National University (NU), a member of the SM Group and one of the Philippines’ oldest private universities, has officially opened its 13th campus in the country—and its first in Central Visayas—as it marks its 125th anniversary and ramps up its regional expansion.
Strategically located in the North Wing of SM City Cebu, NU Cebu spans over 25,000 square meters across six levels and is designed to accommodate up to 14,000 students. The campus represents a significant investment in the region’s education sector and supports NU’s goal of providing accessible, affordable, and industry-relevant education outside Metro Manila.
NU Cebu Executive Director Johanna Minglana said thousands of students have already enrolled in the newly opened campus. “We aim to provide quality education that is responsive to both the career aspirations of students and the needs of local industries,” she said. “Our course offerings are based on what students in Cebu are interested in, derived from an extensive market and student preference survey.”
NU Cebu currently offers an industry-aligned Senior High School program and undergraduate degrees in Accountancy, Architecture, Computer Science, Tourism Management, Psychology, and Medical Technology. Minglana noted that more programs are in the pipeline and will be added over the next few years, aligned with market trends and regional economic needs.
All faculty and staff are locally hired, and instructors are qualified based on Commission on Higher Education (CHED) standards, ensuring academic excellence across disciplines. This local hiring approach also reflects NU’s commitment to investing in Cebu’s professional and educational community.
As part of the SM Group, NU Cebu adopts the SM model of operational excellence and customer service, enhancing the student experience within a vibrant commercial setting. The partnership between education and retail opens opportunities for real-world learning through internships and potential industry collaborations.
Branded as the home of the “CebuaNU Bulldogs,” NU Cebu is more than just an academic institution. It aims to foster a values-driven academic environment grounded in discipline, hard work, and social responsibility—principles that define the Nationalian identity.
Founded in 1900, National University has grown into a multi-campus institution nationwide. The Cebu campus is the latest milestone in NU’s long-term strategy to build inclusive academic hubs in key regional cities, nurturing the next generation of Filipino professionals and leaders.
Cebu Business News