| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
National American University (NAU) is a private, for-profit university headquartered in Rapid City, South Dakota, USA. It primarily focuses on providing online and career-oriented education to students across the United States. NAU offers a variety of degree programs at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.
Founded: 1941
Headquarters: Rapid City, South Dakota
Type: Private, For-Profit
Primary Mode of Learning: Online (previously had physical campuses, now primarily online)
Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Programs Offered: Business, Healthcare, Information Technology, Criminal Justice, and more
Target Audience: Working professionals, adult learners, and military personnel
NAU offers career-focused programs in the following areas:
Business & Accounting
Healthcare Management & Nursing
Information Technology & Cybersecurity
Criminal Justice & Legal Studies
Strategic Security & Intelligence
Military & Veteran Studies
Students can pursue certificate programs, associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and graduate degrees (master's and doctoral programs) in these disciplines.
NAU is known for its flexible online programs, which cater to working adults, military personnel, and non-traditional students.
Self-paced and structured courses
Online student support services
Credit transfer opportunities
NAU is recognized as a military-friendly university, offering benefits such as:
Tuition discounts for active-duty military personnel
Support for veterans and their families
Participation in GI Bill® and other military education benefit programs
Regional Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Recognized for serving non-traditional students and working professionals
Accredited programs in business, healthcare, and technology fields
Open enrollment for most programs
Competitive tuition rates, with financial aid options
Credit transfer opportunities for previous college coursework, military training, and work experience
1. Business & Accounting
Associate Degrees:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accounting
AAS in Business Administration
Bachelor’s Degrees:
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting
BS in Business Administration
BS in Organizational Leadership
Master’s Degrees:
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Management (MM)
2. Healthcare Management & Nursing
Associate Degrees:
AAS in Health Information Technology
AAS in Medical Administrative Assistant
Bachelor’s Degrees:
BS in Healthcare Management
RN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
Master’s Degrees:
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
3. Information Technology & Cybersecurity
Associate Degrees:
AAS in Information Technology
Bachelor’s Degrees:
BS in Information Technology
BS in Cybersecurity and Forensics
BS in Data Analytics
Master’s Degrees:
Master of Science (MS) in Cybersecurity
MS in Information Technology Management
4. Criminal Justice & Legal Studies
Associate Degrees:
AAS in Criminal Justice
AAS in Paralegal Studies
Bachelor’s Degrees:
BS in Criminal Justice
BS in Strategic Security and Protection Management
Master’s Degrees:
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
5. Strategic Security & Intelligence
Bachelor’s Degrees:
BS in Strategic Security and Protection Management
Graduate-Level Certificates & Master’s Degrees:
Master of Science in Intelligence Management
6. Military & Veteran Studies
NAU offers specialized programs for military personnel, including credit transfers for military experience and training.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) Approximate |
|---|---|---|
|
Business & Accounting |
|
|
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting |
4 Years |
$15,000 - $16,500 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration |
4 Years |
$15,000 - $16,500 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Organizational Leadership |
4 Years |
$15,000 - $16,500 |
|
Healthcare Management & Nursing |
|
|
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Healthcare Management |
4 Years |
$15,000 - $17,000 |
|
RN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) |
2-3 Years (for RNs) |
$15,000 - $18,000 |
|
Information Technology & Cybersecurity |
|
|
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technology |
4 Years |
$15,000 - $17,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity and Forensics |
4 Years |
$15,000 - $17,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Data Analytics |
4 Years |
$15,000 - $17,000 |
|
Criminal Justice & Legal Studies |
|
|
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice |
4 Years |
$15,000 - $16,500 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Strategic Security and Protection Management |
4 Years |
$15,000 - $16,500 |
|
Strategic Security & Intelligence |
|
|
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Strategic Security and Protection Management |
4 Years |
$15,000 - $16,500 |
BHTM (Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management) in USA
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) Approximate |
|---|---|---|
|
Business & Management |
|
|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 Years |
$16,500 - $18,000 |
|
Master of Management (MM) |
2 Years |
$16,500 - $18,000 |
|
Healthcare Management & Nursing |
|
|
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
2 Years |
$16,500 - $19,000 |
|
Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) |
2 Years |
$16,500 - $19,000 |
|
Information Technology & Cybersecurity |
|
|
|
Master of Science (MS) in Information Technology Management |
2 Years |
$16,500 - $18,500 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Cybersecurity |
2 Years |
$16,500 - $18,500 |
|
Criminal Justice & Legal Studies |
|
|
|
Master of Science (MS) in Criminal Justice |
2 Years |
$16,500 - $18,000 |
|
Strategic Security & Intelligence |
|
|
|
Master of Science (MS) in Intelligence Management |
2 Years |
$16,500 - $18,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) Approximate |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership |
3-4 Years |
$18,000 - $20,000 |
|
Doctor of Strategic Security (DSS) |
3-4 Years |
$18,000 - $20,000 |
|
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) |
3-4 Years |
$18,000 - $22,000 |
Fully Online Programs – No need for a U.S. visa; study from anywhere.
