National University
The Vibe Check
National University has a distinct non-traditional and professional atmosphere, with a student body largely comprised of working adults and military service members. The campus feels focused and pragmatic, prioritizing career advancement and flexible scheduling over the classic undergraduate social scene. It is a place where education is treated as a strategic step in one's professional journey rather than a four-year residential experience.
Academics & Majors
The academic strengths at National University are heavily concentrated in practical, high-demand fields like Health Professions, Business, and Criminal Justice. The curriculum is designed with a fast-paced, one-month course structure that allows for deep focus on a single subject at a time. While research opportunities may be more limited compared to large research institutions, the faculty often bring extensive real-world experience directly into the classroom.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in San Diego
Life in San Diego offers students access to world-class beaches, a vibrant downtown, and an endless array of outdoor activities from hiking to surfing. While the campus is more of a commuter hub, students can easily drive to famous spots like Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, or the laid-back neighborhoods of Pacific Beach and Ocean Beach for fun. The city's diverse food scene and cultural attractions provide a rich backdrop for student life outside of class.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($67,548):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The main campus in La Jolla is located in a safe, affluent, and well-patrolled neighborhood. Like any urban area, students should remain aware of their surroundings, but the campus itself is considered secure.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Highly flexible scheduling with start dates every month, ideal for working adults and military personnel.
- ✓ Flat-rate tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students simplifies financial planning.
- ✓ Strong programs in high-demand fields like healthcare, business, and education that are tailored for career changers.
- ✓ The one-course-at-a-time format allows students to deeply focus on a single subject without juggling multiple classes.
Cons
- ✗ The 44% graduation rate and 53% retention rate are significantly lower than the national average, indicating potential challenges for student persistence.
- ✗ The non-traditional, commuter-focused campus life may lack the classic 'college experience' with robust social events and school spirit.
- ✗ With an average net price over $31,000, the total cost can be higher than many public in-state options, potentially leading to more student debt.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
National University is primarily known for serving non-traditional students, including working adults and military service members, through its flexible and accelerated academic programs. It excels in career-focused fields such as Health Professions, Business, Criminal Justice, and Education. The university's unique one-month course structure allows students to concentrate on a single subject intensely, making it easier to balance education with professional and personal commitments.
National University has an open admissions policy, which means it is generally not considered hard to get into in the traditional sense. The university focuses on providing access to education for a diverse range of students, including those who may not have strong traditional academic records but demonstrate potential and commitment. The admissions process evaluates factors beyond just GPA and test scores, such as work experience and educational goals, to assess a candidate's likelihood of success.
Campus life at National University is very different from a traditional four-year college, as the student body is predominantly adult learners, working professionals, and military personnel. There is a strong focus on academics and career development rather than on residential life or social activities. The atmosphere is professional and goal-oriented, with students commuting to class and engaging in focused coursework before returning to their jobs and families.
The value of a degree from National University depends heavily on the student's individual circumstances and career goals. For a working adult looking to advance in a field like healthcare or business, the flexible format and practical curriculum can provide a direct path to a higher salary, making the investment worthwhile. With a 10-year median earnings of $67,548, the ROI can be positive, but students must be mindful of the average net price and manage debt carefully to ensure the degree pays off.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 14,297
- In-State Tuition $13,320
- Zip Code 92123
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price of $13,320 for both in-state and out-of-state tuition, NU appears affordable on the surface, but the average net price of $31,058 is a more realistic figure for students receiving aid. The 10-year median earnings of $67,548 are solid, suggesting a potentially strong return on investment, especially for adult learners seeking to advance in their current careers. However, prospective students should carefully compare the net price against the earning potential of their specific chosen major.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.