university of notre dame common data set

3 min read 25-02-2025

The University of Notre Dame Common Data Set (CDS) is a treasure trove of information for prospective students, parents, and anyone interested in understanding the university's academic profile, student body demographics, and financial aid policies. This detailed guide will help you navigate the CDS and uncover valuable insights. Understanding this data can significantly aid your college application process and decision-making.

What is the Common Data Set?

The Common Data Set is a standardized form used by colleges and universities across the United States to report key data about their institutions. It provides a consistent way to compare different schools. Notre Dame, like many other institutions, submits this data annually. This allows for easy comparison with other universities. The information is publicly available and readily accessible.

Key Areas Covered in Notre Dame's CDS

Notre Dame's CDS covers a wide range of topics, making it a crucial resource for prospective students. Here are some key areas explored:

1. Student Body Demographics:

Geographic Distribution: The CDS reveals the home states and countries of Notre Dame's student body, providing insight into its diversity. You'll find data on the percentage of students from various regions, both domestically and internationally. This is useful for understanding the campus culture.
Race and Ethnicity: This section provides a breakdown of the student population based on race and ethnicity, reflecting the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion. These numbers provide a valuable perspective on student life.
Gender Distribution: The CDS reveals the proportion of male and female students enrolled at Notre Dame. Understanding the gender balance can be a factor in choosing a university.
First-generation Students: This data point highlights the number of students who are the first in their families to attend college. This provides context on the student population's background.

2. Academic Profile:

Admissions Data: This section details the number of applicants, acceptance rates, and enrollment figures. This data offers a realistic view of the university's selectivity.
Academic Programs: The CDS provides an overview of the undergraduate and graduate programs offered at Notre Dame, including majors, minors, and concentrations.
Faculty Data: Information on faculty size, qualifications, and full-time versus part-time status is also included. This provides context on teaching resources and research opportunities.
Graduation Rates: This important metric showcases the percentage of students who graduate within a certain timeframe. It reflects the university's success in supporting student success.

3. Financial Aid and Student Expenses:

Tuition and Fees: The CDS details the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room and board, and other expenses. This is vital for budgeting and financial planning.
Financial Aid: This section breaks down the types and amounts of financial aid awarded, including grants, loans, and scholarships. This data is essential for understanding potential financial aid opportunities.
Student Employment: The CDS includes statistics on the number of students who work while studying, revealing the prevalence of on-campus employment opportunities. This can aid in financial planning for college.

4. Student Life and Support Services:

Retention Rates: This data point reveals the percentage of students who return to Notre Dame for subsequent years. It reflects student satisfaction and engagement.
Student Activities: The CDS typically touches upon the variety of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations available to students.
Support Services: Information about academic advising, career services, health services, and other support systems is often included. This is valuable for assessing campus resources.

How to Access the Common Data Set

The University of Notre Dame's Common Data Set is typically available on their official website, usually within the admissions or institutional research sections. A simple web search for "Notre Dame Common Data Set" will usually lead you directly to the document.

Interpreting the Data Effectively

Once you've accessed the CDS, take your time to carefully review the data. Remember, numbers alone don't tell the whole story. Consider the context of the data and compare it with information from other sources, such as campus visits, student testimonials, and program-specific websites.

The Notre Dame Common Data Set is a powerful tool for prospective students. By understanding its contents, you can make a more informed decision about whether Notre Dame is the right fit for you. Use this comprehensive guide to navigate the CDS and discover valuable information relevant to your college search.