Online Degree Programs
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Online Degree Programs
For over 50 years, National University has specialized in flexible online degrees designed specifically for busy professionals balancing careers, families, or military service. With NU’s online courses, you have the freedom to learn anytime. Whether pursuing an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degree, or certificate, our programs fit seamlessly into your life. Explore our programs and find your path today.
Featured Online Degrees
- Certificates & Credentials
- Associate Degrees
- Undergraduate Degrees
- Master’s Degrees
- Doctoral Degrees
Benefits of Pursuing Your Degree Online at NU
Beyond the convenience of studying from home or your favorite coffee shop, NU’s online degrees are thoughtfully designed to offer tangible, lifelong benefits. Online learners typically experience:
- Significant lifetime returns on educational investment
- Increased earning potential and career advancement
- Opportunities for career shifts or growth
“Our online learner population now spans from students just out of high school to working professionals and older adults returning to education. The flexibility of online programs meets learners exactly where they are, balancing education with career and family responsibilities.”
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Bachelor’s degree holders earn an average of $28,000 more annually than those without college degrees.
- Master’s graduates earn $12,688 more annually compared to bachelor’s holders.
- Doctoral degree holders earn $19,344 more annually over master’s graduates.
Explore Our Online Degree Programs
Online Bachelor’s Degrees
NU’s bachelor’s programs are structured into four-week courses, allowing you to concentrate on one subject at a time. Earn your degree without disrupting your work or family life, while positioning yourself for greater career success and earning potential.
Learn More About Our Bachelor’s Programs ➜
Online Master’s Degrees
Gain advanced skills and credentials through NU’s career-focused master’s programs. Our flexible online courses enable you to balance professional responsibilities and accelerate your career growth efficiently, one course at a time.
Learn More About Our Master’s Programs ➜
Online Doctoral Degrees
NU’s online doctoral programs are designed for ambitious professionals aiming to become recognized leaders in their fields. Our flexible format enables you to engage in meaningful research and leadership training without sacrificing your professional or personal obligations.
Learn More About Our Doctoral Programs ➜
Online Associate Degrees
Start your educational journey or switch careers confidently with NU’s online associate degrees. Structured with flexible, four-week courses, these programs support busy adults committed to personal and professional growth.
Learn More About Our Associate Programs ➜
Online Certificate Programs
NU’s certificate programs offer focused, career-oriented training designed to build your expertise without the commitment of a full degree. Start quickly, advance professionally, and build specialized skills valued by employers.
Learn More About Our Certificate Programs ➜
FAQs About Online Degrees
Absolutely. National University’s online degrees hold the same accreditation and employer recognition as traditional on-campus degrees. Employers value online degrees earned at accredited institutions like NU as highly credible.
Yes, transferring your credits to NU is straightforward. We maintain transfer agreements with numerous universities, colleges, and community colleges to maximize your prior achievements.
NU’s online associate degrees typically take about two years and provide essential knowledge in fields like healthcare, business, or technology. They offer flexibility for busy adults and serve as excellent pathways toward a bachelor’s degree or new career opportunities.
Yes, NU’s online bachelor’s degrees deliver the same rigorous curriculum and quality education as our on-campus programs. Designed specifically for working adults, our courses offer unmatched flexibility.
It varies by program. Research-focused fields like psychology often require a thesis, while programs like business or technology typically feature practical capstone projects or exams, tailored specifically for career advancement.
An online doctoral degree from NU empowers you with the highest level of academic credentialing and career advancement potential. Our programs are built around flexibility, providing rigorous education while fitting your personal and professional life.
National University offers many programs in an online format. In an online course, students will be able to view the syllabus, complete assignments and assessments, engage with varying course materials (videos, interactive presentations, assigned reading), participate in threaded discussions, interact with peers and the instructors, as well as review instructor feedback. Students should log in on the first day of class and anticipate checking their online course multiple times per week. Students are provided access to online courses beginning on the Sunday before the term begins through three weeks after the term ends. Students should ensure they have a reliable internet connection and a reliable computer to access their course.
As of August 2024, the following are the minimum system requirements that are needed to successfully access your courses on the Brightspace (D2L) platform.
Windows Users
- Recommended OS: Windows 10, 11
- Supported OS: Windows 10 22H2+
- Secure High-Speed Internet connection (e.g., DSL, Cable, etc.)
