Overview of College of the Holy Cross
The College of the Holy Cross, often referred to as Holy Cross, is a private Jesuit liberal arts college located in Worcester, Massachusetts, USA. Founded in 1843, Holy Cross is known for its rigorous academic programs, commitment to social justice, and strong emphasis on a well-rounded education rooted in the Jesuit tradition. please note that there may have been changes or developments since then, and it’s advisable to check the latest information for the most accurate details.
History and Jesuit Tradition: Founded by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), the College of the Holy Cross has a rich history deeply rooted in the Jesuit educational tradition. The Jesuits are known for their commitment to academic excellence, intellectual rigor, and the formation of individuals who are not only well-educated but also guided by principles of social justice and service.
Academic Programs: Holy Cross is a liberal arts college, offering a broad range of undergraduate programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and business. The liberal arts education at Holy Cross emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and a well-rounded understanding of various disciplines. The College is known for its strong academic reputation and rigorous curriculum.
Jesuit Values: The Jesuit identity of Holy Cross is central to the college’s mission. Jesuit values, including a commitment to service, social justice, and the pursuit of knowledge for the greater glory of God, permeate the academic and campus life. Students are encouraged to engage with the principles of Ignatian spirituality, which includes reflection, discernment, and a dedication to “finding God in all things.”
Campus and Facilities: The Holy Cross campus is situated on a hill overlooking Worcester, providing a picturesque setting for learning and community life. The campus features a combination of modern and historic buildings, including academic facilities, residence halls, a chapel, and recreational spaces. The facilities are designed to support both academic and extracurricular activities.
Community Engagement and Service: Community service and engagement are integral components of the Holy Cross experience. Students are encouraged to participate in service-learning opportunities, volunteer work, and community outreach. The commitment to social justice aligns with the Jesuit tradition’s emphasis on being “men and women for and with others,” promoting a sense of responsibility to address societal challenges.
Global Perspectives: Holy Cross emphasizes global awareness and encourages students to think critically about global issues. The college often provides study abroad programs, international experiences, and opportunities for students to engage with diverse cultures. This global perspective aligns with the Jesuit tradition’s commitment to a broader, more inclusive understanding of the world.
Extracurricular Activities: Holy Cross offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including student clubs, organizations, and sports teams. Students have the opportunity to participate in cultural groups, service organizations, leadership development programs, and more. These activities contribute to the vibrant campus life and provide students with opportunities for personal growth beyond the classroom.
Pre-Professional Programs: While rooted in the liberal arts tradition, Holy Cross also offers pre-professional programs, including pre-medical, pre-law, and pre-business tracks. These programs provide students with the academic preparation and resources needed to pursue advanced degrees and careers in these fields.
Athletics: Holy Cross is a member of the Patriot League and competes in NCAA Division I athletics. The college has a strong athletic tradition, with a focus on the development of student-athletes both academically and athletically. The athletic programs contribute to school spirit and a sense of community on campus.
Alumni Network: Holy Cross has a strong and engaged alumni network. Graduates of the college often maintain a lifelong connection to their alma mater and contribute to the broader Holy Cross community. The alumni network provides resources, mentorship opportunities, and a sense of connection for current students and recent graduates.
The College of the Holy Cross is a distinguished institution with a rich history, strong academic reputation, and a commitment to Jesuit values. The emphasis on intellectual rigor, social justice, community service, and global perspectives contributes to a well-rounded educational experience for Holy Cross students. For the latest and most accurate information, it is recommended to visit the college’s official website or contact the admissions office directly.
1 College Street Worcester, MA 01610
Phone: (508) 793-2443
Email: admissions@holycross.edu
Web site: http://www.holycross.edu
Rankings: College of the Holy Cross
Located in Worcester, MA, College of the Holy Cross is one of the best universities in the state of Massachusetts. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for College of the Holy Cross in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is College of the Holy Cross.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Overall Ranking: | 36 |
| Score: | 72 |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 3.5 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 4 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 95.5% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 94.0% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | 89% |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | 5 |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 89 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 54.6% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 0.9% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 10:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 92.9% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 47 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 1180-1350 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 61% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 90% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 33.8% |
| Financial resources rank: | 49 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 8 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 52.5% |
Essential Facts: College of the Holy Cross
- Students at Holy Cross are mostly White with a smaller Hispanic population. The school has low racial diversity . 30% percent of students are minorities or people of color (BIPOC).
- In 2018-2019, the College administered over $60 million in need-based financial assistance to approximately 1,800 students.
- College of the Holy Cross is thought to be very diverse across all factors, and is ranked #286 nationwide.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 89% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | N/A |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | N/A |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 90% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | No |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | 40% |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | Yes |
| Additional policies and regulations: | honor code, hazing prohibited, other |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA I |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | basketball, ice hockey, soccer |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | basketball, field hockey, ice hockey, soccer |
| Student activities: | choral groups, dance, drama/theater, jazz band, literary magazine, marching band, music ensembles, musical theater, pep band, radio station, student government, student newspaper, yearbook |