National University, the second-largest private, nonprofit university in California, has been named the City of San Diego’s Preferred Employee Education Program Partner and is providing scholarship opportunities to the city’s 10,000 employees.

City employees are being offered a scholarship that is the equivalent of a 15 percent tuition reduction, as well as a waiver of the application fee toward earning an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree or certification.

“As mayor, I’m committed to providing innovative education opportunities for all San Diegans, which includes our City’s hardworking employees,” said San Diego Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer. “National University is a long-standing and loyal institution to the City of San Diego and has already helped many employees and elected officials advance their careers. It is only fitting as we grow this partnership to create more opportunities for more San Diego residents.”

In addition to six campuses located in San Diego County, National University offers an online learning management system that creates a seamless educational experience between the traditional and online classroom. Through a one-course-per-month format, the University offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The majority of programs are available online, allowing students to pursue their studies through a combination of onsite and online options.

“Providing San Diego employees with affordable access to a quality education through National University benefits not only individuals, but the community at large,” said National University President Michael R. Cunningham.

A similar agreement was announced earlier this month between National University and the County of San Diego and its 16,000 employees.