University of Notre Dame receives its charter from the state of Indiana.

Discover the University of Notre Dame: A Beacon of Catholic Education and Research

The University of Notre Dame du Lac, universally recognized as Notre Dame (pronounced NOH-tər-DAYM) or simply ND, stands as a distinguished private Catholic research university. Strategically located in Notre Dame, Indiana, just outside the bustling city of South Bend, it was established in 1842 by the visionary French priest Edward Sorin, a member of the Congregation of Holy Cross. Sorin's foundational vision was to create a prominent institution deeply rooted in Catholic intellectual tradition, providing rigorous academic pursuits alongside spiritual and moral formation, a mission that continues to guide the university today.

Iconic Campus and Architectural Marvels

The sprawling main campus of Notre Dame spans an impressive 1,261 acres (approximately 510 hectares) in a serene suburban setting, meticulously designed to inspire and educate. It is home to numerous nationally recognized landmarks that are central to the university's identity and heritage, drawing visitors and scholars from around the globe.

A Hub of Academic Excellence and Innovation

Consistently ranked among the top universities in the United States, Notre Dame is globally recognized for its commitment to academic rigor, groundbreaking research, and a holistic educational experience that shapes leaders for a global society. The university is structurally organized into seven distinct schools and colleges, each fostering specialized knowledge and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.

Comprehensive Graduate and Professional Programs

Notre Dame's robust graduate program offers more than 50 master's, doctoral, and professional degrees across its six graduate-offering schools. This includes the highly respected Notre Dame Law School, renowned for its challenging curriculum and commitment to justice and ethical legal practice. Furthermore, the university offers a unique MD–PhD program in a collaborative partnership with the Indiana University School of Medicine, providing an integrated path for aspiring physician-scientists who seek to combine clinical practice with biomedical research.

Specialized Architectural and Global Studies

The School of Architecture stands out for its dedicated focus on teaching New Classical Architecture, an approach emphasizing timeless design principles, sustainable practices, and traditional forms that connect with architectural heritage. It also plays a significant role in the global architectural community by annually awarding the prestigious Driehaus Architecture Prize, which honors contemporary practitioners whose work embodies and advances the principles of traditional and classical architecture. Beyond its unique architectural offerings, Notre Dame maintains an expansive network of global learning opportunities, with over 50 year-long study abroad programs and more than 15 intensive summer programs, allowing students to engage with diverse cultures, immerse themselves in international environments, and broaden their academic perspectives worldwide.

Vast Resources and Cultural Enrichment

The university boasts an extensive system of libraries, spearheaded by the monumental Hesburgh Library, which provides vast scholarly resources and state-of-the-art research facilities for its academic community. Additionally, Notre Dame enriches its community with numerous cultural venues and artistic and scientific museums, including the Snite Museum of Art, which houses a diverse collection spanning various historical periods and cultures, serving as a vital resource for education and cultural appreciation.

Vibrant Campus Life and Powerful Alumni Connections

A cornerstone of the Notre Dame experience is its distinctive residential life system, fostering a strong sense of community, spiritual growth, and lifelong belonging from the moment students arrive on campus.

Unique Residential Hall Experience

The majority of Notre Dame's approximately 8,000 undergraduates reside on campus, distributed among its 33 distinctive residence halls. Each hall is not merely a place to sleep but a vibrant, self-governing community with its own unique traditions, enduring legacies, lively social events, and competitive intramural sports teams, contributing significantly to the tight-knit "Domers" community and providing a supportive home away from home.

One of the Strongest Alumni Networks

With an estimated 134,000 alumni globally, Notre Dame proudly maintains one of the most extensive, loyal, and engaged college alumni networks in the United States. This powerful network provides invaluable support for current students and graduates alike through robust mentorship programs, unparalleled career opportunities, and lifelong connections that extend far beyond graduation, embodying the university's enduring spirit of community and mutual support.

A Storied Athletic Legacy: The Fighting Irish

Notre Dame's athletic teams, known collectively as the Fighting Irish, are proud members of the NCAA Division I, competing at the highest level of collegiate sports. The university's athletic prowess has significantly amplified its national and international profile, particularly through its renowned football program.

