In the U.S., those returning to college are not just in their 20s.

There are many in their 30s finishing degrees while working, people starting to study again after raising children, and even those in their 50s learning new skills as they approach retirement.

A school often recommended for these individuals is National University (NU).

https://www.nu.edu

National University is a nonprofit private university established in 1971, with its main campus located in San Diego (9388 Lightwave Avenue, San Diego, CA 92123).

It operates educational centers throughout California and offers well-structured online classes, allowing students who cannot attend school daily due to commuting or childcare to study without stress.

What sets this school apart from others is its system of focusing on one subject per month. Instead of taking 4-5 subjects simultaneously like traditional universities, students complete one subject before moving on to the next, making it much easier for working professionals to manage their time. New classes start every month, so there's no need to wait long to enroll.

The majors offered are quite diverse. There are many fields closely related to employment, such as Business Administration, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Nursing, Education, Psychology, and Public Health, with programs available at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.

In particular, the support programs for military personnel and veterans are well-known, and many students begin college after completing their military service.

Many people are most curious about tuition. The undergraduate tuition at National University is about $1,665 per course, typically based on a 4.5 quarter credit course.

To obtain a bachelor's degree, around 180 quarter credits are usually required, so if there are no transfer credits, the total tuition can exceed $60,000 to $70,000. However, most students receive credit from community colleges or transfer credits from previous universities, significantly reducing their actual financial burden.

Master's programs vary, but total tuition often ranges from $15,000 to $30,000. MBA, education, psychology, and computer-related master's programs are at similar levels, while doctoral programs can incur higher costs depending on the major.

By utilizing federal financial aid (FAFSA), Pell Grants, various scholarships, employer tuition reimbursement, and educational benefits for military personnel and veterans (GI Bill), the amount students actually pay can be greatly reduced. Additionally, taking classes online can save on dormitory costs or long-distance commuting expenses, which is a significant advantage.

Of course, students expecting a traditional campus life may find it a bit disappointing. However, for working professionals or those preparing for a career change, it can be a very realistic option when considering both time and cost.

If you are wondering, "Should I finish my degree now?" I believe National University is definitely a school worth considering.