NEC/Tufts Double Degree
Students who wish to combine degree studies in music and liberal arts may apply to the NEC/Tufts University five-year double degree program, which awards the Bachelor of Music degree from NEC and the Bachelor of Arts (or Science) degree from Tufts University. Tufts offers double-degree students the opportunity to major in any area except music and engineering.
Such students must earn a minimum of 82 credits at NEC and 24 credits (including foundation, distribution, and concentration requirements) at Tufts. In designing their program schedules, students consult with academic advisors at both institutions. They must complete all requirements at both institutions to qualify for either degree, and the degrees must be awarded simultaneously.
Students transferring from other institutions are not accepted into this program. Students wishing to end participation in the program may complete studies at either institution.
The New England Conservatory and Tufts University Double Degree Program is a unique opportunity to be part of two amazingly dynamic, creative, supportive, and unique communities. This is an ultra-interdisciplinary experience, and an extremely rewarding one! Currently a second-year student in the program, I’ve been stretched and challenged in so many different ways. As a jazz performance major at NEC, I’ve gotten to study with some of the best improvisers in the world and play with many of my inspiring peers. At Tufts, I’ve gotten to explore subjects ranging from Philosophy to Economics to International Relations and beyond; I feel as though there is so much to choose from that I’ll hardly be able to take a fraction of the courses in which I’m interested during my five years! I’ve also gotten to know some wonderful thinkers and people at both schools, among both the students and the faculty. Needless to say, this program is very challenging. What’s more, scheduling and commuting between two schools can be difficult at times. On the other hand, Tufts/NEC students register before all other undergraduates at both schools, which allows for maximum choice in terms of class selection. In addition, I’ve been able to block out my schedule such that most days I have all my classes at one school or the other; that is, for example, on Mondays and Wednesdays I have classes only at NEC, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays I have classes only at Tufts. It’s not always possible, however, to block out one’s schedule so conveniently. But despite certain hurdles, I’ve been able to make this program work for me. If you’re passionate about pursuing you musical and academic studies at a high level, you could too! -– Jason Yeager, 2nd-year Tufts/NEC student |
Download NEC/Tufts Dual Degree program outline
