Notre Dame of Maryland University
Acceptance rate
82.2%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$43,360
$57,360 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
709
Student-faculty ratio 9:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
50.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 60.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Notre Dame of Maryland University (NDMU) is a distinguished institution located in Baltimore, Maryland. Established in 1873, it stands as one of the oldest women's colleges in the United States. NDMU is known for its commitment to liberal arts education and the empowerment of women. The university emphasizes a strong academic foundation, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including education, nursing, and business. One of the distinguishing features of the university is its dedication to social justice and community service, reflected in its motto: "Veritas et Caritas," which translates to "Truth and Charity." This guiding principle is embedded in the university's ethos, encouraging students to contribute positively to society.
The campus itself is a vibrant and welcoming environment, featuring beautiful historic buildings and modern facilities that support a comprehensive educational experience. NDMU offers a variety of student life opportunities, including clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that promote both personal and professional growth. The university's strong focus on mentorship and small class sizes allows for personalized attention from faculty, fostering a close-knit academic community. Graduates from NDMU are well-prepared for the workforce, with a notable emphasis on career readiness and internships, leading to successful employment outcomes. The university's rich history and commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment make it a remarkable choice for students seeking a quality education rooted in values and community engagement.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Notre Dame of Maryland University
Over the past decade, Notre Dame of Maryland University has experienced significant changes in tuition rates, student enrollment, and graduation rates that highlight ongoing trends in higher education. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has consistently increased from approximately $32,050 in 2014 to around $41,910 in 2024, marking an increase of nearly 30%. This steady rise in tuition reflects a broader trend across many institutions, where the cost of higher education continues to escalate, often outpacing inflation and wage growth, creating a financial burden for students and families.
Simultaneously, the university has seen a decline in undergraduate enrollment, dropping from 1,234 students in 2014 to just 660 in 2023. This substantial decrease raises concerns about the university's appeal and competitiveness in a landscape where many institutions are vying for fewer traditional college-age students. It also prompts a reflection on the impact of rising costs on student decisions regarding enrollment.
Graduation rates have exhibited some volatility, with the percentage of students graduating on time fluctuating significantly over the years. For instance, the on-time graduation rate dropped to approximately 38% in 2020 but rebounded to around 40% in 2023. These rates indicate challenges in student retention and successful completion of programs, which may be influenced by various factors, including financial pressures, academic support systems, and overall student satisfaction.
Moreover, the retention rate has also seen a decline, from over 84% in 2015 to about 62% in 2023. This drop could be indicative of students facing difficulties in persisting through their studies, possibly exacerbated by the rising costs of attendance and a changing educational environment post-pandemic.
In conclusion, the trends observed at Notre Dame of Maryland University serve as a microcosm of the challenges and changes facing many higher education institutions today. Balancing the need for revenue through tuition increases against maintaining enrollment and graduation success will be crucial for the university's future sustainability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Baltimore
- Nearest international airport
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), about 10 mi
- Also known as
- NDMU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Mary Lou Yam (President)
- Phone
- 4104350100
- Address
- 4701 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21210-2476
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 0.0%, women 61.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Notre Dame of Maryland University
The admission statistics for Notre Dame of Maryland University reveal intriguing patterns over the years, particularly regarding gender-specific acceptance rates and overall enrollment trends. From 2009 to 2023, the university has shown a significant fluctuation in both male and female acceptance rates. For instance, the female acceptance rate started at approximately 71.3% in 2009 but saw a decline, reaching around 55.4% in 2012 and further dropping to about 56% in 2023. This trend indicates an increasingly competitive admission environment, which may reflect a growing applicant pool or a shift in the university's admission strategies.
Interestingly, the number of enrollments has varied significantly, with the highest recorded enrollment of 226 in 2019, coinciding with the highest rejection rate of 876.6%. This suggests that while the university may have been more selective, it also managed to attract a larger number of students, which could be indicative of its rising reputation and appeal.
Moreover, the data reveals that the number of applications denied has consistently been high, particularly in recent years, with 634 denials in 2022 and 511 in 2023. This trend may speak to the university's commitment to maintaining a certain academic standard, but it also raises questions about accessibility and inclusivity in higher education.
Overall, Notre Dame of Maryland University's admission statistics underline important shifts in higher education dynamics, particularly in female enrollment and institutional selectivity, which resonate with broader trends observed across many universities in the United States.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty2 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Notre Dame of Maryland University
The data from Notre Dame of Maryland University reveals significant trends in SAT and ACT scores over the years from 2007 to 2023. A noticeable observation is the fluctuation in the number of students submitting SAT scores. For instance, in 2018, only 47% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, dropping to just 8% in 2019. This decline could reflect a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are adopting test-optional policies, making it less critical for students to submit standardized test scores for admission.
Regarding the scores themselves, the range for the SAT reading section shows some variability, with the 25th percentile starting at 440 in 2018 and reaching 490 in 2017. The upper range (75th percentile) has remained relatively consistent, hovering between 580 and 590 over the years. This suggests that while the lower-performing students have varied, the higher-performing students have maintained a steady level of achievement.
The ACT scores follow a similar pattern, with the composite scores seeing slight fluctuations but largely remaining within a consistent range. For example, the composite score range from 2010 to 2023 shows a stable performance among the top 75% of students.
As universities increasingly consider holistic admissions processes, the emphasis on standardized test scores may continue to diminish. The data indicates that Notre Dame of Maryland University is adapting to these trends, potentially reshaping its admission landscape to focus more on other aspects of student qualifications and experiences.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,803 applicants in 2025, 82.2% admitted
2,303 admitted 500 not admitted Yield 7.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's74 (0% international)
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services, Other · Master's57 (9% international)
- Pharmacy · Doctoral40 (8% international)
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's38 (26% international)
- Yoga Teacher Training/Yoga Therapy · Master's20 (0% international)
- Herbalism/Herbalist · Master's19 (5% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Notre Dame of Maryland University
The graduation data for 2023 at Notre Dame of Maryland University reveals some intriguing trends, particularly in the fields of education and health sciences. Notably, the university graduates a significant number of master's degree holders in education, with 117 graduates in general education, highlighting the institution's strong focus on teacher preparation and educational leadership. This emphasis is consistent with national trends, where there is a growing demand for qualified educators amid ongoing educational reforms and workforce needs.
In health-related programs, the university has produced 54 doctorate graduates, marking a significant contribution to the healthcare workforce, particularly in nursing and therapy disciplines. This aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals in a post-pandemic world, where a robust healthcare system is paramount. Interestingly, the university also graduated a small number of international students, which may reflect the need for broader recruitment strategies to attract a diverse student body, especially in high-demand fields.
On the other hand, areas such as liberal arts and sciences, including psychology and biology, show minimal graduation figures, with only a few bachelor and master graduates. This raises questions about the university's curricular focus and whether there is a need to enhance offerings in these disciplines to meet student interests and labor market demands.
Overall, the data underscores a strong commitment to education and health sciences at Notre Dame of Maryland University, while also suggesting potential growth opportunities in other academic areas to bolster overall graduation rates and student diversity.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $62,996 | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | |||
| Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | - | |||
| Education/Teaching of the Gifted and Talented. | $66,659 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | $66,659 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $61,919 | |||
| Education, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $47,584 | |||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $47,584 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | |||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Science/Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History and Political Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics, General. | - |
Students
1,788 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 21:79 · Freshman retention 72.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 446
- First-year undergraduates 179
- Graduate students 1,079
- Transfers and others 84
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (709)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Notre Dame of Maryland University in 2023
The student demographics at Notre Dame of Maryland University in 2023 reveal a significant gender disparity, particularly among undergraduate students. Among the incoming freshmen, the entire cohort consists of female students, highlighting a trend towards a largely female representation in this category. This contrasts sharply with the upperclassmen, where males account for approximately 3.5% of the population.
