Performances + Events
New England Conservatory (NEC) and the College of the Holy Cross are proud to announce a new partnership creating an accelerated pathway for Holy Cross students to earn both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree from Holy Cross and a Master of Music (MM) degree from NEC in five years.
Accepting applications in Fall 2025, the program allows Holy Cross students to continue their music training at the highest level while pursuing any major in the liberal arts. Students who are admitted to the program will simultaneously complete their undergraduate requirements at Holy Cross and receive individualized instruction and mentorship at NEC. Following graduation from Holy Cross, students will matriculate fully into NEC to complete their master’s degree in one additional year.
NEC Dean and Chief Academic Officer Richard Giarusso, left, and Holy Cross Provost Elliott Visconsi.
“Holy Cross students can now pursue the full breadth of our liberal arts education with the depth of musical excellence that New England Conservatory offers—and with significant savings in time and tuition,” said Holy Cross Provost Elliott Visconsi. “Artistic practice is essential to a world-class education, and we look forward to experiencing the incredible artistry that this new generation of Holy Cross and NEC graduates will share with the world.”
Students interested in the joint program may apply as incoming first-years or be identified and recommended by the Holy Cross Department of Music by their sophomore year. Admission to NEC remains selective and follows its independent process, including annual performance juries to ensure artistic growth and readiness for graduate study.
The program allows students to pursue any major—including music—while preparing for the NEC qualifying exams in theory and history. Up to 12 credits earned at Holy Cross may transfer to NEC, creating significant cost and time savings for students pursuing the five-year BA/MM path.
“NEC is committed to preparing musicians who will shape the future and we are thrilled to announce this unique partnership with Holy Cross,” NEC President Andrea Kalyn said. “This program will create a powerful pathway to offer music training at the highest level for liberal arts students. By reducing barriers and increasing access to education, we are confident that students will be prepared with the skillset to pursue incredible opportunities in the dynamic world of music—from performance to composition and beyond.”
Students will also benefit from advising and mentorship at both institutions. At Holy Cross, the Music Department chair will guide students through their undergraduate studies, while at NEC, the deans, studio faculty, and department chairs will provide academic support and artistic mentorship throughout the master’s program.
Beyond advancing musical training, the partnership emphasizes service and community engagement. Holy Cross students will continue to enrich Worcester’s cultural life, serving as mentors and role models for young artists in the city, while also benefiting from NEC’s renowned faculty, resources, and performance opportunities in Boston.
