Rider University
Address: Rider University, 2083 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648, USA
Phone: +1 609-896-5000
Email: admission@rider.edu
Website: www.rider.edu
About Rider University
Established in 1865, the Rider University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the medium town of Lawrenceville (population range of 2,500-9,999 inhabitants), New Jersey. This institution also has a branch campus in Princeton. Officially accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Rider University is a small-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 4,000-4,999 students) coeducational US higher education institution. Rider University offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 159-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. Rider University also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Why Rider University
Rider University is known for several distinguishing qualities that make it popular among students and well-regarded in specific academic and professional communities. Here are some of the reasons Rider University is famous:
1. Westminster Choir College
- Westminster Choir College, now integrated with Rider University, has an internationally recognized reputation in music and choral arts. Known for its rigorous music programs, especially in choral conducting, voice performance, music education, and sacred music, Westminster Choir College has a long tradition of producing skilled musicians and conductors. Alumni from Westminster often perform on global stages, including collaborations with prestigious orchestras and music festivals.
2. Strong Business Programs
- The Norm Brodsky College of Business is another significant draw for Rider, known for its entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing programs. Rider’s business school is committed to hands-on learning, with strong industry connections that allow students to gain real-world experience through internships, co-op programs, and partnerships with companies in the New York and Philadelphia areas. The business college also hosts the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies and the Small Business Institute, providing unique opportunities for students to work with local startups and businesses.
3. Focus on Experiential Learning and Internships
- Rider emphasizes experiential learning across all of its programs, ensuring students graduate with practical skills and work experience. From its internships in business and communications to performance opportunities in music and theatre, Rider students often have opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in professional settings. This focus on real-world learning, combined with the university’s location near New York City and Philadelphia, enhances students’ career prospects.
4. Personalized Education and Small Class Sizes
- Rider is well-known for its small class sizes and personalized approach to education, which allows students to build strong relationships with faculty and receive individualized support. This setting is appealing for students who thrive in close-knit learning environments.
5. Strong Theatre and Arts Programs
- Rider has developed a respected reputation for its theatre and musical theatre programs, particularly popular for students interested in performing arts and access to New York City’s arts scene. With opportunities for performance and hands-on training, Rider’s theatre and arts programs attract students looking to break into the entertainment industry.
6. Notable Alumni Network
- Rider’s alumni network includes notable figures across various industries, including Tony Award winners from its arts programs, CEOs and entrepreneurs from its business school, and politicians and educators from its education and liberal arts programs. This network often provides valuable mentorship and networking opportunities for current students.
7. Commitment to Community and Diversity
- Rider University is committed to community service and diversity initiatives. Programs like the Bonner Scholars Program offer scholarships in exchange for service commitments, emphasizing the university’s dedication to social impact. Rider also emphasizes inclusivity and has active programs supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion across its campus.
At Rider University, language requirements for international students primarily focus on English proficiency. Non-native English speakers are generally required to submit standardized test scores to demonstrate their English language abilities. Here’s an overview of the main requirements:
1. Undergraduate English Language Requirements
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 79 on the internet-based test (iBT) is typically required.
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum score of 6.0 overall is generally required.
- Duolingo English Test: Rider University accepts a minimum score of around 100, which provides an alternative to TOEFL and IELTS.
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53 is usually required.
2. Graduate English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBT: Graduate programs typically require a minimum score of 79-100, depending on the specific program.
- IELTS: Most graduate programs require a minimum score of 6.5 overall, though certain programs may have higher requirements.
- Duolingo English Test: A minimum score of 105 may be accepted for graduate students.
- PTE Academic: A minimum score of 58 is generally required for graduate applicants.
3. Conditional Admission and Language Support
- Rider University offers conditional admission to international students who meet academic requirements but need additional English language support. Such students may be required to enroll in English as a Second Language (ESL) courses through the English Language Institute (ELI) at Rider.
- English Language Institute (ELI): This program provides intensive English language instruction and prepares students for academic success, with a curriculum focusing on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
4. Exemptions
- Students from countries where English is the official language or who have completed education in an English-speaking country may be exempt from these requirements.
- Some exemptions also apply for students who have completed a degree from an institution where English was the primary language of instruction.
Rider University, located in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, is known for its strong programs across a variety of disciplines, with particular specialties in business, music and performing arts, education, and psychology. Below are some of Rider's notable course specialties:
1. Business
- The Norm Brodsky College of Business at Rider is highly regarded, offering programs in accounting, finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, business analytics, and global supply chain management.