The Enduring Legacy of Notre Dame Football

The university's rise to national prominence in the early 20th century was significantly propelled by the legendary success of its football team, guided by iconic figures like coach Knute Rockne. As a fiercely independent program with no conference affiliation, Notre Dame football has accumulated an unparalleled record, including 11 consensus national championships, cementing its place as one of the most decorated programs in collegiate history. The team has also produced seven Heisman Trophy winners, 62 members of the College Football Hall of Fame, and 13 individuals enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, testifying to its consistent production of elite talent and contribution to the sport. The "Victory March," composed in 1908, is one of the most famous and recognizable collegiate fight songs, embodying the indomitable spirit of the Fighting Irish.

Excellence Across Diverse Sports

Beyond football, Notre Dame's teams in other sports, primarily competing within the highly competitive Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) since 2013, have achieved remarkable success. These programs have collectively secured 17 national championships across various disciplines, including soccer, fencing, and women's basketball. This broad athletic success underscores the university's comprehensive commitment to excellence in all competitive arenas and its deep-seated tradition of developing well-rounded student-athletes.

Historical Milestones and Future Trajectory

Notre Dame's journey of growth and transformation is marked by significant historical milestones, underscoring its enduring legacy and future aspirations as a leading global university.

The Transformative Era of Theodore Hesburgh

The university's profile underwent dramatic expansion and enhancement during the influential administration of Rev. Theodore Hesburgh, CSC, who served as president from 1952 to 1987. His visionary leadership was pivotal in significantly increasing Notre Dame's financial resources, vastly broadening its academic programs, and elevating its national and international reputation as a leading institution of higher learning. A landmark decision under his tenure was the university's first enrollment of women undergraduates in 1972, marking a significant step towards full coeducation and a more inclusive academic environment.

Continued Growth and Research Expansion

Since Hesburgh's tenure, Notre Dame has experienced steady and sustained growth, building upon its established foundations. Under the leadership of subsequent presidents, notably Rev. Edward Malloy, CSC, and the current president, Rev. John I. Jenkins, CSC, numerous critical infrastructure projects and significant research expansions have been successfully completed, further solidifying the university's position as a premier research institution dedicated to addressing complex global challenges. This continuous development has been supported by remarkable financial strength; as of June 30, 2021, the conclusion of its fiscal year, Notre Dame's endowment was valued at an impressive $20.3 billion, ranking among the largest of any U.S. university and providing a robust foundation for its future endeavors, including groundbreaking research and continued academic excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions About the University of Notre Dame

When was the University of Notre Dame founded?
The University of Notre Dame was founded on November 26, 1842, by Father Edward Sorin, CSC, a French priest from the Congregation of Holy Cross.
Where is Notre Dame located?
Notre Dame is located in Notre Dame, Indiana, an unincorporated community immediately north of the city of South Bend, Indiana. The campus is known for its picturesque suburban setting.
What is the significance of the Golden Dome?
The Golden Dome, perched atop the Main Building, is Notre Dame's most iconic symbol. It represents the university's spiritual foundation, intellectual aspirations, and the statue of the Blessed Mother at its apex underscores its profound Catholic identity.
Why is the "Word of Life" mural called "Touchdown Jesus"?
The "Word of Life" mural on the Hesburgh Library is colloquially known as "Touchdown Jesus" because, from inside Notre Dame Stadium, the upraised arms of Christ on the mural appear to be signaling a touchdown, creating a beloved and unique visual connection to the university's renowned football tradition.
Are women admitted to Notre Dame?
Yes, the University of Notre Dame first enrolled women undergraduates in 1972, making it a fully coeducational institution. Women have since become an integral and thriving part of the Notre Dame community, contributing significantly to its academic and cultural life.
What is the Notre Dame Fighting Irish mascot?
The official mascot for the University of Notre Dame's athletic teams, known as the Fighting Irish, is the Leprechaun, who embodies the spirit, resilience, and fighting determination often associated with Irish folklore.
Is Notre Dame football part of a conference?
No, the Notre Dame football team is notably an independent program, meaning it does not belong to a specific athletic conference for football. This unique status has been a long-standing tradition allowing it to maintain a flexible national schedule, though its other sports teams largely compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
How strong is Notre Dame's alumni network?
Notre Dame is widely recognized for having one of the strongest, most active, and most supportive alumni networks in the United States, comprising approximately 134,000 members worldwide. This network provides significant support, mentorship, and career opportunities for current students and graduates, fostering a lifelong connection to the university.