Prior to its closure in 1989, Worcester Junior College offered associate degrees in the fields of liberal arts and sciences, and was accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
In 1938, the Institute received a charter to grant associate degrees by Charles F. Hurley, Governor of Massachusetts, and, in the same year, officially changed its name to Worcester Junior College.
In 1956, Worcester Junior College expanded its course offerings further by including classes in business and the liberal arts.
A year later, with a need for more classroom space, the school purchased the historic Dowley-Taylor House at 770 Main Street.
In the late 1980s, CNEC experienced major financial issues, largely caused by irregular fiscal administrative practices.