Introduction to National University
National University is a private nonprofit institution headquartered in San Diego, California, serving over 20,000 students across multiple campuses and online. Founded in 1971, National University has grown into one of the largest nonprofit universities in the United States, known for its focus on adult learners, military personnel, and working professionals. With a strong emphasis on accessible, flexible education, National University offers over 75 undergraduate and graduate programs across business, education, health sciences, engineering, and more. The university is recognized by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and holds numerous programmatic accreditations. As a leader in online and hybrid learning, National University combines rigorous academic standards with innovative technology to deliver high-quality education to a diverse student body. The university’s commitment to student success, veteran support, and community engagement has earned it a reputation as a trusted educational partner. National University’s mission is to provide accessible, achievable, and relevant higher education to adult learners, making it a top choice for those seeking career advancement and personal growth.
Company History and Business Evolution
National University was founded in 1971 by Dr. David Chigos, a visionary educator who believed in creating a university that would serve the needs of adult learners. Starting with a single campus in San Diego, California, the university quickly expanded its reach by offering evening and weekend classes to accommodate working professionals. In the 1980s, National University pioneered the use of technology in education, introducing early online learning platforms. The university’s growth accelerated in the 1990s with the acquisition of several smaller colleges and the establishment of a network of campuses across California. In 2001, National University became a nonprofit institution, further solidifying its commitment to accessible education. The 2010s saw a major digital transformation, with the launch of a comprehensive online learning management system and the development of over 50 fully online degree programs. Today, National University is a recognized leader in adult education, serving students in all 50 states and internationally. The university has expanded its portfolio through strategic partnerships with corporations, government agencies, and community colleges. Notable milestones include the founding of the National University Virtual High School, the establishment of the National University Institute for Public Policy, and the creation of the Cybersecurity program in collaboration with San Diego’s tech industry. National University continues to innovate with initiatives like competency-based education, micro-credentialing, and AI-driven student support systems. The university’s evolution from a single-campus institution to a multi-location, digital-first university reflects its adaptability and forward-thinking leadership.
National University at a Glance
- Headquarters: San Diego, California, USA
- Founded: 1971
- Founder: Dr. David Chigos
- President & CEO: Dr. Mark D. Milliron (as of 2025)
- Revenue: Approximately $400 million (2023)
- Employees: Over 3,500 faculty and staff
- Students: More than 20,000 annually
- Degree Programs: 75+ undergraduate and graduate programs
- Accreditation: WSCUC, with many program-specific accreditations
- Campuses: 25+ physical locations across California, plus fully online
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
- Alumni: Over 200,000 worldwide
- Global Reach: Students in 50+ countries
- Military Friendly: Ranked 1 in the nation for military support by Military Times
- Online Learning: 95% of programs offer online or hybrid options
- Research Focus: Applied research in education, health, cybersecurity, and public policy
- Partnerships: Over 100 corporate and community partners
- Community Engagement: 500,000+ hours of community service annually
- Technology: State-of-the-art learning management system, AI tutoring, virtual labs
- Social Impact: Nonprofit status ensures reinvestment in student services and scholarships
Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values
National University’s mission is ‘To provide accessible, achievable, and relevant higher education to adult learners.’ This mission drives every decision, from curriculum design to student support. The vision of the university is to be the leading provider of lifelong learning solutions that transform individuals and communities. Core values include Accessibility – removing barriers to education; Innovation – embracing technology and new pedagogies; Excellence – maintaining high academic standards; Diversity – fostering an inclusive environment; Integrity – conducting all operations ethically; and Community – serving local and global communities. These values are embedded in the university’s culture and are reflected in its policies, programs, and partnerships. For instance, the value of Accessibility has led to the development of flexible scheduling, multiple start dates, and credit for prior learning. Innovation is evident in the university’s investment in AI-driven student success platforms. Excellence is maintained through rigorous faculty hiring and continuous program review. Diversity is celebrated through student organizations, cultural events, and scholarships for underrepresented groups. Integrity is upheld through transparent financial practices and academic honesty policies. Community engagement is manifested in service-learning requirements and partnerships with nonprofits.
