Notre Dame MBA Program
- MBA admission Experts
- 5 days ago
- 21 min read
Ranked among the top MBA programs in the United States, the Notre Dame MBA is designed to prepare students for impactful careers across a wide range of industries. Whether your interest lies in consulting, finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, or social impact, Notre Dame provides the tools, network, and support to help you achieve your goals. In this blog we will cover the details of this MBA Program.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Notre Dame MBA Program
The Notre Dame MBA, offered by the Mendoza College of Business, is a highly respected, full-time MBA program based in South Bend, Indiana. Known for its values-driven leadership approach, this program combines academic rigor with a strong ethical foundation—an ideal choice for future leaders who seek not only professional excellence but also personal purpose.
What Sets Notre Dame Apart?
The Notre Dame MBA stands out for several reasons:
Values-Based Curriculum: Ethical leadership and social responsibility are central to the Mendoza philosophy, shaping students to become responsible leaders in a global business environment.
Small Class Size: With a close-knit cohort of around 130 students, the program fosters deep connections, collaborative learning, and personalized attention from faculty.
Global Perspective: Opportunities for international study and consulting projects give students global exposure and practical experience.
Strong Career Outcomes: Notre Dame MBA graduates consistently secure roles at top companies such as Amazon, Deloitte, EY, McKinsey, and more.
Program Options
Notre Dame offers multiple MBA paths tailored to diverse career needs:
Two-Year MBA: The flagship full-time program, ideal for career changers or those seeking internships.
One-Year MBA: A fast-track option for candidates with an undergraduate business degree or significant work experience.
Dual Degrees: Combine the MBA with other disciplines such as Engineering (MBA/MS), Law (MBA/JD), or Nonprofit Administration (MBA/MNA).
Academic Excellence and Rankings
The Mendoza College of Business consistently earns accolades from respected sources:
Top 25 U.S. MBA Program – U.S. News & World Report
Number 5 for Ethics and Corporate Responsibility – Bloomberg Businessweek
High Return on Investment – Poets & Quants and Financial Times
Notre Dame MBA at a Glance
Feature | Details |
Location | South Bend, Indiana, USA |
Program Length | 1-year or 2-year options available |
Class Size | ~130 students (2-year MBA) |
Average GMAT | 680–710 |
Work Experience (Average) | 4.5–5 years |
International Students | ~25–30% of the cohort |
Core Strengths | Consulting, Finance, Leadership, Ethics, Marketing |
Ideal Candidate Profile
Notre Dame MBA students are diverse, ambitious, and driven by more than just professional success. Ideal candidates often demonstrate:
Leadership experience
A commitment to ethical decision-making
Career clarity or a strong desire to pivot
A willingness to contribute to a collaborative, mission-driven community
Key Features and Unique Selling Points of the Notre Dame MBA
The Notre Dame MBA isn't just about mastering debits and credits or understanding market dynamics. It's a deeply immersive experience crafted to cultivate leaders who not only excel professionally but also make a positive impact on the world. Rooted in a strong ethical framework, powered by an exceptionally loyal alumni network, and renowned for its focus on personal and professional growth, the Notre Dame MBA offers a truly differentiated path to leadership.
Let's explore the defining characteristics that set the Notre Dame MBA apart:
1. Unwavering Emphasis on Ethics and Values:
"Ask More of Business™": This isn't just a tagline; it's the core philosophy that permeates the entire program. The curriculum is intentionally designed to integrate ethical considerations into every aspect of business decision-making. You'll grapple with complex moral dilemmas, explore the social responsibility of corporations, and learn to lead with integrity and purpose.
Dedicated Ethics Courses: Unlike programs that might weave ethics in as a secondary theme, Notre Dame offers dedicated courses that delve deeply into ethical frameworks and their practical application in the business world.
Focus on Stakeholder Value: The program emphasizes creating value for all stakeholders – employees, customers, communities, and the environment – not just shareholders. This fosters a more holistic and sustainable approach to business.
2. The Power of the Notre Dame Network:
"The Fighting Irish" Connection: The Notre Dame alumni network is legendary for its loyalty and willingness to support fellow graduates. This isn't just a casual connection; it's a deeply ingrained culture of helping each other succeed.
