Notre Dame College

About Notre Dame College

Notre Dame College in Cleveland, Ohio offers an accessible private Catholic education emphasizing personalized attention and career preparation in a supportive community environment. With approximately 1,792 students, this suburban institution provides an intimate setting where students are known by name and receive individualized support throughout their academic journey. Founded in 1922 by the Sisters of Notre Dame, the college maintains its Catholic identity while welcoming students of all faiths who seek education grounded in values and service. The 90% acceptance rate reflects Notre Dame College's mission to provide opportunity for motivated students who may not have thrived in traditional educational environments, including those with learning differences who benefit from specialized support services. The college's Academic Support Center for Students with Learning Differences has earned national recognition for its comprehensive approach to helping students succeed. Located in suburban South Euclid, the campus provides a safe, focused environment while remaining connected to the opportunities of metropolitan Cleveland. Notre Dame College emphasizes practical education that prepares graduates for immediate career entry while developing the critical thinking and communication skills that support long-term professional growth. The small community creates a family-like atmosphere where students build relationships with faculty, staff, and peers that extend well beyond graduation.

Notre Dame College employs a holistic admissions process designed to identify students who will benefit from and contribute to its supportive educational community. The 90% acceptance rate reflects the college's mission to provide opportunity for motivated students, including those who may not have excelled in traditional educational settings but demonstrate potential for college success. Applicants are evaluated on high school academic records, personal essays, recommendations, and demonstrated motivation to succeed. The college's renowned support for students with learning differences attracts applicants who benefit from specialized academic services, with the Academic Support Center providing evaluation and support planning as part of the admissions process. Standardized test scores may be considered but are not the primary factor in admission decisions. Campus visits are encouraged to help prospective students experience the community atmosphere and meet with admissions counselors and faculty. Transfer students from community colleges and other institutions find welcoming pathways with generous credit transfer policies. International students add diversity to the campus community. Rolling admissions provides flexibility in application timing. Financial aid packaging begins immediately upon admission, with counselors working closely with families to make attendance affordable.

Notre Dame College offers more than thirty undergraduate programs spanning liberal arts, sciences, business, education, and healthcare fields, each designed to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application. The curriculum integrates a core liberal arts foundation with specialized professional preparation, ensuring graduates possess both broad intellectual capabilities and career-ready skills. Class sizes averaging fewer than fifteen students enable meaningful interaction with faculty who prioritize teaching excellence and student mentorship. The college's renowned Academic Support Center provides comprehensive services for students with learning differences, including specialized tutoring, assistive technology, and individualized accommodation plans that help students develop strategies for academic and professional success. Education programs prepare teachers for Ohio classrooms with emphasis on practical field experience beginning early in the degree program. Nursing programs feature state-of-the-art simulation facilities and clinical partnerships with major Cleveland healthcare systems. Business programs connect students with the regional business community through internships and professional networking opportunities. Criminal justice and sports management programs have grown significantly, reflecting student interest and career opportunities. Faculty members maintain close relationships with students, providing academic advising, career guidance, and personal support that larger institutions cannot match.

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Suburban campus with easy access to city resources
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Student life at Notre Dame College centers on the tight-knit community that forms when a small student body shares campus experiences and supports one another's growth. Residential students live in halls that foster community building and peer connection, with programming designed to create a home away from home. Commuter students remain integrated into campus life through student organizations, events, and dedicated spaces that welcome their participation. The Catholic identity informs campus programming and provides spiritual resources while maintaining an inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds. Athletic programs compete in NCAA Division II, offering opportunities for student-athletes to pursue competitive sports while maintaining focus on academics. The Falcon athletic tradition builds school spirit and provides entertainment for the campus community. More than forty student organizations cover interests from cultural celebration to community service to professional development. Campus Ministry provides opportunities for faith exploration, service projects, and spiritual growth. Student government and leadership positions develop skills while allowing students to shape the college experience. Annual events including Homecoming, Spring Fest, and cultural celebrations create shared memories. The small community means every student can find their place and make meaningful impact on campus life.

Location & Surroundings

South Euclid, Ohio provides Notre Dame College students with a suburban setting that combines safety and focus with access to metropolitan Cleveland's resources and opportunities. The community of approximately 21,000 residents offers a pleasant environment with local shops and restaurants within easy reach of campus. Cleveland, one of the major cities of the Great Lakes region, lies just minutes away via convenient highway connections. University Circle, Cleveland's cultural hub, features world-class institutions including the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Orchestra at Severance Hall, and Case Western Reserve University. Downtown Cleveland provides professional internship opportunities across industries including healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and professional services. The Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals system create particularly strong pathways for nursing and healthcare students. Progressive Field and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse host professional baseball and basketball, while FirstEnergy Stadium brings NFL football to the lakefront. Lake Erie offers recreational opportunities and summer festivals. The cost of living in Cleveland remains moderate compared to coastal cities, allowing student budgets to stretch further. Hopkins International Airport provides travel connections, while excellent highway systems facilitate regional access. The changing seasons bring distinct experiences throughout the year.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Attending Notre Dame College represents an investment in personalized education with strong career preparation in an affordable metropolitan area. Financial aid packages combine grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans to make attendance accessible for students from diverse economic backgrounds. Merit scholarships recognize academic achievement and special talents, while need-based aid helps families manage educational costs. The cost of living in Cleveland allows student budgets to extend further than in more expensive regions. Career services connect students with professional opportunities in Cleveland's diverse economy, with particular strength in healthcare, education, and business placements. Internship programs place students in organizations throughout the region, building experience and professional networks before graduation. The nursing program boasts strong placement rates in major Cleveland healthcare systems. Education graduates find teaching positions throughout Ohio schools. Business and criminal justice programs connect students with regional employers who value Notre Dame College preparation. Alumni networks, though smaller than those of larger institutions, provide meaningful mentorship and job connections. Graduate school preparation helps students pursue advanced degrees when their goals require further education. The supportive community creates graduates who feel equipped and confident entering their careers, with the skills and character development that employers value.