University Status FAQ
Here you will find answers to some of the most frequent questions about our historic move to University Status.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why the name “Notre Dame of Maryland University?”
- Will university status affect the institution's reputation among prospective undergraduates as a small, student-focused liberal arts college?
- Will moving to "university status" affect the size of the campus and its programs?
- Will there be any significant changes to campus operations anticipated?
- What effect has the new university name had on Notre Dame’s logo?
- What changes have been made to diplomas?
- I am a graduate of College of Notre Dame of Maryland. Which name should I put on my résumé?
Why the name “Notre Dame of Maryland University?” Back to Top
In the summer of 2010, Notre Dame conducted a series of surveys concerning naming options with graduates, students, faculty and supporters. The University also enlisted SimpsonScarborough, a higher education market research firm, to test the viability of several options. Overwhelmingly, respondents expressed the desire to retain our historic identity, “Notre Dame of Maryland.”
Will university status affect the institution's reputation among prospective undergraduates as a small, student-focused liberal arts college? Back to Top
No. In all communications with prospective students, parents and guidance counselors, we carefully explain what it means to be a small university with an emphasis on liberal arts. Our recruitment messages focus on the benefits of a school where students gain the best of both worlds – a university quality education with the personal attention and flavor of a liberal arts college.
Will moving to "university status" affect the size of the campus and its programs? Back to Top
While modest enrollment growth is already a part of our strategic plan, there are no plans to significantly increase the student population or the physical footprint of the campus. Rather, we have the opportunity to showcase Notre Dame’s most valued-attributes—a close community, small classes and personal attention—which are often not found in a university setting.
Will there be any significant changes to campus operations anticipated? Back to Top
No. University status reflects our organizational structure. We offer bachelor’s through the doctoral-level degrees at our historic campus in Baltimore and at satellite locations throughout Maryland. Our change in status simply aligns our public identity with our current structure and breadth of academic programs.
What effect has the new university name had on Notre Dame’s logo? Back to Top
Our new name required the development of a new logo and graphic identity system for use on publications, our website, advertising and other forms of communication. We worked closely with a branding and communications firm to develop the graphic identity and key messages that convey our new status as a university. The process included meetings, discussion and training with various campus groups to ensure we present an accurate and unified image of the institution.
What changes have been made to diplomas? Back to Top
The Class of 2011 was the last cohort of graduates from College of Notre Dame of Maryland and received a commemorative diploma. All graduates of College of Notre Dame of Maryland will be offered the option to obtain diplomas with the new university name.
I am a graduate of College of Notre Dame of Maryland. Which name should I put on my résumé? Back to Top
Protocol allows graduates to use either the institution's former name (at the time of graduation) or the institution's current name on a résumé.