Global Reach, Personal Touch: With alumni chapters around the world, you'll have access to a powerful network regardless of your career aspirations or location. Yet, the connections often feel personal and genuinely supportive.
Industry Leaders and Changemakers: The network comprises leaders across diverse industries and individuals making significant contributions in their fields, providing invaluable mentorship and career opportunities.
3. A Holistic Approach to Leadership Development:
Personalized Leadership Coaching: The program invests in your individual growth through dedicated leadership coaching. You'll receive personalized feedback, identify your strengths and areas for development, and craft a leadership style that is authentic and effective.
Emphasis on Teamwork and Collaboration: Recognizing that business is rarely a solo endeavor, the curriculum heavily emphasizes teamwork and collaborative projects, honing your ability to work effectively in diverse groups.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Beyond quantitative analysis, the program places significant value on developing strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills – essential for effective leadership.
4. Experiential Learning Opportunities:
Real-World Case Studies: You'll analyze complex business challenges through the lens of real-world case studies, developing your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Consulting Projects: Many students have the opportunity to engage in real consulting projects with businesses and organizations, applying their classroom learning to solve tangible problems.
Global Immersion Experiences: Expanding your global perspective is crucial in today's interconnected world. Notre Dame offers various global immersion programs to provide firsthand experience in international business environments.
5. A Reputation for Impact and Purpose:
Graduates Who Make a Difference: Notre Dame MBA graduates are known not only for their business success but also for their commitment to using their skills and influence for good.
Focus on Social Impact: The program encourages students to consider the broader societal impact of their decisions and explore opportunities in social entrepreneurship and impact investing.
A Legacy of Leadership: For decades, Notre Dame has been shaping principled leaders who are equipped to navigate complexity and drive positive change in the world.
In a sea of MBA programs, the Notre Dame MBA offers a distinctive blend of rigorous business education and a profound commitment to ethical leadership. If you're seeking a program that will challenge you intellectually, support your personal growth, and empower you to lead with purpose, the Notre Dame MBA is a compelling choice.
Program Structure and Curriculum – Notre Dame MBA
The Notre Dame MBA program is designed to be flexible, customizable, and career-focused, allowing students to build a business education that aligns with their personal values and professional goals. Whether you pursue the two-year MBA for a deep dive or the one-year MBA for a fast-track experience, the curriculum is thoughtfully structured to maximize learning, leadership development, and career outcomes.
Let’s break down the academic structure and what makes the Notre Dame MBA curriculum distinctive.
Core Structure at a Glance
Component | Two-Year MBA | One-Year MBA |
Program Duration | 21 months | 12 months |
Start Date | August | June |
Internship Component | Yes (Summer) | No |
Credits Required | ~64 | ~46 |
Core Business Courses | Year 1 | Summer Session |
Electives and Specializations | Year 2 | Fall & Spring |
Global/Experiential Learning | Optional | Optional |
Year 1 (Two-Year MBA)
Fall Semester: Students begin with foundational courses that provide a deep dive into core business disciplines.
Courses include:
Financial Accounting
Managerial Economics
Statistics for Managers
Strategic Decision Making
Marketing Management
Leadership & Organizational Behavior
Spring Semester: Students continue core coursework and start to explore electives or industry-focused topics.
Highlights:
Business Ethics and Responsibility
Operations Management
Financial Management
Global Business Immersion Prep
Leadership Communication
Summer Internship: A cornerstone of the two-year MBA, students complete a 10-12 week internship aligned with their career goals. Many internships lead to full-time job offers.
Year 2 (Customization and Electives)
The second year focuses on:
Specialization tracks or concentrations
Elective coursework
Capstone consulting projects
Global Immersion trips (e.g., South America, China, Africa)
Students can choose from a variety of career tracks:
Consulting
Finance
Entrepreneurship
Technology
Social Impact
Electives might include:
Mergers & Acquisitions
Digital Strategy
Negotiations
Business Analytics
Brand Strategy
One-Year MBA Curriculum
This program is ideal for professionals with prior undergraduate business education or strong quantitative backgrounds. The curriculum kicks off in June with core business courses and moves quickly into advanced electives and leadership development modules.
