
9388 Lightwave Avenue, San Diego, CA 92123, USA


National University holds regional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which is a recognized authority for validating the quality and standards of higher education institutions primarily on the West Coast. This accreditation ensures that National University meets rigorous criteria related to institutional integrity, academic rigor, and student support services.
The university's various specialized programs, including those in education and business, are also accredited by relevant national and professional organizations. Such programmatic accreditations affirm that these academic offerings satisfy industry standards and prepare students effectively for their professional careers.
Prospective students can be confident that degrees earned at National University are recognized by employers and other educational institutions due to its accredited status. This accreditation also enables the university to participate in federal financial aid programs, facilitating access to funding for eligible students.
National University operates an open admission policy, allowing prospective students to enroll without the need for traditional admission tests or detailed academic records. Applicants are required to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) credential as a minimum educational qualification. The university mandates that students have access to a personal computer, although it does not provide options for leasing computers. Additionally, National University accepts transfer credits, including those earned through prior college experience and Advanced Placement (AP) exams, supporting a flexible pathway for continuing education.
National University charges an application fee that prospective students must submit when applying. However, the institution offers fee waivers under specific circumstances to alleviate financial burdens for eligible applicants. These waivers are typically granted to those who demonstrate economic hardship or participate in certain outreach programs designed to increase access to higher education.
The university encourages students to inquire directly about fee waiver eligibility during the application process, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder admission opportunities. Documentation may be required to support a request for a waiver, and applicants should be prepared to provide this information if asked.
National University hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students with opportunities to participate in Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs directly within the university environment. This allows prospective students interested in military leadership and training to engage in ROTC activities without needing to seek these programs off campus.
National University offers multiple enrollment periods throughout the year, allowing transfers in fall, winter, spring, and summer terms. The university maintains an accommodating policy for accepting transfer credits and recognizes a variety of examination credits including CLEP General and CLEP Subject tests as well as DANTES exams. This flexibility supports students who have completed prior coursework or testing to potentially reduce their time to degree completion.
The admissions process for transfer students at National University is considered minimally difficult, reflecting a relatively accessible entry standard. Prospective students can also benefit from the university's acceptance of recommendations and credits from Excelsior College, which may facilitate smoother credit transfers.
An age limit of seven years applies to accepted credits, suggesting that coursework completed within this timeframe is eligible for transfer consideration. These factors combined illustrate National University's openness to a diverse range of transfer applicants seeking to continue their education with recognized prior learning.
National University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities tailored to enhance the educational experience of its students. These programs are designed to provide immersive international experiences that complement academic goals while fostering cultural awareness and global competence.
Students can participate in short-term faculty-led trips, which typically take place during academic breaks and focus on specific subjects or disciplines. These trips allow participants to engage directly with different cultures, historical sites, and professional environments relevant to their fields of study.
In addition to short-term programs, there are partnership arrangements with universities abroad that enable students to study overseas for a semester or an academic year. These exchanges provide access to a broader selection of courses and the chance to earn credits transferable to National University's degree programs.
The university also supports internships and service-learning opportunities overseas. These experiences combine academic study with practical work or community service in international settings, promoting experiential learning and personal growth.
Overall, National University's study abroad programs aim to accommodate diverse student interests and schedules, offering flexible options to integrate global learning into their education.
High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
YesComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoOpen admission policy
YesDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
NoDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
NoWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
EasyGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer