Because our tradition informs our progress

Tradition of progress
Staying on the forefront of education takes constant innovation. That’s why we expose students to a variety of disciplines, from arts to sociology to the sciences. We developnot only the intellect but the well-rounded character needed to solve today’s challenging problems. And with a culture grounded in the Catholic values of service and respect for humanity, our students learn to live life with meaning and purpose. While conventional wisdom has advancedthe world to where it is today, it’s the conviction to shape and reshape those conventions that will continue our progress into the future.

Academics
We believe that a rewarding education should do more than just teach—it should facilitate learning. At the University of Notre Dame, you’ll develop powers of discernment that allow you to discover the right questions, not just the right answers. You’ll benefit from powerful resources like the IDEA Center, a collaborative innovation hub dedicated to expanding the technological and societal impact of the University’s innovations. The Center provides the necessary space, services, and expertise for idea development, commercialization, business formation, prototyping, entrepreneurial education, and student entrepreneurial efforts. The IDEA Center allows you to unlock discoveries, fuel genius, and advance the common good.

Catholic tradition
“I came here as a young man and dreamed of building a great university in honor of Our Lady, but I built it too small, and she had to burn it to the ground to make the point. So, tomorrow, as soon as the bricks cool, we will rebuild it, bigger and better than ever.” These are the words of Notre Dame founder Father Edward Sorin in 1879 after a fire had burned down virtually the entire University. These words echo the role of Catholicism at NotreDame; rather than being a miniscule part of our experience, it should be built as a grand gesture of hope, reverence, and examination. We challenge students to search for unconventional answers and consider their wider role in the world. While our traditions are founded in Catholicism, we welcome all religions, beliefs, and ideas in the spirit of mutual respect. Discovering your faith is a personal experience, but at Notre Dame, you’ll never be alone in it.

Community
As a Catholic institution of research and scholarship, we believe in examining our faith, studies, and community from all angles. That’s why we embrace an atmosphere of diversity and inclusion that enriches all facets of the Notre Dame experience. Our 30 unique residence halls reflect this commitment to solidarity, showing how a diverse group of individuals can become one tight-knit community. Years after you leave, you’ll continue to draw upon the unique relationships and connections you’ve developed at Notre Dame. Whether it’s maintaining friendships with your first-year roommates or engaging in a conversation with a stranger wearing the Blue and Gold, you’ll be a Domer for the rest of your life.

Campus life
We understand that to get the most out of your studies, you have to enjoy your life outside of them. That’s why our students participate in activities that bring the campus community together, like the annual Muddy Sunday volleyball game for charity or the Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore Basketball Tournament, the largest outdoor five-on-five basketball tournament in the world. We encourage you to get out and experience all we have to offer, no matter your interests and passions. The experience and perspective you gain is as important to developing your character as the lessons you learn in the classroom.

Value
The value of a Notre Dame education isn’t determined by a challenging curriculum; it comes from giving students the intrepid spirit to make ethical decisions with conviction. Our curriculum allows you to explore a variety of topics and issues, giving you a better understanding of the world around you and the opportunity to choose the path that’s right for you. And with 95% of our students graduating on time, the confidence we impart shows in their character and performance. Notre Dame also has one of the widest and most influential alumni networks in the world. It’s one of the reasons that 98% of our graduates find career opportunities within six months of graduation. At Notre Dame, we believe real value is four years of education that lasts a lifetime.