School Details
North Park University was founded in 1891 by the Evangelical Covenant Church when the Covenant decided that they should formally establish a school of their own. In 1894, the school moved to its current location in Chicago, Illinois. Originally a two-year college named North Park Junior College, in 1958 the school expanded to include four-year programs, and the name was changed to North Park College. Then in 1997, the decision was made to again change the name of the school to its current name North Park University. As a Christian university of the Evangelical Covenant Church, the mission of North Park University is “to prepare students for lives of significance and service through education in the liberal arts, professional studies, and theology.”
North Park University awards bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctorate degrees, and certificates from the following schools:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- School of Music, Art, and Theater
- School of Business and Nonprofit Management
- School of Professional Studies
- School of Education
- School of Nursing and Health Sciences
- North Park Theological Seminary
For students requiring a more flexible schedule, North Park University offers select courses and entire degree programs through its distance learning program. North Park University online degrees are available at the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as a doctorate degree. Online programs combine quality and personal engagement that are hallmarks of North Park education with convenient, 24/7 delivery. The flexibility of online learning allows you to earn your degree regardless of the stage of life you are in.
Accreditation & Licensing
North Park University is accredited by:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
All Programs
Business
The online Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration program features business administration courses that emphasize leadership skills. Students will learn important concepts to prepare them for management positions in a variety of industries, including corporate, nonprofit, and government agencies. This practical and in-demand degree offers flexibility with new classes starting every two months, with seven-week accelerated courses that meet once a week.
Business disciplines covered include, but are not limited to:
- Financial management
- Critical thinking
- Communication
Ideal candidates for this online bachelor’s degree in business administration include entry-level job seekers, working professionals who wish to change careers or advance in a current career, and anyone who may consider pursuing a more advanced degree. Students can be prepared to increase earning potential by completing this program. Graduates of this course will be prepared to apply learned skills to excel in management, achieve objectives, and successfully navigate current technologies to support a business organization.
Students acquire hands-on experience in web analytics, social media marketing, and digital strategies with the online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Marketing. Industry-relevant assignments enhance technical, creative, and business skills for an in-depth educational experience. Students will use relevant tools and techniques to improve their marketing research abilities..
The online bachelor’s degree can open the door to many exciting career opportunities including, but not limited to:
- Digital content development
- Marketing management
- E-marketing
- User experience development
Graduates of the online bachelor’s degree program in digital marketing will be able to strategize and develop e-marketing plans and social media assessment reports. They will know how to recognize moral and ethical issues in the industry and address them. Plentiful job prospects are available to graduates due to the growing industry of e-commerce.
Through the online Bachelor of Arts in Nonprofit Management, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of strategies and regulations involved in managing a nonprofit organization. Nonprofits can face many challenges to provide public services. This online program emphasizes key concepts of budgeting, fundraising, and resource management.
Careers in nonprofit and management come from many fields including, but not limited to:
- Human resource management
- Social work
- Business management
The online bachelor’s degree program in nonprofit management is designed to advance careers and increase earning potential. Small classes, experienced instructors, and online convenience makes this program beneficial to anyone wishing to further their education in this field. The ability to accurately analyze budgets and maximize worker contributions will equip graduates with the ability to succeed in the nonprofit industry.
The online Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management and Leadership is designed to allow students to develop a strong foundation in the leadership of people, departments, and organizations. Students may earn academic credit for life experience through the Prior Learning Assessment process. This program prepares students to face conflict and change, a valuable skill for any type of leadership role.
Through this program, emphasis is placed on:
- Critical thinking and problem solving
- Leadership and collaboration
- Effective communication
- Ethics
By completing this online bachelor’s degree program, graduates will have the advanced skills and capabilities to effectively manage an organization. This program is ideal for entry-level job seekers, career professionals wishing to expand their knowledge, or as the first step to completing an advanced degree. Graduating students will be able to build a digital career portfolio to showcase technical and personal skills acquired throughout the online bachelor’s degree program in organizational management and leadership.
