Overview
National University's Department of Nursing operates as part of the broader National University system, a nonprofit institution founded in 1971 in San Diego, California, with a mission to serve nontraditional, working adult, and military-affiliated students. The nursing department was established to address California's persistent nursing shortage by offering accessible pathways into the profession, including prelicensure BSN programs, RN-to-BSN completion tracks, and graduate nursing degrees. It has built a reputation for flexible scheduling, accelerated formats, and strong support for veterans and working professionals balancing education with employment and family responsibilities.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | San Diego, California |
| Founded | 1971 |
| Total students | 23,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 18:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 76% |
| Graduation rate | 52% |
| Average starting salary | $78,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $13,860 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $13,860 |
| Room & board | $14,500 |
| Average financial aid | $9,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 70% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.10 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- RN to BSN
- Prelicensure BSN
- Master of Science in Nursing
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Nurse Educator Certificate
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.