The College of the Holy Cross is a private Jesuit liberal arts college located in Worcester, Massachusetts. Established in 1843 by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), it is the oldest Catholic college in New England and one of the oldest Jesuit colleges in the United States. Holy Cross is known for its rigorous academic programs, strong commitment to liberal arts education, and focus on Jesuit values.
Here are some key points about the College of the Holy Cross:
1. Academic Programs: Holy Cross offers a variety of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, such as arts and humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and pre-professional studies. The college is divided into several academic departments, including:
- Art and Art History
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Classics
- Economics and Accounting
- Education
- English
- Environmental Studies
- History
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Modern Languages and Literatures
- Music
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Religious Studies
- Sociology and Anthropology
- Theatre and Dance
2. Rankings: The College of the Holy Cross is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. According to U.S. News & World Report's 2021 rankings, Holy Cross was ranked 40th among National Liberal Arts Colleges.
3. Enrollment: Holy Cross has a diverse student population, with approximately 3,100 undergraduate students from various states and countries.
4. Campus: The college's 174-acre campus is located on a hill overlooking Worcester, offering a picturesque setting for students. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, with impressive architecture and well-maintained grounds.
5. Athletics: Holy Cross is a member of the NCAA Division I and competes in the Patriot League. The college fields 27 varsity sports teams, known as the Crusaders.
6. Jesuit Tradition: As a Jesuit institution, Holy Cross emphasizes the integration of faith, intellectual inquiry, and social justice. The college encourages students to develop a strong moral compass and a commitment to service.
7. Student Life: Holy Cross offers a vibrant campus life, with over 100 student clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests, such as cultural groups, performing arts ensembles, service organizations, and academic honor societies.
8. Study Abroad: Holy Cross encourages students to participate in study abroad programs to enhance their global perspectives and cultural understanding. The college offers a variety of study abroad opportunities, including semester-long programs, short-term trips, and international internships.
9. Notable Alumni: Holy Cross has a strong alumni network, with graduates pursuing careers in various fields such as academia, business, government, and non-profit organizations. Some notable alumni include U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, journalist Bob Cousy, and author and Pulitzer Prize-winner Edward P. Jones.
10. Financial Aid: Holy Cross is committed to making its education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds, offering need-based financial aid packages that include grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. The college also provides several merit-based scholarships.
The College of the Holy Cross is known for its academic excellence, Jesuit values, and strong liberal arts tradition, providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in various fields.
