Walden vs National University (NU)

Walden University and National University, both esteemed online institutions, offer a diverse range of academic programs and flexible learning options. However, they differ in several key aspects. Walden boasts a higher acceptance rate, making it a more accessible choice for students with varying academic backgrounds. National University, on the other hand, has a slightly higher graduation rate, indicating a strong commitment to student success. While Walden excels in nursing and psychology programs, National University shines in business and education. Explore the detailed comparison table to discover more distinctions between these two universities, including student body demographics, tuition fees, and available financial aid options, and make an informed decision that aligns with your academic goals and preferences.

	National University	Walden University
Overview
Location	La Jolla, California	Minneapolis, Minnesota
Campus setting	City: Large	City: Large
College type	4 year	4 year
Control/business model	Private (Non Profit)	Private (For Profit)
Calendar system	Non Traditional	Quarter
Degrees offered	Undergraduate and Graduate	Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate	100.0%	25.0%
Common app member	No	No
Religious affiliation

Admission
Acceptance rate	54.5%	Open Admission
Application fees
SAT range	N/A	N/A
ACT range	N/A	N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants	154
Total number of admissions given out	84
Admitted students who chose to enroll	38
Yield rate	45.2%
Test scores (SAT/ACT)	N/A	Not required
High school GPA	Required	N/A
Recommendation letters	Not required	N/A
High school transcript	Not required	N/A
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	Required	N/A

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$36,459	$24,240
Average net price	$9,966	$18,772
Tuition	$13,320	$11,700
Room & board
Available payment plans	Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	100.0% Average amount $8,610	100.0% Average amount $5,468
Students receiving federal student loan
Students taking out private loans

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	7,648 Men 47.1% Women 52.9%	7,119 Men 16.1% Women 83.9%
Graduate students	9,487 Men 28.7% Women 71.3%	39,336 Men 18.6% Women 81.4%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Moderate	Moderate
Out-of-state students	N/A	N/A
International students	0.6%	1.6%
Campus local/setting	City: Large	City: Large
Dormitory capacity	N/A	N/A
First year students are required to live on campus?	N/A	N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	N/A	North Carolina Maryland Texas Georgia Ohio

Academics
Popular study areas	Education Health Professions Psychology Business Law Enforcement and Firefighting	Health Professions Education Public Administration and Social Service Business Psychology
Students to faculty ratio	16:1	14:1
Institutional accreditation	Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission	Higher Learning Commission

Outcome
Graduation rate	46.7%	N/A
Dropout rate	N/A	N/A
Transferred out	43.3%	N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $94,452 Year 2: $81,333 Year 3: $97,514 Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $77,429 Year 2: $84,653 Year 3: $94,326 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $85,563 Year 2: $84,367 Year 3: $90,127 Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $84,898 Year 2: $83,505 Year 3: $87,794 Computer Science (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $80,729 Year 2: $71,575 Year 3: $82,008 Educational/Instructional Media Design (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $71,709 Year 2: $66,821 Year 3: $81,966 Public Administration (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $67,545 Year 2: $75,989 Year 3: $77,049 Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $52,576 Year 2: N/A Year 3: $76,724 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $63,716 Year 2: $65,238 Year 3: $74,055 Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $55,949 Year 2: $65,657 Year 3: $73,109	Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $114,492 Year 2: $108,649 Year 3: $123,708 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $93,694 Year 2: $94,227 Year 3: $98,267 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $76,573 Year 2: $88,588 Year 3: $91,407 Public Administration (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $77,767 Year 2: $90,412 Year 3: $83,405 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $76,141 Year 2: $77,487 Year 3: $81,477 Education, General (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $71,994 Year 2: $80,219 Year 3: $80,275 Public Health (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $75,638 Year 2: $72,546 Year 3: $71,950 Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $64,766 Year 2: $62,012 Year 3: $69,892 Management Information Systems and Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $52,969 Year 2: $67,660 Year 3: $69,365 Medical Illustration and Informatics (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $64,492 Year 2: $69,338 Year 3: $68,414

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between Walden University and National University?

Walden University and National University both cater to adult learners, but they differ in several key aspects. Walden University is primarily an online institution known for its focus on social change and offering doctoral programs, particularly in fields like education, psychology, and public health. National University, while also offering online programs, has a stronger presence with physical campuses, primarily in California, and utilizes a unique one-course-per-month format. National University offers a broader range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, education, and technology.
Which university is better for online learning?

Both Walden University and National University offer robust online learning platforms. Walden University is generally considered a pioneer in online education, with a long-standing reputation and a wide array of fully online programs. National University also provides a comprehensive online learning experience, leveraging technology to support its accelerated one-course-per-month format. The 'better' choice depends on your learning style and program preference. If you prefer a highly structured, accelerated pace, National University might be a better fit. If you value a longer course duration and a focus on social impact, Walden University could be more suitable.
How does the tuition compare between Walden University and National University?

Tuition costs can vary significantly depending on the specific program and degree level. Generally, Walden University's tuition is structured per credit hour, and costs can be higher, especially at the doctoral level. National University also charges per credit hour, but their tuition rates may be more competitive for certain programs, particularly at the undergraduate and master's levels. It's essential to check the specific tuition rates for your desired program on each university's website for the most accurate comparison.
What is the learning format at National University?

National University utilizes a unique one-course-per-month format. This means you focus intensely on one subject at a time, allowing for deeper engagement and faster completion of your degree. Courses are typically offered in four-week blocks, providing a structured and accelerated learning experience.
Which university has a stronger focus on research?

Walden University generally has a stronger emphasis on research, particularly at the doctoral level. They encourage students to engage in research projects that address real-world social issues. National University also supports research, but its primary focus is on providing career-relevant education and practical skills.
Where are Walden University and National University located?

Walden University is primarily an online institution with no physical campus. Its headquarters are located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. National University has multiple physical campuses, primarily in California, making it a good option for students who prefer some in-person learning opportunities, even if they are enrolled in online programs.
What types of programs are offered at Walden University?

Walden University specializes in programs focused on social change and professional development. They offer a wide range of doctoral programs in fields like education, counseling, psychology, public health, and social work. They also offer master's and bachelor's degrees in related fields.
What types of programs are offered at National University?

National University offers a broad range of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These include programs in business, education, engineering, technology, healthcare, and arts and sciences. Their program offerings are designed to meet the needs of working professionals and career changers.
Which university is more suitable for working professionals?

Both Walden University and National University are designed to accommodate working professionals. Walden University's flexible online format and asynchronous coursework allow students to study at their own pace. National University's one-course-per-month format provides a structured and focused learning experience that can be easily integrated into a busy schedule. The best choice depends on your individual learning preferences and time constraints.
How do I decide which university is right for me?

Choosing the right university depends on your individual needs and goals. Consider the following factors: program of interest, learning style (online vs. hybrid), tuition costs, career goals, and the university's reputation in your field. Research each university's website thoroughly, speak with admissions counselors, and, if possible, connect with current students or alumni to gain valuable insights before making your decision.

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