The online Graduate Certificate in Accounting prepares students to combine financial and business theory with the practice of financial, tax, managerial, and cost accounting in order to make positive impacts at their organizations. Students learn how to analyze financial statements and the accounting principles used to prepare them, and to understand external financial reporting requirements. Courses also teach students to incorporate the tax effects and cost classifications of business into the decision-making process, and to prepare budgets in a variety of industries.
With the Graduate Certificate in Conflict Management, students will be prepared to apply principles of efficient communication in the workplace to resolve conflict and disputes. This fast-growing field examines what causes conflict and how to manage it through teamwork and negotiation. Applications are free and accepted throughout the year.
This program features:
- Practical training to effectively manage lead and manage change
- Small class sizes with professional faculty
- Flexibility and convenience of an online format
Through this online program, students will develop essential skills in mediation, conflict theory, and team building. Graduates will have the ability to lead by developing diversity to create value and effectively negotiate. The online graduate certificate program in conflict management is a solid investment for individuals seeking a career in business that helps people directly.
The online Graduate Certificate in Fundraising Management gives students the necessary preparation to become effective development professionals while focusing on fundraising theory, history, strategy, implementation, and practice. Students gain valuable skills in all aspects of fundraising management, including grant writing, annual major gift solicitation, capital campaign development and execution, and donor base development. Graduates are able to build a convincing case for financial support and select the donors and markets that best fit an organization’s mission.
The online Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management examines the impact of employee recruitment and training on organizational strategy, and provides concrete skills you can use to manage, motivate, and negotiate with individuals and labor groups. Students study the evolving role of human resources in driving the value of an organization and learn the dynamics of the grievance process and alternative dispute resolution methods. Graduates are able to develop strategies for compensation and benefits, and are able to create and manage basic compensation plans.
The online Graduate Certificate in Leadership offers comprehensive preparation in the skills and knowledge that contribute to strong leadership, including self-awareness, attention to the types of environments that foster strong performance, appropriate leadership models, and accessing and developing talent. Students study servant and situational leadership models, coaching and counseling methods to improve performance, and strategies to positively affect organizational change. Graduates are prepared to lead organizations more effectively, develop negotiation approaches, and understand how diversity influences organizational creativity and performance.
Through the online Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Governance, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of governance issues facing organizations, and how to proactively solve them. Nonprofits can face many challenges to provide public services. This online program emphasizes issues of governance, compliance, and financial reporting.
Courses include, but are not limited to:
- Fundraising
- Nonprofit law
- Nonprofit financial management
The online graduate certificate program in nonprofit governance is designed to propel graduates into the growing field of nonprofit management. Small classes, experienced instructors, and online convenience makes this program beneficial to anyone wishing to further their education in this subject area. The ability to accurately analyze business applications will equip graduates with the ability to succeed in the nonprofit industry.
The online Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management provides comprehensive preparation in the major functional areas of nonprofit organizations, with an emphasis on helping leaders maintain a central focus on their organizations’ missions. Courses develop and broaden knowledge of the fundraising, finance, and marketing functions within the nonprofit sector, with careful consideration of resource development, budgeting, ethics, and legal issues. Graduates understand how the components of an organization fit together, including boards, structure, mission, and staff, and also know how to develop strategic plans for organizations that will advance their missions.
The online Graduate Certificate in Organizational Development provides concepts, skills, and techniques that can help advance leadership capability and enhance organizational effectiveness. Students study and analyze behavioral styles in organizational settings, learn how to build effective work teams, and explore how diversity can improve corporate innovation. The program teaches valuable skills in conflict and change management, as well as providing students with the tools to become stronger, more inspiring, and more effective leaders.
The online MBA degree program is designed to provide students with a broad knowledge of business theory and practice. The program will prepare students for a variety of leadership positions in corporate, nonprofit, and public sectors. You will learn to be an experienced business professional who is an effective, knowledgeable, and ethical manager. The interdisciplinary nature of an MBA also allows it to act as a steppingstone for advancement to leadership positions in many aspects of business.
