Notre Dame of Maryland University logo

Notre Dame of Maryland University

Baltimore, MD Private ยท Urban www.ndm.edu
Accept Rate
86.49%
Grad Rate
55.1%
Enrollment
684
Tuition
$41,910
Median Salary
$65,344
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
A+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Notre Dame of Maryland University offers a close-knit, supportive atmosphere where students are known by name, not just by student ID. With a small enrollment of under 700, the campus feels intimate and community-focused, fostering strong connections between students and faculty. It feels like a place where you can find your voice and grow personally and academically in a nurturing environment.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

86.49%
Open Admission

Test Optional

This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission

Admissions Tips

As a test-optional school, focus on crafting a compelling personal essay that highlights your resilience and alignment with Notre Dame's mission of service and leadership. Since the acceptance rate is 86%, meeting the GPA benchmarks for your desired major (especially in STEM or health fields) is crucial for standing out. Be sure to express specific interest in their unique single-sex undergraduate model and how it fits your academic goals.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1200
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

The university excels in professional preparation, particularly in health professions, biology, and education, leveraging its status as a women's undergraduate college within a coeducational graduate school. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and mentorship from faculty who are focused on teaching. While research opportunities exist, they are often tailored to the undergraduate experience rather than large-scale research output.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
69.2%
Multidisciplinary Studies
4.7%
Biology & Biomedical
3.6%
Business & Marketing
1.6%
Social Sciences
1.6%
Psychology
1.2%
Communications
1.2%
Physical Sciences
1.2%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

55.1%
Graduation Rate
76.8%
Retention Rate
684
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$41,910
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$24,536
After financial aid
Total Cost
$60,362
Cost of attendance/year
32.3%
Receive Pell Grants
77.4%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Baltimore

Students have access to the vibrant cultural and social scene of Baltimore, including the Inner Harbor, Fells Point, and the city's renowned restaurant and arts districts. The university's location allows for easy access to internships and volunteer opportunities in the city's major hospitals and non-profits. Campus life is quieter, but students often organize trips and events to explore the city together.

Local Rent Check

$1,582 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Baltimore
Explore Baltimore

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$167,640
$0Est. 4 Years: $167,640

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($65,344):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is located in a residential Baltimore neighborhood and maintains its own campus safety department with 24/7 patrols and emergency call boxes. While the surrounding area requires standard urban awareness, the campus itself is generally considered safe, though students are advised to be cautious when venturing off-campus.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ High acceptance rate makes it accessible for many applicants.
  • โœ“ Strong focus on career-oriented majors like Health Professions and Biology.
  • โœ“ Small, intimate class sizes with personalized faculty attention.
  • โœ“ Same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students.

Cons

  • โœ— Low graduation rate (55.1%) can be a concern for student persistence.
  • โœ— Small enrollment may limit the breadth of social and extracurricular options.
  • โœ— Urban setting requires vigilance regarding personal safety off-campus.

Notable Alumni

Sister M. Ignatia Gavin
A pioneer in the treatment of alcoholism who worked with Dr. Bob Smith, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Mary L. Smith
Former White House Chief of Staff and a prominent leader in public policy and law.
Sharon P. Robinson
Former President and CEO of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.

Frequently Asked Questions

Notre Dame of Maryland University is primarily known for its strong undergraduate programs in Health Professions, Biology, and Education, operating as a women's college for undergraduates while offering coeducational graduate programs. It is recognized for its intimate, supportive learning environment and commitment to the liberal arts and professional preparation.

No, it is not highly selective; the acceptance rate is 86.49%. Applicants with a solid GPA and a completed application are generally admitted. However, competitive applicants for specialized programs like nursing should ensure they meet or exceed specific science and math prerequisites.

Campus life is intimate and community-oriented due to the very small enrollment of 684 students. As a women's undergraduate college, it offers a unique social dynamic focused on leadership and empowerment, with access to the broader resources of Baltimore city just minutes away.

It can be a worthwhile investment, especially if you qualify for financial aid to lower the net price below the sticker price. With median earnings of $65,344 ten years after graduation, the ROI is positive for students who graduate and enter high-demand fields like healthcare. However, the cost is only worth it if you utilize the small class sizes to secure strong grades and internships.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

MedStar Health Johns Hopkins Health System University of Maryland Medical System T. Rowe Price CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
Smart Start Score
65

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,185
  • In-State Tuition $41,910
  • Zip Code 21210

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 11% โ™€ 89%

The Money Talk

With an out-of-state tuition of $41,910 that is identical to the in-state rate, the financial value depends heavily on scholarships and aid; the average net price of $24,536 is significantly more manageable. The 10-year median earnings of $65,344 for graduates suggest a solid return on investment, particularly for those entering high-demand fields like nursing and biology. However, the 55% graduation rate means students must be committed to finishing their degree to maximize the financial payoff.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $41,910
Housing (12 mo) $18,984
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $68,094
With avg financial aid:
$24,536/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.