Signature Programs

Notre Dame's Signature Programs bring evolving professional fields into our classrooms. Designed to be hands-on learning opportunities, these unique programs illustrate ND’s capacity to innovate, our focus on 21st century teaching strategies, and the expertise of our faculty in contemporary pedagogies for young men.

21st Century Learning at ND

eXperiential Learning
Program (NDXL)

boys standing on stage in theater

At Notre Dame, academic learning takes place beyond the walls of the typical classroom and extends out into the real world. Students broaden their horizons through NDXL, an experiential learning term that encourages students to partake in study tours, special interest courses, service learning, and immersion programs.
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Freshman Academy
Program

Boys sitting in a circle learning

The program emphasizes a positive transition to high school and the many opportunities to engage, learn and thrive at ND. Through partnerships with faculty, staff, Peer Counselors, and student leaders, students explore the ND experience with expert guidance and support.
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Leadership
Program

Student talking together

Students explore the essential skills of effective, authentic leadership through the Habitudes Curriculum, a leadership development sequence of courses.  Students take theory out of the classroom into practical application through leadership roles in various Notre Dame activities.  Leadership students are also actively engaged in service learning.
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IB Baccalaureate
Diploma Program

boys at computer

The highly respected International Baccalaureate (IBDP) program is uniquely aligned with our Catholic, Holy Cross mission to nurture personal growth and foster integrity in young men of diverse talents, backgrounds and beliefs. IB “aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.” ND will be just one of nine schools in the State of Connecticut that offer the IB program, and the only all-boys school. 
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Moreau Honors
Program

Boys on computers

Named for Blessed Basil Moreau, founder of the Brothers of Holy Cross, the Moreau Honors Program emphasizes rigorous reading competencies while developing 21st-century skills including creative problem solving, collaboration, and digital literacy. Based on their prior academic achievements, incoming freshmen are placed into the program prior to their first fall semester at Notre Dame. 
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Peer Counseling
Program

Boys walking in hallway

Through the Peer Counseling Program, selected seniors demonstrate leadership through service. These students take on a mentor role to the freshman class and act as role models to the whole student body. In both classroom discovery and interactions with other students, the Program seeks to form “servant-leaders”, deepening the bonds among us. 
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Sports Medicine
Program

Faculty wrapping students arm

ND’s new Signature Program in Sports Medicine allows students to explore potential careers in Sports Medicine and Athletic Training. ND graduates will have an edge in applications to competitive college programs.  
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Technology/Engineering/
Design Program (T/E/D)

Boy working with laser

Designed by Fortune 500 Engineers alongside ND faculty,  the
Technology/Engineering/Design (T/E/D) Program is a three year program that
cultivates the analytical, creative, and process skills required in the engineering profession.  Students develops problem-solving abilities through practical learning applications. 
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Video Production
Program

Boys broadcasting

Students will gain both classroom and ‘real world’ experience while learning the essential elements of video production. Students will develop strong skills in camera operation, audio mixing, graphics system operation, sound, editing, and overall viewing analysis. Production planning and video editing theory put creative control directly in students’ hands.
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“Grown from Educating Minds & Hearts 2020, ND’s strategic plan, our new signature programs give students the opportunity to explore contemporary and growing disciplines - before they get to college.”  Ruben VaLencia, Vice President for Academic Success