College of the Holy Cross Rankings & Achievements

The College of the Holy Cross, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, stands as one of the most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the United States, with a long history of academic excellence and a rich tradition rooted in its Roman Catholic and Jesuit heritage. Founded in 1843, it is the oldest Catholic college in New England and one of the oldest in the nation. This historic institution combines a rigorous academic curriculum with a deep commitment to the values of the Jesuit tradition, emphasizing a holistic education that encourages intellectual growth, ethical development, and service to others.

Holy Cross is a member of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU), an organization that unites the 28 Jesuit institutions of higher learning in the United States. The College is also part of the Colleges of Worcester Consortium (COWC), a group of colleges and universities in the Worcester area that collaborate to enhance educational opportunities for their students. As a Jesuit institution, Holy Cross places significant emphasis on the development of the whole person, aiming to foster students' intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth. The college’s mission aligns with the core Jesuit principles of cura personalis, or care for the whole person, and the pursuit of justice through education.

In terms of academic rigor, Holy Cross has consistently been recognized for its demanding curriculum and competitive admissions process. It is regularly included in Barron's Guide to U.S. Colleges and Universities as one of the "50 most academically demanding colleges across America." This ranking highlights Holy Cross as a selective institution where students are expected to meet high standards of intellectual engagement and achievement. Its reputation for academic excellence is reflected in its placement in various national rankings.

The College of the Holy Cross ranks 36th among Tier 1 Liberal Arts Colleges in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2010 rankings, underscoring its position as one of the top institutions in its category. Its consistent presence in the rankings speaks to the strength of its academic programs, faculty, and student outcomes. The 2010 ranking placed Holy Cross among other highly selective liberal arts colleges, and it is a testament to the College’s commitment to providing a rigorous education that prepares students for success in both their professional careers and personal lives.

Holy Cross also shines in its financial outcomes for graduates. PayScale’s 2009 rankings placed Holy Cross 11th among the top liberal arts colleges and universities for starting median salaries, reflecting the strong job prospects for its alumni. This ranking indicates that a degree from Holy Cross offers not only a high-quality education but also a solid return on investment, with graduates earning competitive salaries right out of college. In addition, the College was ranked 6th among liberal arts colleges for earning potential, with graduates reporting a starting median salary of $50,200 and a mid-career median salary of $106,000. These figures highlight the long-term value of a Holy Cross education and its ability to prepare students for successful careers.

The college’s commitment to ensuring that students receive a valuable education is also reflected in its high retention and graduation rates. In the U.S. News & World Report’s 2008 edition, Holy Cross was ranked 33rd among liberal arts colleges in the United States. Notably, the College was recognized for having one of the highest combined graduation and retention rates among liberal arts schools, ranking 4th in this category, tied with other esteemed institutions like Wellesley College, Middlebury College, and Bowdoin College. This high ranking signifies that Holy Cross not only attracts talented students but also supports them in their academic journey, ensuring they are equipped to complete their degrees successfully.

The college’s strong reputation for academic excellence and student success is also evidenced by its placement in the 2009 edition of The Best 361 Colleges by Princeton Review, which awarded Holy Cross an impressive 98/99 academic rating. This rating is a reflection of the College’s overall commitment to providing a challenging and supportive academic environment, where students are encouraged to push their intellectual boundaries and engage deeply with their studies. Holy Cross offers a broad range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics, all designed to prepare students for leadership roles in their respective fields.

In addition to its academic achievements, Holy Cross is also recognized for its long-term value. SmartMoney ranked the College 4th among the nation’s liberal arts colleges and universities for long-term value. This ranking considers factors such as the quality of the academic programs, student outcomes, and the long-term financial return on a Holy Cross education. The College’s commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience, combined with its strong alumni network and the success of its graduates, makes it one of the best values in American higher education.

The Holy Cross campus itself is a beautiful setting for this rigorous intellectual journey. The College’s historic campus, which sits atop a hill overlooking Worcester, is known for its Gothic architecture, lush green spaces, and a serene environment that fosters academic reflection and community engagement. The College offers a tight-knit community where students are encouraged to build meaningful relationships with their professors and peers. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, Holy Cross offers small classes that facilitate close interactions between students and faculty, enabling personalized attention and mentoring that is central to the Jesuit educational experience.

Holy Cross also fosters a vibrant extracurricular life, where students can participate in a wide range of clubs, organizations, and athletic teams. The College’s Division I athletics program is an important aspect of campus life, and Holy Cross is known for its strong traditions in sports such as basketball and football. The College’s commitment to athletics, arts, and community service reflects its holistic approach to education, where students are encouraged to develop their talents and contribute to the broader community.

Moreover, Holy Cross offers students numerous opportunities for community engagement and social justice work. The College’s Jesuit identity emphasizes the importance of service to others, and students are actively encouraged to participate in volunteer and service programs that address pressing social issues. Holy Cross students are prepared not only to succeed in their professional lives but also to contribute meaningfully to society as engaged citizens committed to justice and equity.

In conclusion, the College of the Holy Cross stands out as one of the nation’s premier liberal arts institutions, with a distinguished history, a commitment to academic excellence, and a dedication to preparing students for both professional success and meaningful contributions to society. The College’s Jesuit values, rigorous academic programs, and strong outcomes for its graduates place it among the most selective and respected institutions in the United States. With its impressive rankings in academic rigor, financial outcomes, and long-term value, Holy Cross continues to attract high-achieving students who are looking for a challenging and enriching educational experience. Through its holistic approach to education, it prepares students not only for success in their careers but also for lives of service, leadership, and social responsibility.