Overview
Notre Dame de Namur University was founded in 1851 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in California and the first Catholic college for women in the state. Originally named the College of Notre Dame, it later became coeducational and adopted its current name in 1998. The university built a reputation for small class sizes, personalized attention, and a mission rooted in Catholic social teaching and service, though it has faced serious financial and enrollment difficulties in recent years, including a 2022 announcement of a teach-out plan that was later reversed.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Belmont, California |
| Founded | 1851 |
| Total students | 700 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 10:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 78% |
| Graduation rate | 45% |
| Average starting salary | $48,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $38,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $38,000 |
| Room & board | $14,000 |
| Average financial aid | $20,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 900-1100 |
| ACT range | 17-22 |
| Average GPA | 3.10 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Psychology
- Business Administration
- Education
- Nursing
- Marital and Family Therapy
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.