Overview of the University of Notre Dame
The University of Notre Dame, officially named the University of Notre Dame du Lac, was founded in 1842. It is located in Notre Dame, Indiana, United States. As a private, Catholic research-intensive university, Notre Dame is renowned for its combination of robust scholarly tradition and teaching excellence. The institution enrolls approximately 13,000 students, comprising around 8,900 undergraduates and 4,100 graduate and professional students. The university operates a single main campus with 12 colleges and schools, fostering a cohesive yet diverse academic environment.
Notre Dame is recognized globally for its leadership in areas such as engineering, business, architecture, humanities, and the social sciences. Signature programs include the Mendoza College of Business, a highly ranked School of Architecture, and innovative research in law, political science, and the sciences. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary education through its Core Curriculum, supporting both foundational knowledge and intellectual exploration. With annual research expenditures exceeding $244 million and numerous international collaborations—including partnerships with universities in Europe, Asia, and Latin America—Notre Dame maintains a robust research profile. It consistently ranks among the top 20 national universities in the United States in major global and national rankings, and is a member of prestigious academic networks such as the Association of American Universities (AAU).
Campus life at Notre Dame is vibrant, offering students more than 500 clubs and organizations, including academic societies, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university is known for its close-knit residential college system, fostering strong community bonds and holistic development. Students enjoy a full spectrum of extracurricular activities, from Division I athletics and extensive intramural sports to world-class performing arts and campus traditions. Comprehensive support services underpin a commitment to student well-being, and an inclusive campus culture welcomes students from all backgrounds—representing all 50 U.S. states and over 100 countries—strengthening Notre Dame’s global perspective.
Notre Dame’s mission is to foster scholarship, leadership, and service rooted in Catholic social teaching. The university aspires to cultivate ethical global citizens who pursue innovation, academic excellence, and positive societal impact, guided by values of integrity, inclusion, and sustainability.