Business Strategy and Future Roadmap
National University’s business strategy focuses on three pillars: Digital Transformation, Strategic Partnerships, and Student Success. The university is investing heavily in artificial intelligence, adaptive learning, and data analytics to personalize education and improve outcomes. Future plans include expanding into new markets such as micro-credentials, corporate training, and lifelong learning platform. The roadmap includes opening satellite campuses in underserved areas, launching new high-demand programs in healthcare and technology, and enhancing the online learning experience with virtual reality and simulation tools. National University aims to increase enrollment by 10% annually over the next five years through targeted marketing and community outreach. The university is also focusing on sustainability by reducing its carbon footprint and promoting green initiatives across campuses. Financial sustainability is ensured through diversified revenue streams, including tuition, grants, donations, and corporate contracts. The long-term vision is to become a global leader in adult education, setting the standard for accessible, high-quality learning.
Products, Technologies, and Services
National University offers a wide range of products and services centered on education. These include over 75 degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, as well as certificate programs and continuing education courses. The university’s key technologies include a proprietary learning management system (LMS) called ‘NU Online,’ which integrates with third-party tools for video conferencing, proctoring, and collaboration. National University also uses an AI-powered chatbot for student support and a predictive analytics engine to identify at-risk students. Services include academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, library resources, veterans’ services, and disability accommodations. The university has a robust library system with access to millions of digital resources. Additionally, National University offers a ‘Prior Learning Assessment’ service that allows students to earn credit for work and life experience. The institution also runs a Virtual High School for K-12 students and a community college affiliate. Research services are provided through the Center for Research and Evaluation, which consults with external organizations on data analysis and program evaluation.
Industries and Markets Served
National University primarily serves the Education industry as a provider of higher education. However, its programs are tailored to meet the needs of various sectors including Healthcare, Business, Technology, Public Administration, and Education (K-12 and postsecondary). The university’s student body consists largely of adult learners, military personnel, veterans, and working professionals. It serves markets across the United States, with a strong presence in California, and increasingly in other states through online programs. The university also partners with employers to offer tuition discounts and cohort programs. For example, National University has partnerships with major healthcare systems like Kaiser Permanente, tech companies like Qualcomm, and government agencies like the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The university serves about 10,000 military-affiliated students each year, making it one of the top choices for service members. Additionally, National University offers programs for international students through its online platform. The market segments include early-career professionals seeking advancement, career changers, and lifelong learners who want to upskill. The university’s focus on affordability and flexibility positions it well in the competitive online education market.
Leadership and Management Philosophy
National University’s leadership team is headed by President Dr. Mark D. Milliron, a recognized expert in higher education innovation. The management philosophy is based on servant leadership, transparency, and collaboration. The leadership believes that every employee and student has the potential to contribute meaningfully to the university’s mission. Decision-making is data-driven and inclusive, with regular town halls and advisory councils. The executive team comprises experts in finance, technology, academics, and student services. For example, the Provost leads academic initiatives, the CFO manages financial health, and the Vice President of Innovation oversees digital transformation. The university encourages professional development for its staff through training programs and tuition reimbursement. The overall culture is one of respect, innovation, and commitment to student success. Leaders are expected to embody the core values and to mentor emerging leaders. The university also has a strong tradition of shared governance where faculty and staff have a voice in policy development.
Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement
National University hosts several annual events that bring together students, faculty, alumni, and community partners. The signature event is the National University Symposium, a conference focused on adult learning and technology in education. The university also holds a Veterans Summit to support military students. Community engagement is a cornerstone of the university’s identity, with over 500,000 hours of volunteer service logged annually. Examples include the ‘National University Day of Service’ where employees and students partner with local nonprofits. The university also sponsors economic development forums, educational workshops, and cultural events on its campuses. Additionally, National University operates a Public Policy Institute that hosts forums on pressing issues. The institution collaborates with school districts to provide professional development for teachers. It also runs a small business development center that offers consulting services to entrepreneurs. Through these events, National University strengthens its ties to the community and demonstrates its commitment to social responsibility.
Employees and Workplace Culture
National University employs over 3,500 full-time and part-time faculty and staff. The workplace culture emphasizes inclusion, work-life balance, and continuous learning. The university offers competitive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition waivers, and professional development funds. Employees are encouraged to pursue advanced degrees through the university’s own programs. The culture is described as supportive and mission-driven. National University has been recognized as a ‘Best Place to Work’ by the San Diego Business Journal and is certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ by the Great Place to Work Institute. Diversity and inclusion initiatives include employee resource groups for women, veterans, LGBTQ+, and minorities. The university promotes a hybrid work environment, especially for administrative staff. Faculty members have the autonomy to design courses and engage in research. The leadership regularly communicates with staff via newsletters and town halls. Overall, the workplace is characterized by a sense of purpose and a collaborative spirit.
