National University: A Complete Guide for Students

National University (NU) is one of the largest private, nonprofit universities in the United States. Established in 1971, the university is headquartered in San Diego, California, and is best known for its flexible learning formats, strong online degree programs, and commitment to adult learners and working professionals.

For more than 50 years, National University has been providing quality education to students across the U.S. and around the globe. With a mission to make education accessible to everyone, NU offers over 190 degree programs in various fields such as business, education, health sciences, engineering, arts, and more.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about National University, including its history, academic programs, online learning options, admission requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, and student experience.

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History of National University

National University was founded in 1971 by retired U.S. Navy lieutenant commander Dr. David Chigos. The idea behind the university was to create an institution that catered to the needs of adult learners, military personnel, and working professionals who required flexible schedules to continue their education.

Over the years, NU has grown into one of the largest private universities in California and one of the pioneers of online education in the United States. Its innovative learning model and commitment to accessibility have made it a top choice for students who seek both quality and flexibility.

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Why Choose National University?

National University stands out because of its unique educational approach. Some of the key reasons students choose NU include:

1. Flexible One-Course-Per-Month Format – Instead of juggling multiple classes at once, students can focus on one subject per month.

2. Strong Online Education – NU has been a leader in online learning for decades, offering fully accredited online degree programs.

3. Military-Friendly University – NU is dedicated to serving military personnel, veterans, and their families with tuition discounts and special support.

4. Diverse Programs – With more than 190 degree programs and certificates, students have plenty of academic options.

5. Accessible Education – NU welcomes students of all ages, including working adults and lifelong learners.

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Campuses of National University

Although NU is known globally for its online programs, it also operates regional campuses across California and Nevada. Its headquarters is in La Jolla, San Diego, but students can also find campuses in Los Angeles, Fresno, Sacramento, and other cities.

However, the majority of NU’s students now choose to study online, taking advantage of the university’s flexible digital platform.

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Academic Programs at National University

National University offers undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs across multiple disciplines. Here are the main schools within NU:

• School of Business and Management

• School of Education

• School of Health Professions

• School of Engineering and Computing

• School of Arts and Sciences

• School of Professional Studies

Popular Undergraduate Programs

• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

• Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Popular Graduate Programs

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

• Master of Science in Data Science

• Master of Education (M.Ed.)

• Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology

• Master of Public Health (MPH)

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National University Online

NU has become one of the leading online universities in the U.S., offering fully accredited online degree programs. Its online learning system provides:

• 190+ programs available online.

• Flexible schedules for working adults.

• Interactive learning with virtual classrooms, discussion boards, and assignments.

• 24/7 access to course materials.

This makes NU especially popular among military personnel, parents, and working professionals who cannot attend traditional classes.

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National University Rankings

National University is widely respected as one of the top private nonprofit universities in California. Some highlights include:

• Recognized among the top universities for adult learners in the U.S.

• Ranked as a Best Online College by multiple education review sites.

• Consistently recognized as a Military Friendly School.

• Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

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Admission Requirements at National University

National University has a simple and flexible admission process designed to accommodate adult learners.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.

• Minimum GPA (usually 2.0 or higher).

• English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS) for international students.

Graduate Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.

• Minimum GPA requirement (usually 2.5 – 3.0).

• Statement of purpose (for some programs).

• English proficiency test scores for non-native speakers.

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Tuition Fees and Scholarships

NU is dedicated to making education affordable.

• Undergraduate tuition: Around $370 – $480 per credit.

• Graduate tuition: Around $450 – $650 per credit.

• Military Tuition Discount: Special reduced tuition rates for active-duty military and veterans.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• NU Scholars Program

• Military Tuition Assistance & Yellow Ribbon Program

• Need-based grants and financial aid

These scholarships make NU an affordable option for students who want to continue their education without heavy financial pressure.

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Student Life at National University

Unlike traditional universities, National University is designed for working adults and non-traditional students. That means student life is more flexible and career-oriented.

• Clubs and Organizations: Students can join professional and academic clubs.

• Career Services: NU provides career counseling, internships, and job placement assistance.

• Military Student Support: Dedicated advisors for military students.

• Virtual Community: Online students can connect through digital platforms and events.

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Military and Veteran Support

One of the strongest features of NU is its dedication to military and veteran students. The university offers:

• Tuition discounts for military members and their families.

• GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program support.

• Online classes that match deployment schedules.

• Veterans’ resource centers for guidance and networking.

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Conclusion

National University is one of the best private nonprofit universities in the U.S. for adult learners, working professionals, and military students. With flexible one-class-per-month programs, 190+ degree options, and affordable tuition, NU provides a pathway to education that fits into busy lifestyles.

Whether you are looking for a career-focused bachelor’s degree, a master’s program, or an online education, National University has something to offer. Its strong commitment to innovation, accessibility, and student success makes it a top choice for learners across the globe.