- Rider’s business programs emphasize real-world applications, internships, and networking, with opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience through the Small Business Institute and other experiential learning initiatives.
- The Executive MBA and Business Analytics programs are especially popular among graduate students.
2. Music and Performing Arts
- Rider's Westminster College of the Arts includes the Westminster Choir College, which is known for its elite music programs, particularly in choral conducting, voice, music education, and sacred music.
- Performance-focused majors such as musical theatre, dance, and theatre are also well-regarded, with connections to performance opportunities in the nearby New York City area.
- Students benefit from rigorous training, with access to specialized faculty, conservatory-style education, and performance venues.
3. Education
- Rider’s School of Education offers programs in elementary education, secondary education, and special education. The university’s teaching programs include robust fieldwork opportunities and partnerships with local schools, providing students with hands-on teaching experience.
- The Applied Psychology program with a focus on School Psychology is also popular, preparing students for careers in counseling, psychology, and educational support services.
4. Psychology and Counseling
- Rider’s Psychology program offers concentrations in clinical psychology, counseling, and behavioral neuroscience. Students have access to research facilities and participate in hands-on projects and internships.
- The Counseling Services program is particularly strong, with graduate programs in clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, and substance abuse counseling that meet state licensure requirements.
5. Health Sciences and Nursing
- Rider has recently expanded into health sciences, offering programs in health sciences and nursing in partnership with other institutions.
- The health sciences program provides a foundation in areas such as public health, biomedical sciences, and exercise science.
6. Communication and Media Studies
- Rider offers specialized programs in journalism, public relations, digital media, and sports media. These programs emphasize practical training in media production, broadcasting, and communication strategy.
7. Environmental and Biological Sciences
- Rider's programs in biology and environmental science are known for providing students with research opportunities and hands-on experience. The Marine Sciences program, located near coastal ecosystems, is especially popular, offering field-based learning and research on marine biology and ecology.
8. Political Science and International Relations
- Rider’s Political Science and Global Studies programs emphasize experiential learning and offer internships with local government agencies, political campaigns, and nonprofit organizations.
Rider University has a number of esteemed professors known for their contributions to their fields and their dedication to student success. Here are some of the notable professors who have made a significant impact:
1. Dr. Arthur Taylor - Finance
- Dr. Taylor is well-regarded in the Norm Brodsky College of Business and has extensive expertise in finance and investment. Known for his practical approach to teaching, he has received numerous teaching awards and contributes to Rider’s strong finance program by mentoring students and connecting them with industry opportunities.
2. Dr. Cynthia Newman - Marketing and Business
- A leader in business education, Dr. Newman has served as both a professor and administrator at Rider, contributing to the growth and innovation of the university’s business programs. Her research and teaching emphasize strategic marketing and consumer behavior, and she has been instrumental in creating internship and hands-on learning opportunities for business students.
3. Dr. Theresa Haug-Belvin - Educational Leadership
- Dr. Haug-Belvin, a respected figure in Rider’s School of Education, specializes in educational leadership and administration. She is known for her research on educational equity and policy, and her work supports the development of future educators and administrators in K-12 education systems.
4. Dr. Jamie Mitchell - Psychology
- An associate professor in the Department of Psychology, Dr. Mitchell is recognized for her research on social psychology and human behavior. She is known for being highly accessible to students and has a reputation for being an engaging lecturer, making complex psychological concepts approachable and applicable.
5. Dr. Amanda Quist - Westminster Choir College, Choral Conducting
- Dr. Quist is one of the standout professors in the Westminster Choir College at Rider, where she teaches choral conducting and voice. A prominent figure in choral music, Dr. Quist has led many choral groups in national and international performances, and her expertise has contributed significantly to Westminster’s reputation.
6. Dr. Frank Rusciano - Political Science and Global Studies
- Dr. Rusciano is a senior professor in political science, with a focus on international relations and global studies. His research on world opinion and global issues is well-respected, and he has mentored countless students interested in political science careers.
Rider University has not had any faculty members or alumni who have been awarded the Nobel Prize. The university is more widely recognized for its strengths in fields like business, performing arts (particularly music through its Westminster Choir College), education, and communications, rather than research areas that typically produce Nobel laureates, such as medicine, physics, or economics.
Although Rider University does not have direct ties to Nobel Prizes, it is known for cultivating talented graduates and faculty who have achieved recognition in their respective fields, including national awards in education, music, and business.