The graduate student body shows a more balanced gender distribution, with 21.1% male representation, indicating a growing inclusion of men in advanced studies compared to the undergraduate levels. This shift may reflect broader societal changes encouraging male participation in higher education, particularly at the graduate level.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the data suggests a predominance of white students across all categories, although specific figures for each subgroup are not disclosed. The underrepresentation of other racial and ethnic groups raises questions about inclusivity and the university's outreach efforts.
The overall landscape at Notre Dame of Maryland University exemplifies the ongoing challenges and opportunities in higher education demographics, particularly concerning gender balance and racial diversity. As institutions strive to create more inclusive environments, understanding these trends is crucial for shaping future policies and initiatives aimed at fostering a diverse student body that reflects the society at large.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Notre Dame of Maryland University
The age composition of students at Notre Dame of Maryland University in 2023 reveals a diverse demographic landscape. Notably, the majority of undergraduate females are concentrated in the 18-19 and 20-21 age groups, with 111 students each, reflecting the enrollment trends typical of traditional college-aged students. This demographic is crucial as it often represents the transitional phase from high school to higher education.
Interestingly, the age group of 25-29 shows a significant presence, particularly among undergraduate females, with 210 students. This indicates a robust participation of non-traditional students, who may be pursuing their degrees later in life, perhaps due to career changes or personal circumstances. The increase in this age bracket aligns with national trends where more adults are returning to education, driven by the need for advanced skills in a competitive job market.
The data also highlights a notable number of graduate students in the 22-24 age range, suggesting that many students are opting to continue their education immediately after undergraduate studies. Meanwhile, the 30-34 age group reflects a balanced participation of both genders among graduate students, emphasizing the university's appeal to older, working professionals seeking further education.
Overall, the age distribution at Notre Dame of Maryland University showcases a blend of traditional and non-traditional students, which is increasingly common in higher education institutions today. This diversity not only enriches the learning environment but also prepares students for a workforce that values varied experiences and perspectives.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
25 in 2025 · 2.1% in 2016
21 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Notre Dame of Maryland University
The data from Notre Dame of Maryland University illustrates a notable decline in the enrollment of international students over the years, particularly in undergraduate and graduate programs. In 2004, the undergraduate population included 22 international students, which represented 1.39% of the total undergraduate enrollment. However, by 2023, this percentage plummeted to a mere 0.61%, with only 4 international students in a total of 660 undergraduates.
The graduate program also reflects a concerning trend. The proportion of international students reached its peak in 2008, with 8.93% of the graduate student body. Since then, there has been a significant decline, with only 0.75% in 2023. The number of international graduate students has dwindled from 172 in 2008 to just 8 in the most recent year.
This downward trajectory is indicative of broader trends affecting universities across the United States, where various factors such as visa regulations, increasing tuition costs, and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to the challenges faced by institutions in attracting international talent.