Coursework covers advanced topics in:
- Organizational Behavior and Ethics
- Marketing Analysis and Consumer Behavior
- Multi-Sector Convergence and Social Responsibility
- Financial Decision Making
- Strategy for Competitive Advantage
The online HR Management degree is a comprehensive program to prepare students for careers in human resources as they learn about both organizational and legal considerations in the field and how to build skilled, high-performing teams in a wide range of workplaces. Students develop the skills needed to lead human resource planning and staffing initiatives, manage diversity and conflict, develop an organizational communications initiative, and measure the success of programs led. Courses include Organizational Communication, Strategic Planning and Staffing, Negotiation and Influence, and Employment Law.
Master’s Program Advantages
- Choose from online or on-campus courses
- Add a graduate level certificate without extra cost or money
- Generous scholarship opportunities are available
The online Master of Nonprofit Administration prepares students to lead nonprofits across the sector, covering all the disciplines essential to running effective, mission-driven organizations, from fundraising to financial decision-making to governance. Focusing on strategic management, as well as relevant regulations and external reporting requirements, students develop the skills needed to serve as executives in both small and large organizations. Coursework includes Nonprofit Financial Management, Nonprofit Board Governance and Volunteer Management, Nonprofit Marketing Analysis and Consumer Behavior, and Measuring Outcomes and Assessment.
Program Benefits
- Online or on-campus course opportunities
- Add-on graduate certificates
- Scholarships for eligible students
The online master's in Organizational Leadership prepares students to become ethical leaders in the rapidly diversifying and global economy. Courses teach important leadership competencies, including critical relationship-building and decision-making skills that help students manage the multifaceted and complex process of achieving desired outcomes. Students learn everything from how to implement a new policy to how to motivate an organization around them, learning best leadership practices in the corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors.
Additional Degree Features
- Fully online or on-campus options
- Online certificates give added credentials
- Scholarship opportunities for eligible students
Nursing
Are you ready to move your nursing career beyond one-on-one care to a higher level? If so, the Doctor of Nursing Practice, an online nurse practitioner degree, may be for you.
This program prepares students for leadership roles, solving healthcare issues on an organizational or broader level by implementing innovative change combined with compassionate care. Courses cover various topics, including:
- Applying knowledge practically
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking and analysis
- Professional collaboration
- Ethics in decision-making
Students will find that this program features a rigorous curriculum as well as outstanding support. All students work on individual projects from the beginning of the program, but courses promote faculty and student engagement and relationship building.
Religion & Philosophy
The online Graduate Certificate in Christian Studies is a program tailored to individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of Christian theology, scripture, and history. Whether one is interested in vocational ministry, academic scholarship, or personal enrichment, Christian Studies provides a framework for engaging with the richness and complexity of the Christian tradition. This online graduate certificate offers a focused curriculum delivered entirely online.
Courses include, but are not limited to:
- Vocational Excellence
- Academic Writing
- Christian Theology
The online Graduate Certificate in Christian Studies represents a valuable opportunity for individuals seeking to deepen their faith, expand their knowledge, and engage with the riches of the Christian tradition in a digital age. This online program equips students to navigate the complexities of contemporary life and ministry with wisdom, integrity, and grace. Students enrolled in this online certificate program embark on a journey of discovery, exploration, and transformation, guided by a commitment to lifelong learning and faithful discipleship.
The online Graduate Certificate in Church Administration from North Park University focuses on management skills as they apply within church settings. Those working in churches, ministry, and other organizations need to be proficient in a wide range of administrative skills that support essential operations and ongoing activities. This certificate’s curriculum is designed to supply these skills. The program focuses on developing financial, operational, and managerial skills which will support sound leadership. Students also learn about the fundamentals of church administration, including cash flow and nonprofit accounting systems. You will be able to create effective management frameworks and be prepared to further your church’s mission through marketing, communication, and human resources.