You’ll skip the internship and focus on building career momentum through:
Experiential learning
Career treks
Executive coaching
Specialized electives
Leadership Development and Experiential Learning
Notre Dame believes leaders are made through action, not just academics. That’s why the curriculum integrates real-world learning throughout.
Key opportunities include:
Interterm Intensives: Week-long business simulations and bootcamps
Experiential Learning Projects: Partner with companies like IBM, GE, or nonprofits to solve real challenges
Business on the Frontlines: Unique to Notre Dame, this program sends students to post-conflict countries to work on economic development strategies
Global Immersion: Engage with international markets through travel-based consulting engagements and cultural learning
Integrated Career Development
Career preparation is embedded into the curriculum through:
Career Leadership Courses
Executive Presence Coaching
Resume & Interview Labs
Industry Panels and Alumni Talks
This alignment ensures you graduate with both technical expertise and soft skills required for executive leadership roles.
Dual Degrees and Certificates
Notre Dame allows you to earn dual degrees or stack graduate-level certificates, expanding your career scope:
Popular options:
MBA/MS in Business Analytics
MBA/Juris Doctor (JD)
MBA/Master of Nonprofit Administration (MNA)
Certificates:
Leadership & Management
Supply Chain Excellence
Sustainable Business
Admission Requirements and Application Process – Notre Dame MBA
Applying to the Notre Dame MBA is a chance to join a purpose-driven, globally respected program at the Mendoza College of Business. Notre Dame’s admissions process is holistic, looking beyond test scores and résumés to understand who you are as a leader, thinker, and changemaker.
Whether you're a working professional, a career switcher, or an aspiring entrepreneur, this guide will walk you through the admission criteria and application steps to help you present your best self.
Key Admission Requirements
Here’s what you’ll need to be considered for admission to the Two-Year or One-Year Notre Dame MBA:
Requirement | Details |
Bachelor’s Degree | Required from an accredited institution (any major) |
GMAT or GRE Scores | Strongly recommended; waivers available for qualified candidates |
Work Experience | 2–5 years preferred (average is ~4.5 years) |
Résumé/CV | One page highlighting professional, academic, and leadership history |
Essays | Required – Focus on goals, leadership, and values alignment |
Letters of Recommendation | One professional reference (preferably from a supervisor) |
Interview | By invitation only |
English Proficiency | TOEFL/IELTS required for non-native English speakers |
Application Fee | $100 USD (fee waivers available upon request) |
Application Deadlines (2025 Cycle – Example)
Round | Application Deadline | Decision Notification |
Round 1 | September 17, 2024 | November 1, 2024 |
Round 2 | January 9, 2025 | March 13, 2025 |
Round 3 | March 19, 2025 | May 1, 2025 |
Note: These dates are illustrative. Always verify current deadlines on the official admissions page.
Essay Prompts (Sample)
The admissions essays are your opportunity to tell your story beyond your résumé and numbers.
Typical prompts may include:
What are your short-term and long-term career goals, and how will the Notre Dame MBA help you achieve them?
Describe a time you demonstrated leadership. What did you learn?
Notre Dame MBA seeks students who want to grow the good in business. What does this mission mean to you?
Tip: Be authentic. Connect your personal and professional values to Notre Dame’s culture and show how you’ll contribute.
GMAT/GRE Waivers
Notre Dame may offer GMAT or GRE waivers for highly qualified applicants who demonstrate academic rigor and quantitative readiness through:
A strong undergraduate GPA in business, STEM, or economics
Relevant professional certifications (e.g., CFA, CPA)
Quantitative coursework and/or experience
Applicants must request the waiver through the online application and may be asked to provide supplemental documentation.
Interview Process
Interviews are by invitation only and typically conducted by admissions staff or trained alumni. It’s a behavioral-style conversation focused on:
Your leadership experiences
Career goals and motivations
Fit with the Notre Dame MBA culture
Pro tip: Come prepared with examples that reflect ethical decision-making, collaboration, and impact.