The decline in international enrollment could have implications for the university, including reduced diversity on campus, diminished cultural exchange opportunities, and potential financial impacts due to decreased enrollment figures. As higher education institutions continue to navigate a changing global landscape, it becomes crucial for Notre Dame of Maryland University to implement strategies aimed at revitalizing its international student recruitment efforts to foster a more inclusive and globally engaged academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$57,360
- Undergraduate tuition
- $43,360
- Room and board
- $14,000
- Graduate tuition
- $12,731
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 28%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$63.7M
Expenses$45.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · North Eastern Athletic Conference
North Eastern Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 24 | 16 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | - | 14 |
| Lacrosse | - | 13 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Cross Country | 5 | 7 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 5 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 21 | 17 |
| Basketball | 17 | 16 |
| Lacrosse | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Tennis | - | 11 |
| Cross Country | - | 5 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | - | 14 |
| Basketball | - | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Lacrosse | - | 12 |
| Softball | - | 12 |
| Field Hockey | - | 10 |
| Tennis | - | 9 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 2 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore · 1.5 mi
U.S. News #9
-
St. John's College (MD)Annapolis · 26.4 mi
Liberal Arts #81
-
United States Naval AcademyAnnapolis · 26.6 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
University of Maryland-College ParkCollege Park · 30.5 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Howard UniversityWashington · 36.5 mi
U.S. News #73
-
George Washington UniversityWashington · 38.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Georgetown UniversityWashington · 39.0 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Gettysburg CollegeGettysburg · 47.0 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 50.8 mi
Liberal Arts #34
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around Notre Dame of Maryland University:
-
Johns Hopkins University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious institution is renowned for its research and medical programs. It is a comprehensive university located in Baltimore, Maryland.
-
University of Maryland-Baltimore County - With a rank of 133, this comprehensive university is known for its strong emphasis on research and a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
United States Naval Academy - Ranked 3rd, this federal service academy is located in Annapolis, Maryland, and is known for its rigorous academic programs and naval training.
-
Georgetown University - A prestigious comprehensive university ranked 22nd, it is located in Washington, D.C. and is known for its strong programs in international relations, law, and business.
-
George Washington University - Ranked 67th, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of programs and is located in the heart of the nation's capital, providing students with unique opportunities for internships and networking.
-
American University - With a rank of 105, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its commitment to social justice and public service.
These institutions contribute to a rich educational landscape in the Maryland and Washington, D.C. area, offering a variety of programs and opportunities for students.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Notre Dame of Maryland University
The crime data from Notre Dame of Maryland University over the years shows a significant decline in reported incidents. In 2013, the average crime rate was 1.75 per 1000 students, which increased to a peak of 2.99 in 2014. However, following that year, there has been a noticeable downward trend in crime rates, culminating in zero reported crimes from 2021 through 2023.
This decrease could be attributed to improved campus safety measures, increased awareness and education on personal safety, or a more engaged campus community. The absence of any reported incidents in recent years is particularly encouraging, suggesting that students may feel safer on campus, which can enhance their overall educational experience.
Moreover, the types of offenses recorded, including gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents, highlight areas that universities must continually address. The data indicates that while there were some incidents relating to weapons and drugs, the frequency has decreased significantly in recent years, which may reflect not only effective policing but also preventative measures and outreach programs aimed at addressing these issues.
Overall, the trend of declining crime rates at Notre Dame of Maryland University is promising and could serve as a model for other institutions seeking to enhance campus safety. Continuous efforts in maintaining a secure environment should remain a priority to ensure that this trend persists. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Notre Dame of Maryland University include Frances Benjamin Johnston (American photographer and photojournalist), Elizabeth P. Hoisington (US Army officer, one of first two women brigadier generals) and Kit Reed (Author of speculative and literary fiction).
-
Frances Benjamin Johnston 1864–1952
American photographer and photojournalist
-
Elizabeth P. Hoisington 1918–2007
US Army officer, one of first two women brigadier generals
-
Kit Reed 1932–2017
Author of speculative and literary fiction
-
Frances Maule Bjorkman 1879–1966
New York suffragist and writer
-
Carmen M. Amedori 1955–2024
Journalist and Maryland House of Delegates member
-
Susan Love 1948–2023
Surgeon and breast cancer research advocate
-
Susan L. M. Aumann 1960–
Member of the Maryland House of Delegates
-
Helen Dortch Longstreet 1863–1962
Newspaper editor, publisher and librarian
-
Mary Ann Lisanti 1967–
Democratic member of the Maryland House of Delegates
More alumni (2, by field)
Politics and law
-
Irene Patricia Murphy Keeley 1944–
United States federal district judge
-
Aletheia McCaskill 1971–
Maryland House of Delegates member
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.