National University

Providing accessible, achievable education to a diverse population of students

Asya W., Ariel M. Class of 2009, 2017

About National University

National University (NU) is an accredited, private nonprofit institution founded in 1971 by retired U.S. Navy Capt. David Chigos. As the largest, private nonprofit university in San Diego, the University’s mission is to provide accessible, achievable, market-relevant educational and career development opportunities to lifelong learners.

NU offers on-campus and online programs with flexible four-week classes to students across the U.S. and around the globe. NU’s undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs prepare students to enter or advance in fields such as education, business, healthcare, cybersecurity and engineering, and public safety. As a champion for educators, NU recommends more teachers for credentials than any other university in California.

Since its founding, the National University community has grown to over 180,000 alumni worldwide.

Learn more about National University.

National University High School

NUVHS is a comprehensive, private, independent online high school serving both full-time and part-time students. NUVHS consists of three tuition-free K-12 California public charter schools, with 11 statewide learning centers.

Learn more about National University Virtual High School.

National University Fast Facts

Veteran-founded nonprofit university
Accredited by WASC Senor College and University Commission
Undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs
Four-week classes offered online or on-site
Based in San Diego
Locations across California and in Nevada
Classes taught by faculty working in their fields
#1 choice for California teachers
Named Best Value College by Money Magazine
Yellow Ribbon and Military-Friendly® School

National University Highlights

Explore Our Programs

Ready to advance in your field or change your career path? Check out our degree, certificate, and credential programs.

Serving Those Who Serve

Learn more about National University’s dedication to serving active-duty servicemembers and veterans.

Teacher Pathway Inclusion Program

NU is working to meet a nationwide demand for educators of diverse backgrounds to serve high-need areas.

Demand for Cybersecurity Experts

NU is one of six designated centers in California to be recognized as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.

Public Safety Promise

Learn more about National University’s commitment to providing affordable, accessible education to public safety professionals and their dependents.

Opportunities in Healthcare

The National University-Sharp HealthCare partnership includes scholarship opportunities for employees of Sharp HealthCare.

Transforming Higher Ed

Learn how the Precision Institute at National University is personalizing education to adapt to individual student needs and interests.

Contact Us

Get in touch with us to learn more about National University, our mission, and our programs.

Meet Our President

Dr. Michael R. Cunningham joined the National University System in 2013 and has extensive experience in both the education and business sectors. He is has devoted much of his career to ensuring students are provided with world-class education that’s both accessible and affordable. At NU, Dr. Cunningham is reconstructing the way that higher education serves students through personalized learning approaches.