How to Strengthen Your Application
To stand out in the competitive applicant pool:
Show clarity of career goals and how the Notre Dame MBA will get you there.
Demonstrate leadership potential—through work, volunteering, or extracurriculars.
Articulate alignment with Mendoza’s mission: growing the good in business.
Ensure your recommender knows your contributions and impact in detail.
Use essays to highlight your story, values, and future vision.
International Applicants
Notre Dame warmly welcomes students from around the world. In addition to the core requirements:
TOEFL (100+ iBT) or IELTS (7.5+) is generally required unless you have studied in an English-speaking country.
Additional visa and financial documentation will be needed after admission.
Career services also support international job searches and networking with global employers.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Attendance – Notre Dame MBA
Pursuing an MBA is a significant investment, both financially and personally. The Notre Dame MBA offers a compelling return on investment through high career placement rates, competitive salaries, and a mission-driven education that sets graduates apart in the job market. This section breaks down the tuition, living expenses, and total cost of attendance, helping you plan your finances with confidence.
Tuition and Program Fees
Item | Two-Year MBA (Per Year) | One-Year MBA (Total) |
Tuition | $64,050 | $91,200 |
Program Fee | $1,500 | $1,500 |
Health & Wellness Fee | $250 | $250 |
Total (Tuition + Fees) | $65,800 | $92,950 |
Tuition fees are for the 2024–2025 academic year and may increase slightly in subsequent years.
Estimated Living Expenses
Living in South Bend, Indiana is more affordable than many major U.S. cities, allowing students to focus on their studies and career goals without excessive financial pressure.
Expense Category | Two-Year MBA (Per Year) | One-Year MBA (Total) |
Housing and Utilities | $12,000 | $12,000 |
Food and Personal Expenses | $6,500 | $6,500 |
Books and Supplies | $2,000 | $1,500 |
Transportation | $1,200 | $1,200 |
Health Insurance | $3,100 | $3,100 |
Estimated Annual Total | $24,800 | $24,300 |
Total Estimated Cost of Attendance
Program Type | Tuition + Fees | Living Expenses | Total Cost |
Two-Year MBA | $131,600 | ~$49,600 | ~$181,200 |
One-Year MBA | $92,950 | ~$24,300 | ~$117,250 |
Tip: These numbers are estimates. Actual costs will depend on your personal lifestyle, housing choices, and other individual circumstances.
Additional Expenses to Consider
Study Abroad & Immersion Trips: Optional but highly recommended; can add $2,000–$5,000
Laptop & Technology: ~$1,500 if purchasing a new device
Professional Development & Conferences: ~$1,000 annually
Financing Your MBA
While the cost may seem daunting, Notre Dame offers multiple funding options to make the MBA accessible and affordable.
1. Scholarships (Merit-Based)
Awarded to top applicants during the admissions process
No separate application required
Awards range from partial to full tuition coverage
2. Fellowships and Assistantships
Limited graduate assistantships and leadership fellowships
Opportunities to earn a stipend or offset tuition
3. Loans
U.S. citizens and permanent residents may qualify for federal student loans
International students can access private loans with a co-signer
Notre Dame also partners with select lenders for educational financing
4. External Scholarships
You can apply for funding through:
Fulbright Scholarships (for international students)
Forté Foundation (for women in business)
Prodigy Finance, MPOWER Financing, and other lenders offering global MBA loans
Return on Investment (ROI)
The Notre Dame MBA consistently demonstrates strong ROI:
Average starting salary + signing bonus: $145,000+ (Class of 2023)
90%+ job placement within 3 months of graduation
Careers in high-growth sectors: Consulting, Tech, Healthcare, and Finance
Investing in the Notre Dame MBA isn’t just about a salary bump—it's about gaining a network, a purpose-driven education, and lifelong leadership skills.
Scholarships and Financial Aid Options – Notre Dame MBA
Financing an MBA can be one of the most critical factors in your decision-making process. At the Mendoza College of Business, the University of Notre Dame is deeply committed to making its MBA program accessible through generous scholarships, fellowships, and a range of financial aid options. Whether you’re a domestic or international applicant, there are multiple ways to reduce the financial burden while pursuing your dream degree.