The call for understanding, empathy, and collaboration across cultures has become a central tenet of many faith traditions. The online Graduate Certificate in Intercultural Ministry is a program designed to prepare students for transformative leadership in diverse religious and cultural contexts. Intercultural ministry calls for humility, openness, and a willingness to learn from and with people of different backgrounds and perspectives.
Classes include:
- Journey to Mosaic
- Issues of Christian Faith in the Americas
- Religions and Cultures
Classes are taught by experienced and dedicated faculty. There are many online academic resources available for students. The online Graduate Certificate in Intercultural Ministry represents a significant contribution to the field of religious education and leadership, offering a rigorous and accessible training program for individuals called to the vocation of intercultural ministry.
Many individuals seek solace, guidance, and deeper connection with their spiritual selves. In response to this profound yearning, the online Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction is a program designed to equip individuals with the skills, insights, and ethical frameworks needed to accompany others on their spiritual journeys. Students engage with the theory, theology, and practical skills of spiritual direction while cultivating their own spiritual awareness, presence, and discernment.
Classes include, but are not limited to:
- Spiritual Directing
- Listening and Discerning
- Foundations of Listening and Discerning
The online Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction represents a significant contribution to the field of spiritual care and ministry, offering a rigorous and accessible training program for individuals called to the sacred vocation of spiritual direction. This online program equips students to accompany others on their spiritual journeys with wisdom, compassion, and integrity. Whether pursuing vocational aspirations or personal enrichment, students enrolled in this certificate program embark on a transformative journey of growth, guided by a commitment to listening, discernment, and love.
The online Master of Arts in Christian Formation is an online program designed to equip students with the skills and insights needed to engage in transformative ministry and leadership roles within Christian communities. Christian Formation is a multifaceted discipline that encompasses the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and relational aspects of faith development. This approach to faith formation acknowledges the diverse needs and backgrounds of believers and seeks to create environments where individuals can flourish in their relationship with God and with one another.
Courses include, but are not limited to:
- Christian Theology
- Ministry Identity and Practice
- Christian Worship
The online Master of Arts in Christian Formation represents a forward-thinking approach to theological education, harnessing the power of technology to empower individuals to deepen their faith, expand their knowledge, and engage in meaningful ministry. Whether pursuing vocational ministry or seeking personal enrichment, students enrolled in this online program embark on a transformative journey of growth, service, and discipleship, guided by a commitment to love God and neighbors.
Students seeking to engage in ministry are presented with a unique opportunity to pursue their passion and calling through the online Master of Arts in Christian Ministry. This online master’s degree program is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of theology, biblical studies, preaching, and ministry skills. Through a blend of coursework, experiences, and curriculum, students are prepared to serve their communities with confidence and competence.
Courses include:
- Religions and Cultures
- Experiencing Global Christianity
- Christian Theology
Students have access to many online academic resources. The online Master of Arts in Christian Ministry offers an accessible pathway for individuals called to vocational ministry to receive theological education and practical training. By embracing technology, tailoring curriculum, and fostering spiritual growth, this online program empowers students to engage with confidence, compassion, and competence in the mission of the Church.
The online Master of Divinity program represents a combination of tradition and innovation, providing students with a theological education while leveraging the advantages of online learning. It encompasses theological studies, biblical interpretation, church history, pastoral care, and ministry training. Courses are carefully designed to equip students with a deep understanding of religious texts, theological frameworks, and the practical skills necessary for effective ministry in diverse contexts.
Classes include, but are not limited to:
- Greek
- Christian Ethics
- Preaching the Word
The online Master of Divinity embodies the values of theological inquiry, spiritual formation, and pastoral care while embracing the opportunities of the digital age. This online master’s degree program equips individuals to navigate questions, cultivate communities, and inspire change. Aspiring spiritual leaders embark on a journey of deepening faith, intellectual engagement, and ministry, empowered to make a meaningful impact in the world.