National American University-Bloomington

About National American University-Bloomington

National American University's Bloomington campus serves students in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, offering career-focused programs designed for working adults and nontraditional students. As a for-profit institution, NAU operates differently from traditional universities, emphasizing flexibility, practical skills, and direct pathways to employment. The Bloomington location puts students near the Mall of America and within the economic hub of the Twin Cities region, where employers in healthcare, business, and technology provide job opportunities for graduates. The university's approach prioritizes accessibility for students who may have delayed their education, work full-time, or carry family responsibilities that make traditional college attendance difficult. Course schedules accommodate working professionals, with evening, weekend, and online options allowing students to balance education with other commitments. This flexibility comes with trade-offs, as the career focus means less emphasis on the broad liberal arts education found at traditional institutions. With roughly 500 students at the Bloomington campus, NAU maintains a small-school environment where faculty know their students and can provide individualized attention. Class sizes remain manageable, and advisors help students navigate degree requirements and career planning. The institution positions itself as a practical option for those seeking credentials that will advance their careers, rather than a traditional college experience.

National American University maintains open admissions policies that welcome students regardless of previous academic performance. The application process is straightforward, typically requiring a high school diploma or GED and completion of enrollment paperwork. Standardized test scores are not required, and the university accepts students year-round for the multiple start dates offered each term. Admissions advisors work with prospective students to evaluate their goals, discuss program options, and explain financial considerations. Transfer credits from other institutions are often accepted, potentially reducing the time and cost needed to complete a degree. The university also offers credit for prior learning and professional experience in some cases, recognizing knowledge gained outside traditional classroom settings. Financial aid options include federal student loans and grants for those who qualify, along with payment plans that spread costs across the term. As a for-profit institution, NAU's pricing structure differs from public universities, and students should carefully consider the total cost of their education and potential return on investment. Veterans' benefits and employer tuition assistance programs may offset costs for eligible students.

National American University Bloomington offers programs primarily in business, healthcare, and information technology, with degrees ranging from associate's to master's levels. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills that employers seek, with coursework designed to prepare students for specific career paths. Business programs cover accounting, management, and marketing, while healthcare programs train students for roles in medical administration and health information management. The academic calendar features multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing students to begin their studies when ready rather than waiting for fall or spring semesters. Courses typically run in compressed formats, with students taking one or two classes at a time in intensive blocks. This approach can accelerate degree completion for motivated students while keeping the workload manageable for those balancing multiple responsibilities. Faculty members often bring professional experience to their teaching, connecting coursework to real-world applications. Many instructors continue working in their fields while teaching part-time, giving them current knowledge of industry practices and employer expectations. Academic support services include tutoring, writing assistance, and career counseling to help students succeed in their courses and prepare for employment.

Key Highlights

• Dedicated to academic excellence
• Welcoming campus environment
• Strong focus on undergraduate education
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Campus life at National American University Bloomington reflects the institution's focus on serving working adults. Most students commute to campus for classes while maintaining jobs, families, and other responsibilities outside the university. The traditional trappings of college life found at residential institutions are largely absent, replaced by a straightforward focus on coursework and career preparation. The campus provides study spaces, computer labs, and support services that students need between and during classes. Group projects bring students together for collaborative work, and study groups form around shared courses and career interests. While social activities exist, they tend to be organized informally among students rather than through extensive institutional programming. The Bloomington location offers convenience for students across the Twin Cities region. The Mall of America sits nearby, providing dining and entertainment options, while public transportation connects the campus to Minneapolis, St. Paul, and suburban communities. Students working in local businesses or healthcare facilities can often attend classes near their workplaces, reducing commute time and making education more practical.

Location & Surroundings

The Bloomington campus occupies commercial space in the Minneapolis suburb, near the intersection of major highways and close to the Mall of America. This location prioritizes accessibility for commuting students rather than creating a traditional campus atmosphere. Students drive or take public transit to reach the campus for classes, then return to their homes and workplaces. Housing is not provided by the university, with students living throughout the Twin Cities region and commuting as needed. The Minneapolis-St. Paul area offers rental options across a wide range of price points, from affordable suburban apartments to more expensive urban neighborhoods. Most students are established residents of the area rather than relocating for their studies. The Twin Cities metropolitan area provides a strong job market and quality of life that make it an attractive place to live and work. Minneapolis and St. Paul offer cultural amenities, professional sports, parks, and the lakes that define Minnesota life. The climate features cold winters and pleasant summers, with outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the year. The diverse economy includes major employers in healthcare, technology, retail, and manufacturing, providing job opportunities for graduates with appropriate qualifications.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Graduates of National American University Bloomington enter the Twin Cities job market with credentials oriented toward specific career paths. Healthcare administration graduates find opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies throughout the region. Business program graduates pursue roles in accounting, management, and marketing with employers ranging from local businesses to major corporations. The practical orientation of NAU programs aims to prepare students for immediate employment upon graduation. Career services help students connect with potential employers through job listings, resume assistance, and interview preparation. The university maintains relationships with some regional employers who have hired NAU graduates in the past. Outcomes vary considerably depending on the program, the student's prior experience, and the state of the job market at the time of graduation. Students considering NAU should research outcomes carefully and compare costs and career prospects with other options. For-profit universities have faced scrutiny regarding student debt levels and employment outcomes, and prospective students should ask about graduation rates, job placement statistics, and typical starting salaries for their intended programs. For some working adults, the flexibility NAU offers may justify the investment, while others may find better value at community colleges or public universities.