Types of Scholarships Offered
Notre Dame MBA scholarships are merit-based and awarded to applicants who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, professional experience, leadership potential, and a strong fit with Notre Dame’s mission.
Scholarship Type | Description |
Mendoza Dean’s Scholarship | Awarded to top-tier applicants; can cover partial or full tuition |
Forté Fellowship | For outstanding female candidates; includes mentorship and networking |
Consortium Fellowship | For U.S. underrepresented minorities committed to diversity in business |
Military & Veteran Funding | Dedicated scholarships for military service members and veterans |
International Student Awards | Competitive scholarships for global applicants |
Ethical Leadership Awards | For students with strong backgrounds in social impact and ethics |
No separate scholarship application is required. Every applicant is automatically considered during the admissions review process.
Need-Based Financial Aid
In addition to merit scholarships, U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens may apply for federal financial aid through FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This includes:
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Graduate PLUS Loans
Income-based repayment and public service loan forgiveness (PSLF) for qualifying careers
Notre Dame’s Office of Financial Aid provides 1-on-1 counseling and support for creating your financial plan.
External Fellowships and Sponsorships
Many Notre Dame MBA students also explore external scholarships and grants through third-party organizations, including:
Program/Funder | Who It’s For |
Fulbright Program | International students seeking U.S. study |
Forté Foundation | Women pursuing careers in business |
Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA) | LGBTQ+ students |
National Black MBA Association | African American MBA candidates |
Hispanic Scholarship Fund | Hispanic and Latino MBA students |
Pro Tip: Start applying for these before you receive your admission decision. Some deadlines are early!
Veteran and Military Benefits
Notre Dame is proud to support active-duty military members and veterans through:
Yellow Ribbon Program (up to full tuition for eligible students)
Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits
Dedicated scholarships and military-friendly admissions process
Veterans are also supported through the Notre Dame Military Veterans Initiative, which offers transition support, career coaching, and a vibrant community on campus.
Loan Financing for International Students
International students are eligible for private education loans through lenders like:
Prodigy Finance (no U.S. co-signer required)
MPOWER Financing
Local bank partnerships based on home country
These lenders often work directly with Notre Dame and understand the specific needs of MBA students from around the globe.
How to Maximize Your Aid Package
Apply early – More funding is available in early rounds (R1 and R2).
Show your impact – Highlight leadership, community engagement, and ethical decision-making in essays.
Connect with alumni – Mentorship and guidance can provide access to lesser-known funding opportunities.
Be transparent about your needs – Notre Dame’s team is known for working closely with admitted students to explore funding options.
Quick Snapshot – Funding Opportunities
Source | Available to | Amount |
Dean’s Scholarship | All applicants | Partial to full tuition |
Forté Fellowship | Women | Up to full tuition + perks |
Consortium Fellowship | U.S. URM applicants | Full tuition + network |
GI Bill® & Yellow Ribbon | U.S. veterans | Up to 100% tuition |
Private Loans (e.g., Prodigy) | International students | Varies |
External Scholarships | All students | $1,000–$50,000+ |
Final Thoughts
Notre Dame understands that investing in an MBA is a life-changing decision. With competitive scholarships, generous military support, and global loan solutions, the school is deeply committed to making the program affordable and inclusive for all. The support doesn’t stop after you enroll—students have access to continued financial guidance throughout the program.
Career Opportunities and Employment Outcomes – Notre Dame MBA
One of the strongest benefits of earning your MBA from the Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame is the exceptional career support and outcomes it offers. The program is consistently ranked among the top U.S. MBA programs for job placement, career development, and alumni success.
Notre Dame takes a personalized, purpose-driven approach to career coaching—ensuring students don’t just land jobs, but thrive in roles aligned with their values, passions, and goals.