- Soundcard & Speakers
- Screen Resolution: 1280 X 1024 or better
- Recommended Browsers: Firefox, Chrome
- Supported Browsers: Chrome 126+, Edge 126+, Firefox 126++
- Headset with microphone using USB/wired connection
Mac Users
- Recommended OS: OS X 10.14
- Supported OS: OS X 10.13
- Secure High-Speed Internet connection (e.g., DSL, Cable, etc.)
- Soundcard & Speakers
- Screen Resolution: 1280 X 1024 or better
- Recommended Browsers: Firefox 126+, Safari 14+, Chrome 126++
- Headset with microphone using a USB/wired connection
Mobile Users
- Recommended OS: Android 13+, IOS 16+, Chrome OS 90+
- Supported OS: Android 11+, IOS 16+
- Recommended Browsers: Chrome, Safari
- Secure High-Speed Cell Service, Mobile Hotspot, or Wi-Fi Connection
- Headset with microphone
Satellite & Cellular Internet Connections: If this is the only connection you have access to, please note that you may experience sporadic issues while working in your online courses. If you report these problems to the IT Helpdesk, we will attempt to address them with your Satellite or Cellular connection provider.
Wireless Routers/Connections: While working in your online courses via a wireless router or wireless connection, you may experience problems such as various error messages. If you contact the IT Helpdesk, please be aware that part of the troubleshooting process may be to have you bypass your wireless router or connection. If bypassing the wireless router resolves the problem you are experiencing, you will either need to continue to bypass the router or contact the router’s manufacturer’s support to further diagnose the source of this problem.
Notes:
The web browsers listed have been validated with the online course platform. A student risks running into problems with the course software if they choose to use a non-supported browser.
National University maintains a Technical Requirements web page that is updated frequently with Windows and Macintosh hardware and software requirements, including both recommended and supported web browser software. For further information, please check https://www.nu.edu/online-education/.
Why Choose National University for Online Education?
At National University, you’ll join over 150 accredited online programs designed with your success in mind. NU offers:
- Fully Accredited Programs: Assuring quality education employers trust.
- Personalized Attention: Interactive courses and direct support from experienced faculty.
- Monthly Starts & Flexible Formats: Classes starting every month with 4-week and 8-week options.
- Dedicated Student Services: Personalized advising, technical support, and career counseling
Accreditation Matters
National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Accreditation ensures you receive top-quality education, essential resources, and credible degrees that employers recognize and respect.
Interactive Online Tools for Every Learner
NU leverages the latest online learning technology, including video lectures, interactive discussions, quizzes, and digital resources tailored specifically to your learning style. Our platform ensures you have everything needed to thrive academically and professionally.
Key tools include:
- Interactive Discussions: Collaborate anytime with peers and faculty.
- Dynamic Learning Content: Videos, Lectures, Interactive presentations, and Supplemental materials.
- Course Gradebook: Easy access to track your academic progress.
- Course Announcements: Instructors post important dates, reminders, revisions, and other critical information online.
Meaningful Connection with Faculty and Peers
NU fosters an engaging, collaborative online environment, providing you direct access to instructors and classmates. Through personalized feedback, real-time interaction, and ongoing dialogue, you’ll develop essential skills like critical thinking and team-building, preparing you for professional success.
Experienced, Dedicated Faculty
Our distinguished faculty bring deep professional expertise to their courses, trained specifically for effective online instruction. Faculty focus on your learning experience, ensuring engaging and meaningful education designed to enhance your career.
Support Every Step of the Way
From initial inquiry to graduation, National University’s student support network, including academic advising, technical support, career counseling, and mentoring, ensures you’re never alone. Resources like our Career Services and alumni mentoring network further empower your professional journey.
Flexibility for Working Adults
NU’s commitment to your success means more than flexible scheduling. Our holistic, personalized approach supports your educational goals alongside your work, family, and personal life, empowering you to complete your degree confidently and quickly, setting the stage for lifelong career and personal success.
Request Information
Ready to take the next step? Connect with our advisors today to discuss your educational goals, explore flexible online degree options, and learn how National University can help you succeed. Complete the form, and an NU enrollment advisor will reach out shortly to provide personalized support and answers to all your questions.