Accredited University – Recognized by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Flexible Schedules – Designed for working professionals and busy students.
Affordable Tuition – Competitive tuition rates with financial assistance options.
Credit Transfer – Previous coursework and work experience may be eligible for credit.
NAU offers online undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various fields:
Business & Accounting (Business Administration, Accounting, Organizational Leadership)
Healthcare Management & Nursing (Healthcare Management, RN to BSN)
Information Technology & Cybersecurity (Cybersecurity, IT, Data Analytics)
Criminal Justice & Legal Studies (Criminal Justice, Strategic Security)
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Doctor of Strategic Security (DSS)
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership
High school diploma (or equivalent)
Official transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
Bachelor’s degree (for master’s programs) or a master’s degree (for doctoral programs)
Official transcripts (translated into English)
English language proficiency test (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
Statement of purpose & resume (for some programs)
1. Choose Your Program
Visit the NAU official website and explore the degree programs available at the undergraduate (bachelor’s), graduate (master’s), or doctoral levels.
2. Submit an Online Application
Complete the NAU online application form on the university’s website.
Provide basic personal details and select your desired program.
No application fee is required for most programs.
3. Submit Required Documents
The required documents depend on the degree level:
For Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Admission:
High school diploma (or equivalent)
Official transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
Proof of English proficiency (for international students)
For Graduate (Master’s & Doctorate) Admission:
Bachelor’s degree (for master’s programs) or master’s degree (for doctoral programs)
Official college/university transcripts
Resume or CV (for some programs)
Statement of purpose (for some programs)
Proof of English proficiency (for international students)
How to Submit Documents:
Upload directly through the online portal
Email to the admissions office
Send via postal mail (if required)
4. English Proficiency Requirement (For International Students)
If English is not your native language, you may need to submit:
TOEFL iBT – Minimum score: 70-80
IELTS – Minimum score: 6.0-6.5
Duolingo English Test (DET) – Accepted as an alternative
(Some students may qualify for an English language waiver.)
5. Evaluation & Admission Decision
Once all documents are submitted, the NAU admissions team reviews the application.
Decision is typically communicated within 1-2 weeks via email.
If accepted, students receive an offer letter and further instructions for enrollment.
If additional information is needed, the admissions team will request it.
6. Financial Aid & Tuition Payment
Explore Financial Aid Options:
Scholarships & Tuition Discounts (available for eligible students)
Military & Veteran Benefits (for U.S. military personnel)
Employer Tuition Assistance (for working professionals)
Flexible Payment Plans
Pay Tuition Fees:
Payment can be made online via credit/debit card, bank transfer, or other accepted methods.
7. Course Registration & Orientation
Once tuition payment is complete, students:
Register for their first semester courses
Receive login credentials for the NAU online learning portal
Attend online orientation to learn about the university’s resources
8. Start Your Classes
Begin your online studies! Students can access lectures, assignments, and resources through the NAU Learning Management System (LMS).
NAU follows a rolling admissions process, meaning students can apply and start their courses at multiple times throughout the year.
