National University was founded in 1971, was founded by Dr. David Chigos. A retired Lieutenant Commander of the United States Navy and a former director of training for the General Dynamics Corporation in San Diego, Dr. Chigos sought to create a non-traditional learning center. His vision was to create an adaptable but effective way to earn a degree for those already employed. In particular, he wanted to focus on the local military community whose schedules didn’t always allow for traditional styles of learning.
Mission/Vision
The school is focused on personal success with a structure that based around the students excelling their lives. The motto: Discendo Vivimus reflects the school’s attitude towards higher education. The Latin words meaning, We Live through Learning, is a testament to the schools mission that is dedicated to helping those who have worked hard through their lives and want more.
Campus Setting
Ranked as the second largest non-profit learning institution in the state of California and 12th in the nation, National University is based out of San Diego, California with several satellite campuses throughout the state and one in Henderson, Nevada. National University also operates learning centers remotely at various military bases around state and has supplied schooling for deployed military members overseas. A majority of the students who attend the university are already employed and live off-campus in surrounding areas. With a focus directly on efficient education, National University campuses are established in business centers and metropolitan areas. Alumni and student activities are planned at intervals and often held off-campus. Just as the future of non-traditional learning moves online so does National University. Many classes are now available online and can be taken from just about anywhere there is an internet connection.
Academics
Focused on efficient learning, learning sessions aren’t compiled into semesters but rather modules. The aim of the academic program is an accelerated learning program where class intervals are at a monthly rate. Full-time students will attended two or three classes in a single week. A wide range of degree programs are available with many in business administration and technical engineering fields. Post-Graduate degree education is also available where the same accelerated learning is applied.
Athletics
Due to the non-traditional focus of the school, National University doesn’t have any athletics programs that are available to the students. Social clubs of the school do organize occasional intramural sporting activities for students which promote good morale and peer-to-peer networking.
Tuition & Financial Aid
The tuition for National University can fluctuate from year to year. As of 2014, the tuition rate is $336 per quarter unit. Since the learning structure is compiled, so is this tuition payment. Financial Aid is available and is recommended for those who don’t have the means to pay up front. National University is also an approved institution of learning for Veterans who are suggested to utilize educational benefits earned while serving or while currently serving.
Accreditation
As one of the six regional accreditation bodies of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), National University is not only accredited by the association but also takes part in evaluating other schools as well. This accreditation is only one of many that include a wide range of professional trade organizations as well.
Admissions
The admission process is rather simple and uncomplicated. National University has an open enrollment policy that allows anyone with the desire to learn and goal exceed their expectations the ability to learn. The process begins with simply filling out an online application and making an appointment with an admissions counselor. The student will then take assessments that are focused on their level of knowledge.
Email: advisor@nu.edu
Telephone: (800) NAT-UNIV (800-628-8648)
Any correspondence can be sent to:
National University Academic Headquarters
11255 North Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA 92037
