National American University-Rapid City

National American University-Rapid City, originally established in 1941 as the "National School of Business," has evolved significantly to become a private for-profit online university. Known for its early adoption of distance learning, NAU began developing online courses and degree options in 1996, eventually transitioning to a primarily online model serving students across the United States and internationally. It offers a diverse range of associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees in high-demand fields such as accounting, business, information technology, strategic security, and health care.

Students at NAU benefit from a supportive learning environment, emphasized by its motto, "Quality higher education in a caring and supportive environment." Even as an online institution, it provides extensive resources including learning resource center services, tutoring, counseling, and computer support, all accessible through a dedicated student portal. A notable innovation was the "One" program, introduced in the early 2000s, allowing full-time students to manage their studies by attending classes just one day or night per week, catering to the needs of working adults and those balancing multiple responsibilities.

While its history includes a strategic shift away from ground campuses to focus almost entirely on its robust online offerings, NAU's commitment to flexible, career-focused education remains central. Its legacy is marked by adapting to student needs through accessible online programs and supportive services designed to foster academic success in a digital learning landscape.