Fall Intake – August/September
Spring Intake – January/February
Summer Intake – May/June
Rolling Admissions – Some programs allow students to start every month
No strict deadlines – Applications are accepted year-round for most programs.
Eligibility requirements vary based on the degree level (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate) and whether the applicant is a domestic or international student.
High school diploma (or equivalent)
Minimum GPA of 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale) (some programs may have higher requirements)
Official transcripts from high school (translated into English if necessary)
English proficiency test (for international students) – TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or equivalent
SAT/ACT scores are NOT required for admission.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA of 2.5 - 3.0 (varies by program)
Official transcripts from previous institutions (translated into English if necessary)
Resume or CV (for some programs)
Statement of Purpose (for some programs)
English proficiency test (for international students) – TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent
GRE/GMAT is NOT required for most master’s programs.
A master’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
Official transcripts from previous institutions
Resume or CV with work experience details
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – explaining research interests & career goals
Letters of Recommendation (for some programs)
English proficiency test (for international students) – TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent
No GRE/GMAT requirement for doctoral programs.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Academic Excellence Scholarship |
GPA of 3.5 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) |
Up to $2,000 per year |
Bachelor’s & Master’s |
|
Merit-Based Scholarship |
Strong academic performance & leadership skills |
Up to $1,500 per year |
Bachelor’s & Master’s |
|
Military Tuition Discount |
Active-duty military, veterans & dependents |
10-25% tuition discount |
All Programs |
|
Corporate Partner Scholarship |
Employees of NAU’s partner organizations |
(up to 20% discount) |
All Programs |
|
Transfer Student Scholarship |
Students transferring from another accredited institution |
Up to $1,000 |
Bachelor’s Programs |
|
Alumni Scholarship |
NAU graduates pursuing a higher degree (Master’s/Doctorate) |
Up to 15% tuition discount |
Master’s & Doctorate |
|
First-Generation Student Scholarship |
First in family to attend college |
Up to $1,000 |
Bachelor’s Programs |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Demonstrated financial need (FAFSA for U.S. students) |
N/A |
Bachelor’s & Master’s |
|
International Student Scholarship |
Available to non-U.S. citizens with strong academic records |
Up to $2,000 per year |
All Programs |
Campus Location |
Campus Type |
Facilities Available |
|---|---|---|
|
Rapid City, South Dakota (Headquarters) |
Administrative Office |
Student support, admissions, academic advising |
|
Austin, Texas |
Learning & Support Center |
Student services, academic counseling |
|
Bloomington, Minnesota |
Learning & Support Center |
Student services, online program support |
|
Online Campus (Global Access) |
Virtual |
Fully online courses, e-library, tech support |
Note: NAU previously had physical campuses, but it has now transitioned to an online university with limited administrative and student support centers.
Since NAU does not offer on-campus housing, students must arrange their own accommodation in cities near the university’s support centers or wherever they choose to study online. Below are estimated living costs for off-campus housing:
Accommodation Type |
Estimated Cost Per Month (USD) |
Estimated Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 people) |
$400 - $800 |
$4,800 - $9,600 |
|
Single Apartment (Studio/1-Bedroom) |
$700 - $1,500 |
$8,400 - $18,000 |
|
University Partner Housing (if available in some locations) |
$600 - $1,200 |
$7,200 - $14,400 |
|
Homestay (with meals included) |
$800 - $1,200 |
$9,600 - $14,400 |
|
Budget Rental Room (Private Housing/Hostel) |
$350 - $700 |
$4,200 - $8,400 |
Note: Prices vary depending on the city, location, and amenities included.
Flexible Learning Environment
NAU’s 100% online programs allow students to study from anywhere while balancing work, family, and other commitments.
Students can access lectures, assignments, and discussions anytime through the Learning Management System (LMS).
NAU offers both self-paced and structured courses, depending on the program.
Professors and instructors are available through email, discussion boards, and virtual office hours.
Diverse & Inclusive Community
NAU attracts students from across the U.S. and around the world, making it a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
Many students are working professionals, military personnel, and adult learners returning to education.
The university provides peer networking opportunities through virtual student groups and discussion forums.
