Illinois Tech vs Notre Dame

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic focuses of Illinois Tech and Notre Dame?

  Illinois Tech excels in STEM fields, particularly engineering, computer science, architecture, and the sciences. It's known for its hands-on, technology-focused education. Notre Dame, while strong in STEM, offers a broader range of programs with a strong emphasis on liberal arts, business, law, and theology. It's known for its well-rounded education and strong humanities programs.

• How do the campus cultures differ between Illinois Tech and Notre Dame?

  Illinois Tech has a more urban, career-focused campus culture. Students are often highly driven and focused on their professional development. Notre Dame has a more traditional, residential campus culture with a strong emphasis on community, tradition, and faith. There's a greater sense of school spirit and a more active social scene centered around campus life.

• What is the typical class size and student-faculty ratio at each university?

  Illinois Tech generally has smaller class sizes and a lower student-faculty ratio, allowing for more personalized attention from professors. Notre Dame's class sizes can vary, with some larger introductory courses, but it also maintains a relatively low student-faculty ratio, ensuring access to faculty.

• What are the research opportunities like at Illinois Tech and Notre Dame?

  Both universities offer significant research opportunities. Illinois Tech's research is heavily focused on technological innovation and applied sciences. Notre Dame has a broader research portfolio, encompassing areas like science, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. Both institutions provide funding and resources for undergraduate and graduate research.

• How do the locations of Illinois Tech and Notre Dame impact the student experience?

  Illinois Tech is located in Chicago, offering students access to a major metropolitan area with numerous internship, job, and cultural opportunities. Notre Dame is located in South Bend, Indiana, a smaller city that provides a more traditional college town experience. While South Bend offers a close-knit community, Chicago provides a wider range of experiences and career prospects.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at each university?

  Both Illinois Tech and Notre Dame have strong career services departments that offer career counseling, resume workshops, and internship placement assistance. Illinois Tech's alumni network is particularly strong in the tech industry, while Notre Dame's alumni network is known for its loyalty and widespread presence across various fields, including business, law, and government.

• How do the costs of attendance compare between Illinois Tech and Notre Dame?

  The cost of attendance can vary depending on financial aid and scholarships. Generally, Notre Dame's sticker price is higher than Illinois Tech's. However, both universities offer financial aid packages, and the net cost for individual students can differ significantly. It's important to compare the specific financial aid offers from each institution.

• What types of students typically thrive at Illinois Tech versus Notre Dame?

  Illinois Tech is a good fit for students who are passionate about STEM, enjoy a hands-on learning environment, and are driven to pursue careers in technology and innovation. Notre Dame is well-suited for students who seek a well-rounded education, value community and tradition, and are interested in a broader range of academic disciplines.

• What are the notable differences in campus housing and residential life?

  Illinois Tech offers a range of housing options, including traditional dorms and apartment-style living, catering to a more independent student body. Notre Dame has a strong residential hall system, where students are assigned to a hall for their entire undergraduate career, fostering a strong sense of community and tradition within each hall.

• How do the athletic programs compare between Illinois Tech and Notre Dame?

  Notre Dame is renowned for its Division I athletic programs, particularly football, and has a strong athletic tradition. Illinois Tech competes in Division III athletics, offering a more balanced approach to academics and athletics. If participating in high-level collegiate sports is a priority, Notre Dame is the clear choice.