation data from North Park University for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various disciplines. Registered Nursing stands out with a significant number of graduates, totaling 69 bachelor's degrees awarded, and a modest number of international students contributing to this figure. The healthcare sector continues to show strong demand, emphasizing the ongoing need for trained professionals in nursing, especially in light of recent global health challenges.

In contrast, Business Administration seems to have a different narrative, with no bachelor's degrees awarded, yet a substantial number of master's degrees (39) granted, including five to international students. This shift may indicate a trend where students are opting for advanced degrees over undergraduate studies in business, possibly in response to the competitive job market that favors higher qualifications.

Psychology and Sports Kinesiology also show a consistent number of graduates, albeit with lower figures compared to nursing. The absence of master's degrees in these fields suggests that students may be less inclined to pursue further education, possibly indicating job market saturation or differing career aspirations within these disciplines.

Overall, the data illustrates a diverse array of academic pursuits at North Park University, reflecting broader societal trends in education and employment. The strong performance in nursing aligns with the healthcare industry's demand, while the trends in business and psychology highlight a shift in educational focus towards advanced qualifications. This multifaceted view of graduation outcomes can guide prospective students in their decision-making processes and inform university strategies for program development.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 219 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$50,247-$78,551
Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management.$50,247-$78,551
Organizational Leadership.$50,247-$78,551
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.-
Marketing, Other.-
Health professionshas 131 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Health and Wellness, General.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$79,244-$108,601
Family Practice Nurse/Nursing.$79,244-$108,601
Nursing Science.$79,244-$108,601
Educationhas 98 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.$62,767
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$98,809
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching.-
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Theology has 53 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Bible/Biblical Studies.-
Religious Education.-
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Divinity/Ministry.-
Youth Ministry.-
Urban Ministry.-
Psychology has 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$33,865
Counseling Psychology.$57,682
Biologyhas 35 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$35,727
Biomedical Sciences, General.$35,727
Biochemistry.-
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Other.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$32,828
Social sciencehas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Homeland security has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$48,132
Communication has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Communication and Media Studies, Other.-
Advertising.-
Visual and Performing artshas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Voice and Opera.-
Engineeringhas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mechanical Engineering.-
History has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Natural resources has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Studies.-
English has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Foreign languages has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-

Students

2,557 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 61.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,841)

Hispanic
635 · 34.5%
White
518 · 28.1%
International
241 · 13.1%
Black
194 · 10.5%
Asian
147 · 8.0%
Two or more races
56 · 3.0%
Unknown
44 · 2.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.0%
18–19
33.7%
20–21
39.5%
22–24
18.1%
25 and over
7.7%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.7%
22–24
18.7%
25–29
24.4%
30–34
10.3%
35 and over
45.7%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at North Park University in 2023

The student population at North Park University for the year 2023 presents a diverse landscape across various categories. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 496, with a notable gender distribution where approximately 42.9% are male and 57.1% are female. This trend continues among undergraduate juniors, who total 1,210 students, with a gender ratio of 40.8% male and 59.2% female. Such proportions indicate a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment, which is becoming increasingly common in higher education institutions across the United States.

Among transfer students, there are 160 individuals, exhibiting a slightly more balanced gender ratio of 46.9% male and 53.1% female. The graduate student population is also significant, with 792 students, and the gender distribution skews even more towards females at 64%. This increase in female representation in graduate studies is reflective of broader national trends, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.

The demographic breakdown by race shows a predominance of white students across all categories, although specific numbers were not detailed for some groups due to data limitations. The representation of other racial and ethnic groups, including Asian, Latinx, and African American students, is crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment.

Overall, North Park University demonstrates a commitment to diversity, particularly in gender representation, while continuing to emphasize the need for broader racial and ethnic inclusivity within its student body. As universities nationwide strive to improve diversity and inclusion, the patterns observed at North Park University are indicative of both progress and areas needing attention.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at North Park University

The age composition of students at North Park University reveals interesting trends regarding the demographics of both undergraduate and graduate populations. A notable feature is the significant presence of younger students, particularly those aged 18-19, who represent 41% of the total student body. This group of students is predominantly made up of undergraduates, indicating that the university attracts a considerable number of recent high school graduates.

As students age, the numbers begin to decline in the subsequent categories. The 20-21 age group follows closely, accounting for 28% of the total. This trend suggests that many students are progressing through their undergraduate studies within the traditional age range, although there is also a noteworthy number of older students, especially in the 25-29 bracket, where we see a substantial representation of graduate students, indicating a growing trend of mature students pursuing higher education.

The presence of older students, particularly those aged 30-34 and above, highlights the university's commitment to lifelong learning and accessibility for non-traditional students. The data shows that older age groups, such as 40-49 and 50-64, while smaller in number, are still making notable contributions to the university community.