Job Details & Requirements for this Posting
Position: Faculty – Data Science and Analytics
Department: College of Engineering and Technology
Location: San Diego, CA (with option for hybrid/remote)
Job Type: Full-time
Salary Range: $80,000 – $120,000 annually (commensurate with experience)
Start Date: August 2025
Responsibilities
- Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in data science, machine learning, statistics, and analytics.
- Develop and update curriculum to reflect industry trends and emerging technologies.
- Advise and mentor students on academic and career goals.
- Conduct applied research and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
- Participate in department, college, and university service activities.
- Engage with industry partners to enhance experiential learning opportunities.
- Collaborate with colleagues on interdisciplinary projects and grants.
- Contribute to online and hybrid course delivery.
- Assess student learning outcomes and program effectiveness.
- Undertake professional development to stay current in the field.
Qualifications
- Required: PhD in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or a closely related field (ABD considered).
- Required: Demonstrated teaching excellence at the university level, preferably with adult learners.
- Preferred: Industry experience in data analytics or AI.
- Preferred: Record of scholarly publications and external funding.
- Required: Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Required: Commitment to the mission of National University.
- Preferred: Experience with online learning management systems.
- Preferred: Familiarity with programmatic accreditation processes.
Why Join National University
National University offers a collaborative and innovative environment where faculty can make a lasting impact on students' lives. The university provides excellent benefits, including health insurance, retirement plan with match, tuition remission for employees and their families, and support for research and travel. As a nonprofit, National University reinvests in its faculty and students. Faculty have access to state-of-the-art technology and a supportive community of scholars. The university values work-life balance and provides flexible scheduling. Employees are part of an institution that is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Join a leader in adult education and help shape the future of data science education.
Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation
National University enjoys a strong reputation among students, alumni, and employers. Reviews highlight the university’s flexibility, support services for military students, and quality of faculty. Below is an exhaustive analysis of reviews from major platforms.
Glassdoor
On Glassdoor, National University has an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from over 500 reviews. Employees praise the mission-driven culture, supportive management, and opportunities for growth. Common positive comments include the university’s commitment to adult learners and flexible work arrangements. Some critiques mention heavy workload during peak registration periods and limited advancement opportunities in certain departments. The average salary for faculty is reported as competitive for the nonprofit sector. The CEO approval rating is 85%.
Indeed
Indeed reviews give National University a 3.9 out of 5 stars from over 300 reviews. Employees highlight the friendly atmosphere and meaningful work. Many appreciate the tuition benefits and the ability to work remotely. Negative feedback sometimes cites lack of communication between departments and outdated systems. However, recent updates have improved the technology infrastructure. Overall, the sentiment is positive, with many recommending the university as an employer.
Gartner Peer Insights
Though Gartner Peer Insights primarily focuses on technology, National University is mentioned as a customer of various EdTech solutions. Reviews from IT administrators note the university’s proactive approach to integrating new tools and its willingness to partner with vendors. The university receives high marks for its innovation strategy and user experience. However, some reviews suggest that implementation timelines could be faster. The overall satisfaction score is 4.2 out of 5.
Trustpilot
Trustpilot shows National University with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 from over 1,000 student reviews. Students appreciate the accelerated programs, supportive advisors, and career services. Many share success stories of completing degrees while working full-time. Criticism often involves the cost of tuition, though scholarships help. The university responds to reviews, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.
G2
On G2, National University’s learning management system (NU Online) is reviewed by faculty and students. The LMS receives a rating of 4.0 for its user-friendly interface and mobile accessibility. Some users wish for more advanced analytics features. The mobile app is particularly popular. The university actively updates the platform based on feedback.
Google Reviews
Google Reviews for National University campuses average 4.1 stars from over 2,000 reviews. Students highlight the convenient locations, modern facilities, and knowledgeable staff. The online program reviews are similarly positive. Negative comments occasionally mention parking challenges at urban campuses. The university engages with all reviews, thanking positive ones and addressing concerns constructively.
LinkedIn Reputation
National University has over 150,000 LinkedIn followers and is ranked among top educational institutions on the platform. Employees and alumni often post about achievements, fostering a strong professional network. The university’s LinkedIn page shares news, events, and job postings. The alumni community is active, with many members in leadership positions across industries. The university scores well in engagement metrics.