Academic & Career Support
NAU is committed to student success through various support services, including:
Academic Advising: One-on-one support to help students choose courses and stay on track.
Online Library & Research Resources: Access to e-books, journals, and academic articles.
Writing & Tutoring Services: Assistance with essays, research papers, and coursework.
Career Services: Resume building, job search support, and interview preparation.
Career-Focused Learning
Since most NAU students are working professionals or career changers, the university emphasizes practical, career-oriented education.
Many programs include real-world case studies and industry-relevant coursework.
NAU helps students connect with employers through job postings and networking events.
Internship opportunities are available in some programs, helping students gain hands-on experience.
Virtual Student Engagement & Networking
Even though NAU does not have a traditional campus, students can still engage with peers and faculty through:
Online Discussion Forums & Study Groups – Connect with classmates and collaborate on assignments.
Virtual Workshops & Webinars – Learn about industry trends, career tips, and academic success strategies.
Alumni Network – Stay connected with NAU graduates for career advice and mentorship.
Military & Veteran Support
NAU is known for being military-friendly, offering:
Tuition discounts for active-duty military and veterans.
Credit transfers for military experience and training.
Flexible schedules for military personnel on deployment.
Balancing Work, Family, and Education
Since many NAU students are adult learners with jobs and families, the university provides a supportive and flexible learning structure.
Assignments can be completed at convenient times without disrupting daily responsibilities.
24/7 access to course materials allows students to learn at their own pace.
Professors understand the challenges of balancing education with work and personal life.
Career Services & Job Support at NAU
NAU offers career-focused programs designed to prepare students for the job market. The university provides:
1 Career Coaching & Job Search Assistance
One-on-one career counseling to help students set career goals.
Resume & cover letter assistance to improve job applications.
Mock interviews & interview preparation for job readiness.
Job search strategies & networking tips to enhance employability.
2 Internship & Work Experience Opportunities
Some programs include internships or hands-on projects.
Students are encouraged to apply for internships with NAU’s corporate partners.
Working professionals can earn credit for work experience in certain programs.
3 Online Job Portal & Employer Partnerships
NAU has an online job portal where students can find job listings.
The university partners with various companies and organizations to provide job opportunities for graduates.
Many employers recognize NAU degrees in fields like business, healthcare, IT, cybersecurity, and criminal justice.
4 Alumni Networking & Industry Connections
NAU has an alumni network that helps graduates connect with industry professionals.
Virtual networking events and career fairs provide opportunities to interact with potential employers.
Employment & Career Outcomes
While exact placement statistics are not publicly available, NAU graduates have successfully found jobs in various industries, including:
Business & Management: Financial Analysts, Business Consultants, HR Managers
Healthcare & Nursing: Healthcare Administrators, Medical Office Managers
Information Technology & Cybersecurity: IT Specialists, Cybersecurity Analysts, Data Analysts
Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement: Law Enforcement Officers, Paralegals, Security Analysts
Since many NAU students are working professionals, they often use their degree to advance in their current careers or switch fields rather than seeking traditional campus placements.
National American University (NAU) has an open admissions policy, meaning it accepts most applicants who meet the basic eligibility requirements. Because of this, the university’s acceptance rate is nearly 100%.
Open Admissions Policy – NAU accepts most students who meet the minimum criteria.
No SAT/ACT Required – Standardized test scores are not required for admission.
Flexible Entry Requirements – Students with a high school diploma (for undergraduate) or a bachelor’s degree (for graduate programs) can apply.
Rolling Admissions – Applications are accepted throughout the year.
International Students Welcome – Must meet English language proficiency requirements.
Credit Transfer Friendly – Previous college coursework and work experience may be considered for credit.
Campus Location |
Campus Type |
Facilities Available |
|---|---|---|
|
Rapid City, South Dakota (Headquarters) |
Main Administrative Office |
Admissions, student support, academic advising |
|
Austin, Texas |
Learning & Support Center |
Academic counseling, online learning support |
|
Bloomington, Minnesota |
Learning & Support Center |
Student services, career guidance |
|
Online Campus (Global Access) |
Virtual |
Fully online courses, e-library, tech support |
