National University is on your radar as you explore colleges. You want the inside scoop on what it’s really like to be a student there. Well, listen up, because in this article I’ll give you an insider’s guide to National University straight from the horse’s mouth. As a recent grad, I’ll take you through the good, the bad, and the ugly from my four years at NU. From student life and dorms to academics and professors, I’ll tell you what I wish I’d known as an incoming freshman. So whether you’re trying to decide if NU is right for you or you’ve already been accepted and want the lowdown, strap in for an uncensored look at this school though the eyes of someone who’s been there.
An Overview of National University
National University is a private, nonprofit university that offers a wide range of degree programs and flexible scheduling for busy working adults.
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Founded in 1971 in San Diego, California, National University has grown to become one of the largest private nonprofit universities in the state.
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With over 150 campus centers and online programs, National University provides accessibility and convenience for students across the country.
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The university offers over 100 associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and teaching credentials across diverse fields like business, education, health and human services, technology and more.
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Classes are offered year-round in four-week sessions, with on campus evening and weekend courses for local students as well as options for online distance learning.
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Admissions requirements at National University are designed to evaluate a student’s motivation and potential more than past academics. Transfer credits are also widely accepted.
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Tuition costs are very reasonable compared to other private universities, and financial aid is readily available for those who qualify.
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Small class sizes, caring faculty, career guidance and student support resources make National University an excellent choice for nontraditional and returning adult students of all backgrounds.
Whether you’re looking to earn an undergraduate degree, advance your career with a master’s or just take a few courses, National University aims make higher education accessible and rewarding. Its diversity, flexibility and commitment to student success set it apart from other colleges and universities.
Notable Alumni of National University
National University has over 160,000 alumni around the globe. Many have gone on to achieve great success in various fields after graduating from NU.
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Janet Napolitano, class of ’83: Janet served as Secretary of Homeland Security under President Obama after being elected as the first female governor of Arizona.
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Daniel Matthews, class of ’94: Daniel is a bestselling author and social activist. He has written several books on animal rights, veganism, and environmentalism.
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Rear Admiral Upper Half Edward White, class of ’12: Edward currently serves as Commander of Navy Medicine West and leads 9,500 personnel providing medical support to the Navy and Marine Corps.
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Susan Taylor, class of ’86: Susan is an editor for the Los Angeles Times and has won two Pulitzer Prize awards for her journalism exposing social injustices.
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Dr. Sam Washington, class of ’91: Dr. Washington is the Head of Cardiology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. He pioneered a new surgical technique to treat atrial fibrillation.
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Sandra Michaels, class of ’16: Sandra is the CEO and founder of ClearVision Optics, one of the fastest growing companies in San Diego providing advanced eye care technology and services.
With over three decades educating working professionals, National University’s alumni network is filled with inspirational leaders making a difference in their communities. The unique backgrounds and diversity of NU graduates leads to innovation and progress across many vital industries.
Academic Programs Offered at National University
National University offers a wide range of degree programs and certificates for both undergraduate and graduate students. As one of the largest private nonprofit universities in California, National University aims to make higher education accessible for working professionals.
Undergraduate Degrees
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For undergrads, National University has associate and bachelor’s degree programs in fields like business administration, accounting, marketing, healthcare, early childhood education, and more.
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Many programs offer concentrations or specializations if you want to focus on a specific area within your major. For example, the bachelor’s in business administration allows you to concentrate in things like finance, hospitality and tourism management, marketing, or entrepreneurship.
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Undergraduate classes are available online or on-site at one of National University’s campuses in California and Nevada. This flexibility makes earning a degree convenient for working students.
Graduate Degrees
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At the graduate level, National University provides master’s and doctoral degree options in education, nursing, business, engineering, and other high-demand fields.
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Popular graduate programs include the online MBA, MSN nursing degrees, master’s in public health, and teaching credential/certificate programs.
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Small class sizes and online options allow graduate students to easily access National University’s accredited programs while still working full-time.
Whether you want to earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, National University aims to help working professionals achieve their academic and career goals through flexible, career-focused programs. Check out the full course catalog to explore all undergraduate and graduate degree options.
Student Life at National University
As a National University student, you can expect a great social and academic experience. Here’s a glimpse at what student life is like:
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Diverse Student Body – With a large online and on-campus student population, you’ll interact with a diverse group of peers. Many students balance school with full-time jobs and families.
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Campus Involvement – While coursework is 100% online at National, there are still ways to engage on campus. Attend networking events, join student organizations, or study in the library.
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Academic Support – Make use of free tutoring services in writing, math, accounting, and more. Student advisors provide guidance on your program. The library offers research help.
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Career Assistance – The career center provides resume reviews, mock interviews, job search tips, and holds virtual career fairs. Build connections for internships and jobs.
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Affordable Tuition – As one of the most affordable private, non-profit universities in California, National offers competitive pricing and financial aid options.
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Flexible Programs – Choose from associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees across diverse subject areas. Tailor your schedule each term to fit your needs with day, evening, weekend and online classes.
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Graduate Success – National has over 170,000 alumni. Many grads leverage their degree to advance their careers, switch fields, or pursue new educational opportunities.
With small classes, online options, career guidance and an inclusive community, National University has supportive resources so you can focus on achieving your academic and professional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About National University
What are the popular majors at National University?
Some of the most popular undergraduate majors at National University include:
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Business Administration
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Accounting
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Psychology
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Criminal Justice
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Healthcare Administration
The most popular graduate programs are in teaching, nursing, business, and computer science fields.
Does National University offer online classes?
Yes, National University is designed for working adults and offers many online class options. Over 75% of students take at least one online course. The online courses provide flexibility to balance work, life, and school commitments.
Is National University a non-profit or for-profit school?
National University is a private, non-profit institution. It is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. As a non-profit, National focuses on keeping tuition affordable and providing scholarships and financial aid options.
What is the acceptance rate at National University?
National University accepts approximately 86% of applicants. Admissions requirements include:
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High school diploma or GED
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Minimum GPA of 2.0
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College prep courses for freshmen
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Letters of recommendation
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Personal statement
National has an open enrollment policy for most programs and provides academic support for a diverse student body.
How much does National University cost?
For the 2022-2023 school year, tuition is $399 per quarter unit. On average, yearly tuition runs:
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About $15,000 for full-time undergrads
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$7,500 for part-time undergrad students
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$18,000 for master’s programs
Over 80% of students receive some form of financial assistance. National University offers scholarships, grants, loans, and other options to help make school affordable.
Conclusion
So there you have it – the inside scoop on National University straight from the students themselves. With over 150 locations across the country, flexible online programs, and a focus on real-world skills, it’s no wonder National has become a top choice for busy working adults furthering their education. Sure, the pace moves quickly and you need to be an independent learner, but with small classes and accessible professors, you get that crucial one-on-one support. Bottom line? If you’re looking for an affordable, career-focused education that fits your lifestyle, don’t overlook National. With the right motivation and time management, you can earn that degree – and the promotions that come with it!
