About NU
Explore the milestones that shaped our legacy and understand the driving force behind our commitment to experience.
The Vision of Don Mariano - At just 23 years old, Don Mariano Fortunato Jhocson founded an institution dedicated to developing competent leaders grounded in moral and spiritual values.
Guided by Dynamic Filipinism, he sought to cultivate the warmth, innovation, and service-driven spirit of the Filipino people through education.
The Founder of National University
Colegio Filipino was founded in Quiapo, Manila as the first non-sectarian and co-educational institution in the country.
Business courses in bookkeeping and accounting were introduced, leading to the school's renaming as Colegio Mercantil.
The institution was renamed National Academy and expanded its offerings with the addition of Liberal Arts programs.
The name National University was officially adopted, and Senator Camilo Osias was installed as University President.
The Colleges of Pharmacy and Dentistry were formally opened to strengthen professional and scientific education.
The College of Engineering was established, initially offering Civil Engineering to meet growing infrastructure demands.
The Normal School and Sanitary Engineering program were introduced to support public service development.
Post-war rebuilding led to expanded facilities and new degree programs in engineering, architecture, and arts.
Computer Science was introduced, marking the University's entry into modern technology-driven education.
A devastating fire destroyed four major buildings, but the University reopened after intensive restoration efforts.
The SM Group acquired majority ownership, initiating major infrastructure upgrades and academic modernization.
National University continues modernization efforts and remains active in AAUP, PACU, ASAIHL, and IAU memberships.
Resources
Student Handbook
Find essential policies, guidelines, and resources to guide your student journey.
Our Mission
Guided by the core values and characterized by our cultural heritage of Dynamic Filipinism, National University commits to delivering transformative, quality education that is accessible and affordable.
Our Vision
We are National University, a dynamic Philippine institution leading in Asia, internationally recognized in teaching, research, and sustainable community development towards nation-building.
Dynamic Filipinism
First President of National University,
March 23, 1889 - May 20, 1976
Dynamic Filipinism refers to internalizing all that is best in the Filipino, with the time-honored values and deep spirituality stamped upon our education for Philippine citizenship that is compatible with global progress, kinship, and universal culture guided by intense nationalism, democracy, and evolving internationalism.
Core Values
Principles
The NU Research Core Values shape the standards and commitments that guide faculty, staff, and students in pursuing ethical scholarship, inspiring innovation, and creating meaningful impact for communities and society.
Integrity
This is a reflection of who and what we are as individuals. We are honest, we are fair, we are just, and we will do right by anybody at all times.
Compassion
This shows how much we value people. We can feel what they feel and we can treat each one with care and understanding regardless of any situation.
Innovation
We continuously introduce creative change in something established not for the sake of change itself, but with the purpose of constantly improving and being responsive to the times.
Resilience
An evidence of the strength of our character. We are not easily discouraged by trials and tribulations, but we know how to roll with the punches and spring back into action.
Patriotism
Nationalism is rightfully at the center of our institution and community. We display undying and devoted love for our country and everything that it stands for.
Graduate Attributes Intended for Nationalians
Leadership and Teamwork
Responsible Citizenship
Innovative, Creative, and Critical Thinking
Academic and Professional Competence
Effective Communication
Whole-person Character
Life and Career Skills Orientation
Technological Literacy
NU Governance
Corporate Governance
National University upholds accountability, transparency, and integrity through clear policies and checks and balances, ensuring long-term trust with stakeholders.
Training and Development
National University strengthens its workforce through continuous training programs that enhance skills, improve performance, and support professional growth.
Code of Discipline
The Human Resource Department enforces institutional rules, while a Disciplinary Committee reviews and resolves cases fairly and objectively.
Grievance Policy and Procedure
National University ensures fair grievance procedures, protects due process, and promotes respectful resolution of faculty and employee concerns.
Customer Service Satisfaction
National University maintains service quality through documented systems that identify, communicate, and meet stakeholder requirements effectively.
Shape Tomorrow's
Leader and Innovations
Partner with NU
The NU–Nazareth School
The story of NU-Nazareth School reflects a strong commitment to faith, education, and Christian community. Founded by the Hijas de Jesus sisters who arrived in the Philippines on June 18, 1932, Nazareth School began with three elementary grade levels and graduated its first high school batch in 1956.
In 2008, the SM Group of Companies acquired majority ownership of National University. In 2013, Nazareth School merged with NU and became Nazareth School of National University (NU-Nazareth School), while preserving its Catholic identity. NU upgraded facilities and administration, while the Hijas de Jesus continued pastoral ministry and formation. On June 18, 2019, the Holy Family of Nazareth Chapel was consecrated on campus.
Following the merger, enrollment and sports achievements increased. NU-Nazareth piloted the K-12 Program in 2017 with 13 Grade 11 sections, expanding to 24 sections the following year. The first Grade 12 batch under the K-12 program graduated on April 9, 2018.
Accreditation, Recognitions, Certifications
Our certifications reflect independent verification of the University's systems and practices against recognized standards.
QS Stars
Rated for Excellence
TÜV Rheinland
ISO: 9001-2015 Certificate
Microsoft
Showcase School 2025-2026
CHED
Autonomous Award
CHED
Center of Excellence in IT Education
FAAP
Candidate Status MS Sanitary Eng.
FAAP
Level 3 AB English
FAAP
Level 3 Computer Eng.
FAAP
Level 3 Bachelor of Secondary Educ.
FAAP
Level 3 Business Administration
National University Hymn
Board of Directors
Dr. Hans T. Sy
Chairman of the Board
Dr. Renato Carlos H. Ermita Jr.
President and CEO of National University
Teddy Ocampo
National University Former President
Nilo Ocampo
Board Member
Herbert Sy
Board Member
Susan Dimacali
NU Board Member
Elizabeth Sy
NU Board Member
