General Information

National University (NU) is the national university of the Philippines, the country’s first non–sectarian coeducational institution. Established its first campus in Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines, the NU system is now in 10 locations in Metro Manila and in Luzon. The founder of the University, Don Mariano Fortunato Jhocson established the institution in August 1, 1900 as Colegio Filipino in Quiapo, Manila. NU was the first university to use English as its medium of instruction, replacing Spanish language.

Since its foundation in 1900 it has produced two Philippine Presidents, one National Artist of the Philippines, legislators, politicians, business tycoons, engineers, architects, health professionals, educators, TV personalities, and athletes.

Approved by the Department of Public Instruction in June 17, 1921, the University received its university status, changing the name from National Academy to National University. Senator Camilo Osias, a two-time Senate President of the Philippines, served as the first president of the University.

In 1915, with the collaboration with Lacson brothers, Don Mariano established the Philippine Law School in Intramuros, Manila. It served as the college of law of the University. It produced Philippine President, Carlos P. Garcia. Another Philippine President, Diosdado Macapagal studied in the institution.

National University is one of the "Big Three"​, wherein it is one of only three Philippine universities recognized by the Association of American Universities (others are: the University of the Philippines and University of Santo Tomas). NU is also one of the pioneers of National Collegiate Athletic Association- Philippines (NCAA) and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).