The College of the Holy Cross is now offering its students accelerated master of music degrees as the Worcester school has partnered with the Boston-based New England Conservatory to launch a five-year expedited track.
The new program, introduced in fall 2025, affords Holy Cross students the opportunity to complete any liberal arts major while receiving instruction and mentorship at NEC. Once students have earned their undergraduate degree, they will matriculate to NEC for one additional year to finish their master’s degree, according to a Monday press release from Holy Cross.
In addition to reducing the time needed to complete a master of music degree, Holy Cross sees the program as significantly cutting costs for students as they’re able to transfer up to 12 credits to NEC.
“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,” Holy Cross Provost Elliott Visconsi said in the release. “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.”
Program participants will receive guidance from Holy Cross’ Music Department chair while receiving academic support and artistic mentorship from NEC deans, studio faculty, and department chairs.
“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 in the release.
Students may apply for the program as incoming first year students or as sophomores with recommendation from Holy Cross’ Department of Music.
NEC will conduct its own selection process.
“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,” Kalyn said in the release.
Holy Cross’ music program launch comes shortly after the college partnered with Tufts University in Medford to establish an accelerated bachelor’s and master’s degree program in nutrition.
Mica Kanner-Mascolo is a staff writer at Worcester Business Journal, who primarily covers the healthcare and diversity, equity, and inclusion industries.
