The goal of the University of North America (UoNA) is to provide students with an outstanding, integrated education linking the latest academic theories to real world applications.   Applied learning is central to all programs.  The academic on-ground and on-line classrooms provide a rigorous environment, and students are expected to perform at a high level.  To make certain that each student understands the relationship between theory and practical application, students are expected to participate in co-operative education throughout their tenure at UoNA, and a minimum of two academic years of professional experience in a position directly related to the student’s field of studies, gained either prior to enrollment or through the university’s Co-operative Education Program, are required for all on-ground students for graduation. 

This work experience provides the direct link between theory and practice and enhances the application of the student’s learning.  Because the university is committed to applied learning throughout the student’s program and because the university believes that academic theory can best be understood when students understand the context in which theory is applied, students are expected to begin their co-operative learning experience during their first semester at the university.

The university’s degree programs require participation in a professional work experience in order to provide a coordinated learning opportunity for students. This linkage allows students to integrate theories learned into practical applications, gain professional work experience, establish contacts with other professionals in their fields, improve their interpersonal skills, and enhance their marketability after graduation. The employers who are a part of this program, in turn, receive motivated and eager student-employees with academically current skills.  To maximize their applied learning, students begin their co-operative education program on the first day of enrollment at the university.