National University —a nonprofit, veteran-founded institution serving more than 50,000 nontraditional, working, and military students annually, along with 80,000 through workforce and professional training—has announced the launch of a new “co-learning” center designed to support students balancing education, work, and family responsibilities.
The Nest—a nod to “Navi,” NU’s peregrine falcon mascot—opens May 9 at the university’s main campus in San Diego. A second Nest will launch later this year in Escondido.
“The typical student today is an ANDer: a learner who is balancing education and work, education and parenting, education and deployment, education and caring for aging parents,” said Dr. Mark D. Milliron, president and CEO of NU. “This is about flipping the script for the hardworking students that we serve—giving online and hybrid students the resources they need to not just persist, but thrive—and providing ongoing support as they chart pathways to career and economic mobility.”
Today, nearly 25% of U.S. undergraduates are over 25, and many are juggling significant family and work obligations. About 70% work part-time or full-time while enrolled, and nearly one in four are parents. At NU, the average student age is 37. About 80% of NU students take all of their classes online, and 93% take at least some courses virtually, often combined with on-site clinical training.
Modeled after a co-working space, the Nest is designed to meet the specific needs of these adult learners. Students will have access to academic, career, and family support in a flexible environment where they can study, connect, and receive guidance—blending the convenience of remote learning with the support of an in-person community.
The space includes student success and writing coaches, collaborative study areas, access to career development workshops, mentorship programs, and the newly enhanced Veterans & Military Community Center. Students can also borrow laptops, use shared workspaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, and access printing services.
Through partnerships with the Toby Wells YMCA and the Escondido YMCA – A Campus for Well-Being, the Nest will also offer affordable or free childcare, removing a major barrier for student parents. Additionally, the new Harmony Family Clubhouse will provide support and programs for NU parents, including workshops, enrichment activities, mental health resources, and family-friendly events.
The newly redesigned Veterans & Military Community Center will serve as a dedicated hub for military-connected learners, offering tailored support, career services, wellness resources, and community-building. It is partially funded by a $500,000 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veteran and Spouse Transitional Assistance Grant Program (VSTAGP), with an in-kind match of $500,000. One of only 13 awarded nationally, the grant supports veterans, spouses, and caregivers as they transition into civilian careers, especially in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, IT, and education.
NU will host launch events at both Nest locations in the coming months, featuring tours, workshops, and opportunities for students and community members to engage. Plans are also underway to expand the Nest model through partnerships with community colleges and organizations in states where large numbers of NU students reside.
NU’s Whole Human Education model delivers flexible four-, eight-, and twelve-week courses in online, hybrid, and on-site formats—designed to meet the evolving needs of military students, working adults, and learners at every stage of life.
For more information about Nest co-learning centers and upcoming launch events, visit NU.edu.
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