Chigos created academic programs with a no-frills look at the world. National University would offer classes that would lead to education and employment. His first class numbered 27 students.

The last time a national university was seriously considered was in 1914, right at the beginning of World War I, Thomas told me. But the idea never gained any serious traction.

San Diego-based National University announced Monday plans to merge with another local online college, expanding the institution’s sizable footprint amid pandemic-heightened demand for remote ...