National American University-Bloomington

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.

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