Career Development Office (CDO): Your Launch Partner
From the first week on campus, the Career Development Office partners with students to define a clear career strategy. The CDO offers:
1-on-1 career coaching and mock interviews
Personalized job search plans
Résumé and cover letter review
Industry-specific career treks
On-campus recruiting and networking events
Executive coaching sessions
CDO coaches are industry specialists, not generalists, giving you targeted advice whether you’re heading into consulting, tech, finance, healthcare, or something else.
Employment Outcomes (Class of 2023 Snapshot)
Metric | Results |
Job Placement (90 days post-grad) | 94% |
Average Base Salary | $127,600 |
Average Signing Bonus | $27,400 |
Top Hiring Industries | Consulting, Finance, Tech, Healthcare |
Most Popular Functions | Strategy, Product Management, Operations |
Top Employers of Notre Dame MBA Graduates
Notre Dame’s reputation, alumni network, and career resources attract some of the most prestigious recruiters in the world.
Notable Employers:
Consulting: McKinsey & Company, Deloitte, Bain & Company, BCG
Tech: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, IBM
Finance: J.P. Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Bank of America, Barclays
Healthcare & Pharma: Eli Lilly, Johnson & Johnson, Abbott, Medtronic
Consumer Goods & Retail: PepsiCo, Nike, Procter & Gamble, Whirlpool
Manufacturing & Industrial: GE, Honeywell, Cummins
Notre Dame’s personalized approach to recruiting helps students land at both Fortune 500s and innovative startups.
Career Paths by Industry
Industry | % of Graduates | Average Starting Salary |
Consulting | 35% | $150,000+ |
Technology | 20% | $130,000+ |
Financial Services | 18% | $125,000+ |
Healthcare | 10% | $120,000+ |
Manufacturing | 8% | $115,000+ |
Other (Nonprofit, Gov) | 9% | $105,000+ |
Global Career Reach
While many graduates land jobs in the U.S., Notre Dame has a strong global footprint thanks to its:
140,000+ alumni in 150+ countries
Employer partnerships on every continent
Global alumni career mentorship programs
International students are supported through career coaching tailored to U.S. job markets and access to STEM-designated tracks for extended OPT (Optional Practical Training).
Unique Career Development Programs
Interterm Intensives: Short-term, hands-on simulations with real employers
Business on the Frontlines: Fieldwork and consulting in emerging markets
Alumni Mentorship Circles: Career advice and connections from seasoned professionals
Career Treks: Industry deep dives in cities like Chicago, NYC, and San Francisco
Alumni Support for Life
Notre Dame MBA graduates benefit from lifetime career services, including:
Résumé refreshes years after graduation
Networking events worldwide
Career coaching at every stage of your journey
The Notre Dame network is especially known for its loyalty and approachability—alumni regularly go above and beyond to support fellow Domers.
Alumni Network and Global Connections
One of the greatest lifelong benefits of earning a Notre Dame MBA is becoming part of the powerful and passionate Notre Dame alumni network. With more than 144,000 alumni worldwide, including over 10,000 MBA and graduate business alumni, the reach and influence of this community are truly global. But it’s not just the size that sets it apart—it’s the strength of the connections, the willingness to help, and the shared values that bind graduates together no matter where life takes them.
The Notre Dame alumni network is often described not just as a network, but as a family. Whether you’re job searching, relocating to a new city, or looking for industry insights, you can count on fellow alumni to be responsive, supportive, and eager to help. Graduates frequently report that simply reaching out to another Domer—Notre Dame’s affectionate nickname for its alumni—opens doors to conversations, mentorships, and even career-changing opportunities. That culture of giving back is deeply embedded in the Notre Dame ethos.
Mendoza’s Career Development Office leverages this active alumni base by connecting current students with alumni mentors, many of whom are in leadership roles at Fortune 500 companies, startups, nonprofits, and global consultancies. These relationships can lead to internships, job offers, and invaluable insights into navigating industries and career transitions. Alumni often return to campus to recruit students, give guest lectures, and participate in networking events, further reinforcing the bridge between current students and the broader community.
The strength of the alumni network also plays a critical role in the global reach of the Notre Dame MBA. With alumni chapters in major cities around the world—from New York to San Francisco, from London to Hong Kong—graduates have access to regional events, mixers, career panels, and professional groups that help them stay connected and engaged, no matter where they go after graduation.