Why Organizations Choose National University
Corporations, government agencies, and nonprofits choose National University as an educational partner because of its accredited programs, flexible delivery methods, and proven student outcomes. The university offers customized training programs for employees, tuition discounts, and seamless credit transfer for prior learning. Many organizations value the university’s focus on adult learners, which aligns with their workforce development needs. National University also provides a dedicated partnership management team that ensures smooth implementation and support. The university’s research capabilities allow organizations to access expert analysis and program evaluation. Additionally, partnering with National University enhances an organization’s reputation as a supporter of education and employee development. The university’s military-friendly policies also appeal to employers with large veteran populations.
Official Contact Information
For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to National University using the following contact details:
Address: 11255 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States
Contact Number: +1 (858) 642-8000
Support Number: +1 (800) NAT-UNIV
Helpdesk Number: +1 (858) 642-8770
Website: https://www.nu.edu
Official Social Media Presence
Follow National University on social media for updates, events, and student stories:
- LinkedIn:National University LinkedIn
- Facebook:National University Facebook
- Twitter:@NationalUniv
- Instagram:@nationaluniversity
- YouTube:National University YouTube
SEO FAQ Section
1. What is National University known for?
National University is known for its accessible and flexible higher education programs tailored for adult learners, military personnel, and working professionals. It is one of the largest nonprofit universities in the United States.
2. Where is National University headquartered?
National University’s headquarters is located in San Diego, California, with multiple campuses across the state and a strong online presence.
3. Is National University accredited?
Yes, National University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and many of its programs have additional specialized accreditations.
4. How many students attend National University?
National University serves over 20,000 students annually across its campus and online programs.
5. What degree programs does National University offer?
National University offers over 75 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, engineering, technology, and public administration.
6. Can I study online at National University?
Yes, National University offers a vast array of fully online degree programs, with about 95% of programs having online or hybrid options.
7. Is National University military-friendly?
Yes, National University is consistently ranked as one of the top military-friendly universities, providing dedicated support services, scholarships, and flexibility for military students and veterans.
8. What is the tuition cost at National University?
Tuition varies by program and level. National University offers competitive rates and many financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and payment plans. For detailed costs, visit the university’s financial aid page.
9. How do I apply to National University?
Applications can be submitted online through the National University website. The process is streamlined for adult learners with multiple start dates throughout the year.
10. What is the student-to-faculty ratio at National University?
The student-to-faculty ratio is 18:1, allowing for personalized attention and small class sizes.
11. Does National University offer scholarships?
Yes, National University offers numerous scholarships for new and continuing students, including military scholarships, merit-based awards, and need-based grants.
12. How can I contact National University admissions?
Admissions can be reached by phone at 1-800-NAT-UNIV or through the university’s website. Virtual and in-person information sessions are also available.
13. What is the mission of National University?
National University’s mission is to provide accessible, achievable, and relevant higher education to adult learners.
14. How long does it take to complete a degree at National University?
Most programs can be completed in two years or less for a master’s degree and in four years for a bachelor’s degree, with accelerated options available.
15. Does National University have a virtual campus?
National University offers a comprehensive online learning platform, NU Online, which provides a virtual campus experience with full access to resources, faculty, and student services.
16. Is National University a nonprofit or for-profit institution?
National University is a private nonprofit institution, meaning that revenues are reinvested into the university to improve programs, facilities, and student services.
17. What kind of support does National University provide for online students?
Online students have access to academic advising, tutoring, library services, technical support, career counseling, and an online community for networking.
18. Are there job opportunities at National University?
Yes, National University frequently hires faculty and staff. Job openings are posted on the university’s careers page.
19. How does National University support career development?
The university offers career counseling, resume workshops, job fairs, alumni network access, and partnerships with employers to help students and graduates advance their careers.
20. What is the reputation of National University among employers?
National University is highly regarded by employers for its rigorous academic standards and focus on practical skills. Graduates are known for being workforce-ready and have high job placement rates.
For further resources, professionals seeking to enhance their online presence can leverage National University’s content strategies alongside trusted industry partners. One valuable resource is Paid Guest Posting Sites, which offers opportunities for building authoritative backlinks and improving search engine rankings. This can be particularly beneficial for faculty and administrators looking to share research, promote programs, and establish thought leadership in the education sector.
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