Overall, this age distribution reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly catering to a diverse range of students, including both young adults and older individuals seeking to enhance their education and career prospects. This diversity enriches the academic environment and fosters a culture of inclusivity within the university.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates13.1%

241 in 2025 · 5.1% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 5.1%2017: 5.8%2018: 6.4%2019: 6.3%2020: 6.0%2021: 5.6%2022: 6.9%2023: 10.4%2024: 12.3%2025: 13.1%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students5.3%

38 in 2025 · 3.7% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.7%2017: 3.3%2018: 2.2%2019: 2.4%2020: 1.8%2021: 1.9%2022: 3.0%2023: 4.8%2024: 5.6%2025: 5.3%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

International Student Trends at North Park University

The data from North Park University reveals notable trends in the enrollment of international students over nearly two decades. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a steady increase, culminating in a significant 10.39% in 2023. This growth reflects a broader trend in higher education where universities are increasingly attracting students from around the globe, likely due to the institution's commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

In contrast, the percentage of international graduate students has fluctuated and has not seen the same level of growth. While the undergraduate segment experienced a consistent rise, the graduate enrolment peaked at 3.67% in 2016 and has since declined to 4.80% in 2023. This disparity may suggest that North Park University is more appealing to undergraduate international students, possibly due to its undergraduate programs or a more welcoming campus environment.

The overall increase in international students is indicative of a shift in global education trends, where students are seeking quality education in diverse environments. The challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic also seem to have influenced these numbers, as the figures dipped in 2020, reflecting a common theme across many institutions. As borders reopen and travel normalizes, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the coming years.

Overall, the data highlights North Park University’s growing appeal among international students, particularly at the undergraduate level, while also raising questions about the factors influencing graduate international student enrollment.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$47,800

Undergraduate tuition
$36,710
Room and board
$11,090
Graduate tuition
$14,417
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 42% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 23%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$73.7M

Tuition and fees
$37.6M51.0%
Investment return
$14.2M19.3%
Gifts and private grants
$8.3M11.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.4M10.1%
Sales and services of educational activities
$2.4M3.3%
Government grants and contracts
$253K0.3%
Other
$3.4M4.6%

Expenses$66.2M

Instruction
$22.6M34.2%
Student services
$11.6M17.6%
Institutional support
$9.5M14.4%
Academic support
$5.5M8.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.5M5.3%
Other
$13.4M20.2%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$74,397peers $68,006
Professor
$82,596peers $78,041
Associate professor
$74,422peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$67,395peers $63,827

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin

College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football110-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6345
Soccer4329
Volleyball1936
Basketball2718
Baseball44-
Softball-22
Golf115
Tennis-11
Other Sports--
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5247
Football97-
Soccer5934
Volleyball2631
Baseball44-
Basketball2915
Softball-25
Golf105
Tennis-11
Other Sports--
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6167
Football109-
Soccer5134
Volleyball2530
Baseball44-
Basketball2317
Softball-22
Golf134
Tennis-12

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near North Park University:

  1. Northwestern University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, Northwestern University is a prestigious research university located in Evanston, Illinois. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields.

  2. University of Chicago - With a rank of 12, the University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and influential research. It is located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago and is known for its strong emphasis on critical thinking and intellectual inquiry.

  3. Loyola University Chicago - Ranked 142nd, Loyola University Chicago is a Jesuit institution that offers a diverse range of programs. It emphasizes social justice and community service, preparing students for meaningful careers.

  4. Illinois Institute of Technology - This university is ranked 98th and is known for its strong engineering and technology programs. Located in Chicago, it combines a rigorous curriculum with hands-on experience.

  5. University of Illinois Chicago - With a rank of 82, this public research university offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, and is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

  6. DePaul University - Ranked 151st, DePaul University is the largest Catholic university in the U.S. It offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on experiential learning.

  7. University of Notre Dame - A prestigious institution ranked 20th, Notre Dame is known for its strong academics, vibrant campus life, and commitment to the Catholic faith. It is located in South Bend, Indiana.

  8. Marquette University - Ranked 86th, Marquette University is a private Jesuit university located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It offers a variety of programs and is known for its strong emphasis on ethics and service.

These institutions provide a diverse range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in various fields of study.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
85
Drug referrals
33
Motor vehicle theft
19
Dating violence
10
Aggravated assault
6
Domestic violence
5

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Crime Trends at North Park University

The crime statistics from North Park University over the past decade reveal some notable trends in campus safety. In 2013, the crime rate was relatively high, with 16.62 incidents per 1,000 students. However, the following years showed fluctuations, reaching a peak in 2014 with 20.92 incidents per 1,000 students. This spike could be attributed to various factors, including a possible increase in reporting or changes in campus policy regarding crime awareness.

From 2015 onward, there was a general downward trend in crime rates, with the lowest recorded rate of 5.97 incidents per 1,000 students in 2022. This significant decline might suggest that the university has effectively implemented measures to enhance campus safety, such as increased security presence, educational programs on substance abuse, and anti-violence initiatives. However, the slight uptick to 11.13 in 2023 indicates that vigilance is still necessary to maintain these improvements.

The data also highlights specific types of crimes such as drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents, which remain critical areas for ongoing attention. The focus on reducing these offenses is essential, especially for creating a safe and conducive learning environment.

In conclusion, while North Park University has made commendable progress in reducing crime rates, it remains essential for the institution to continue its efforts in crime prevention and safety awareness to ensure the well-being of its students. More information on crime rate calculations can be found at this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of North Park University include James R. Thompson (37th Governor of Illinois), Theodore Wilbur Anderson (Statistician specializing in multivariate analysis) and Mike Harper (Former professional basketball player).

More alumni (1, by field)

Arts and media

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.