Students also gain international exposure during the MBA through global immersion programs, consulting projects, and study abroad opportunities. These experiences prepare students to lead in an interconnected business environment while also connecting them to Notre Dame’s growing international community. Whether it’s participating in a global business trek or working with an international nonprofit, the Notre Dame MBA offers rich opportunities to build cross-cultural competencies and form relationships that span continents.
Notre Dame’s mission—to develop leaders who use business as a force for good—also resonates deeply with employers and alumni alike. It creates a shared purpose and a sense of responsibility that unites graduates across industries and geographies. This common foundation of ethics, service, and leadership makes the alumni network not just active, but truly aligned.
Ultimately, the Notre Dame alumni network is not just something you tap into during your job search—it’s a lifelong community that continues to grow with you throughout your personal and professional journey. Whether you're mentoring a student, hiring a fellow alum, or collaborating across continents, the strength and loyalty of the Notre Dame network will always be one of your most valuable assets.
Campus Life and Student Experience
Life as a Notre Dame MBA student is about far more than academics—it's a fully immersive experience designed to nurture growth in every aspect of your life. From the moment you arrive on campus, you’re welcomed into a vibrant, supportive community that emphasizes collaboration, diversity, personal development, and school spirit. The Notre Dame MBA experience is one where students forge deep connections, challenge themselves intellectually, and participate in a wide variety of enriching activities both on and off campus.
At the heart of the Notre Dame experience is a close-knit student community. With a smaller cohort size compared to many other MBA programs, students quickly form strong bonds through shared experiences in the classroom, on project teams, and during social events. You’re not just a number at Notre Dame—you’re a valued member of a community that genuinely cares about your success and well-being. Professors know your name, classmates become close friends, and collaboration is encouraged over competition.
Notre Dame’s MBA students come from a variety of backgrounds, industries, and countries, making the environment diverse and inclusive. This diversity of thought enriches classroom discussions and provides students with new perspectives that broaden their understanding of global business challenges. Cultural celebrations, international student groups, and inclusive programming help everyone feel at home.
Student-led organizations are a huge part of life at Mendoza. With over 30 active MBA clubs, there's something for everyone—whether you're interested in finance, consulting, tech, entrepreneurship, sustainability, or diversity and inclusion. Professional clubs host speaker events, networking nights, treks to major cities, and case competitions. Social and service-oriented clubs foster camaraderie and allow students to give back to the community through volunteer work and outreach programs.
The campus itself is one of the most beautiful and iconic in the country. From the golden dome and the Basilica to serene lakes and tree-lined paths, the setting inspires reflection and focus. The Mendoza College of Business offers modern, well-equipped classrooms and collaborative spaces that encourage teamwork and creativity. Just steps away, you’ll find world-class athletic facilities, libraries, and cultural institutions.
Notre Dame’s legendary school spirit is also a major part of student life. Football weekends are more than just games—they're events that bring together students, alumni, and the wider Notre Dame family. Tailgating on game day, joining the student section at Notre Dame Stadium, and taking part in campus traditions like the "First Year Retreat" or the "Victory March" all add to the unforgettable MBA experience.
South Bend offers an affordable cost of living, charming local culture, and easy access to larger cities like Chicago and Indianapolis for networking and internships. Many MBA students choose to live near campus, enjoying a short commute and a tight sense of community.
In every sense, campus life at Notre Dame is designed to help you grow not just as a business leader, but as a well-rounded person. It’s a place where personal values are celebrated, where friendships last a lifetime, and where every day brings opportunities to learn, lead, and make a difference.
Why Choose the Notre Dame MBA?
Choosing the right MBA program is one of the most significant decisions in a professional’s career. The Notre Dame MBA, offered by the Mendoza College of Business, is designed for individuals who not only want to lead but want to lead with purpose. With its distinctive focus on values-based leadership, a collaborative culture, and a strong return on investment, the Notre Dame MBA stands apart from other top-tier programs.
