Rivier University announces three-year applied bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education

The 90-credit program is designed to prepare students for early entry into the workforce as elementary school teachers.

Built on Rivier’s tradition in teacher education, the new program offers a focused, three-year pathway for students seeking an immersive educational experience while pursuing New Hampshire site-based licensure. Rooted in Rivier’s existing four-year elementary education program, the Applied B.A. reflects the University’s longstanding commitment to teacher preparation, training, and practice.

Rivier’s three-year degree options respond to student demand for cost-effective pathways to employment while upholding the University’s academic standards. In addition to the three-year programs in Artificial Intelligence, Business Management, and Criminal Justice announced in fall 2025, the new Elementary Education degree is offered in response to ongoing teacher shortages and the closure of elementary teacher preparation programs throughout the state.

“Each year, New Hampshire averages 399 job openings for elementary school teachers,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President of Rivier University. “Our three-year applied bachelor’s degree program in Elementary Education addresses the growing need for well-prepared educators by providing students with a direct, immersive pathway into the classroom while supporting school districts in meeting workforce demands.”

A hallmark of the program is its innovative collaboration with the Nashua (N.H.) School District. Through this model, students will complete an embedded practicum each semester in a Nashua-area elementary school, gaining exposure to workplace culture, curriculum development, social and cultural issues, and child-centered teaching practices. Students will also benefit from mentorship by experienced educators and a student teaching experience in their final semester.

“This collaboration provides future teachers with the authentic experiences they need while contributing real value to our schools,” says Dr. Mario Andrade, Superintendent of the Nashua School District. “Rivier’s applied Elementary Education program will strengthen our educator pipeline and reflects a shared commitment to providing Nashua students with the highest quality learning environments.”

Graduates of the program will have the opportunity to seek employment in a New Hampshire school district with a Statement of Eligibility leading to acceptance into a district’s on-site licensure program. The program is intended for students planning to pursue that pathway in the Granite State. Students seeking to work outside New Hampshire are encouraged to consult the Department of Education in their intended state regarding eligibility requirements before enrolling.

Consistent with Rivier’s other three-year applied bachelor’s degree programs, the Applied B.A. in Elementary Education enables students to complete their degree over six traditional fall and spring semesters rather than through year-round accelerated study. The 90-credit format streamlines general education requirements and focuses on essential coursework in the major while preserving the core elements of a Rivier education. Students enrolled in the program will engage fully in campus life and have access to academic support services, intercollegiate athletics, student resources,  and career preparation opportunities.

Rivier will continue to offer its traditional four-year bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, and students enrolled in the three-year applied program may switch to the four-year bachelor’s degree program prior to graduation. In addition, the University offers a 3+1 pathway through which students may continue into the M.Ed. in Education Studies, earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just four years.

For more information about Rivier’s Applied B.A. in Elementary Education and the University’s three-year applied bachelor’s degree options, visit rivier.edu/degreein3.