One of the biggest differentiators of the Notre Dame MBA is its commitment to ethical leadership. Rooted in the university’s Catholic heritage, the program emphasizes integrity, responsibility, and service to others. This moral framework encourages students to think beyond profits and become leaders who make decisions that are socially and environmentally responsible.
The academics at Notre Dame combine rigorous coursework with practical application. The curriculum blends foundational business knowledge with the opportunity to explore real-world challenges through experiential learning, case studies, consulting projects, and global immersions. With concentrations in areas like finance, marketing, strategy, analytics, and innovation, students can tailor their studies to align with their goals. Whether you’re shifting careers, accelerating in your current industry, or launching a venture, Notre Dame provides the tools and flexibility to support your journey.
Another key advantage is the program’s small class size, which fosters deep relationships among students, faculty, and alumni. Instructors are not just experts in their fields—they are also committed mentors, often going above and beyond to support students. The tight-knit environment ensures that everyone is known by name, and collaboration is emphasized over competition. This sense of community helps students thrive both academically and personally.
Notre Dame also offers career outcomes that rival those of larger programs. With a dedicated career development team, students have access to personalized coaching, on-campus recruiting, industry treks, and job placement support. Notre Dame MBA graduates find roles at top firms in consulting, finance, tech, healthcare, and more, with many reporting significant salary increases after graduation.
Beyond the classroom, Notre Dame’s reputation and mission attract companies and recruiters who value not just intelligence, but integrity. Employers recognize that Notre Dame MBAs are well-rounded, principled, and driven to make a difference.
Lastly, the location in South Bend, Indiana, offers a peaceful and focused environment for study, with easy access to Chicago and other major cities. The cost of living is affordable, making the overall investment even more appealing when compared to programs in larger urban areas.
In essence, the Notre Dame MBA is for those who want more than just an education—they want a transformation. If you're looking to become a leader who creates value for your company and the world, Notre Dame provides the community, the education, and the mission-driven approach to get you there.
FAQS
1.What is the Notre Dame MBA program known for?
It’s known for values-based leadership, ethical business education, and a strong alumni network.
2.How long is the Notre Dame MBA program?
There are two options: a one-year MBA and a traditional two-year MBA.
3.Is work experience required to apply?
Yes, typically 2–5 years of professional experience is preferred.
4.What are the average GMAT and GPA scores for admitted students?
The average GMAT is around 670–700, and the average GPA is approximately 3.3–3.6.
5.Does Notre Dame accept the GRE instead of the GMAT?
Yes, both GMAT and GRE scores are accepted.
6.What concentrations or specializations are offered?
Areas include finance, marketing, business analytics, strategy, and consulting.
7.What is the cost of the Notre Dame MBA program?
Tuition for the full-time MBA is approximately $60,000 per year, plus living expenses.
8.Are scholarships available for MBA students?
Yes, merit-based scholarships and fellowships are available.
9.What is the career placement rate for graduates?
Over 90% of graduates secure jobs within three months of graduation.
10.Which companies recruit from Notre Dame?
Top recruiters include Deloitte, Amazon, EY, P&G, PwC, and more.
11.Is the program STEM-designated?
Yes, the MBA with certain concentrations qualifies as STEM-designated.
12.What global opportunities are available?
Students can participate in global consulting projects and international immersion trips.
13.Where is the program located?
It’s located in South Bend, Indiana, on the main campus of the University of Notre Dame.
14.What’s campus life like for MBA students?
It’s collaborative, community-focused, and enriched with tradition and student involvement.
15.How large is the MBA class size?
Around 120–150 students per incoming class.
16.Are part-time or online MBA options available?
Notre Dame offers an Executive MBA and a part-time MBA, but not a fully online MBA.
17.What support does the career center provide?
Services include career coaching, resume reviews, mock interviews, and employer connections.
18.Is international student support available?
Yes, including visa assistance, cultural orientation, and career resources.
19.What kind of leadership training is provided?
Leadership is embedded in the curriculum and supported through experiential learning and coaching.
20.How strong is the alumni network?
Extremely strong—Notre Dame has one of the most loyal and active alumni networks globally.
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