Department of Psychology

Rivier’s psychology program offers built-in flexibility so that you can tailor your degree to your individual interests and goals. Our graduates work as case managers, behavioral technicians, program directors, mental health counselors, academic advisors, and more, in a variety of fields including education, healthcare, human resources, social services, government, business, and industry.

In preparing for a career or graduate school, students tudents complete a capstone course that includes career exploration, the development of a portfolio, and an applied project. Students have the choice to complete one or more internships and/or collaborate with faculty to conduct research in an area of interest. Our faculty members are published in peer-reviewed academic journals, and their research has been featured in national and regional newspapers, including USA Today, the Nashua Telegraph, and the Union Leader.

Students have presented at professional conferences, including the New England Psychological Association Conference, and graduates have continued to master’s and doctoral programs in psychology, social work, law, education, and business.

Hands-On Learning

Internships

Students build their resumes with valuable hands-on experiences. The department maintains close relationships with local agencies, allowing for a wide variety of internships and service-learning opportunities. Students who are interested in pursuing careers in psychology and social work are strongly encouraged to gain professional experience by taking advantage of these programs.

Many Rivier students volunteer or intern at local social service agencies, such as Boys & Girls Club, Girls Inc., the Nashua Youth Council, mental health centers, schools, and more.

Behavioral Science Lab

The Behavioral Science Laboratory offers opportunities for students to design and implement experiments and to analyze and interpret results, mentored by our credentialed faculty.

Lab resources include:

• Computer stations equipped with Empirisoft MediaLab and DirectRT software packages, which allow for millisecond precision in measuring cognition and perception from human participants
• Collaborative space for students and faculty to discuss research and current findings in the field

Psychology Club

The Psychology Club and other campus organizations offer students co-curricular opportunities to enhance their academic and professional preparation. Through community service, guest speakers, and career planning, the Club offers students a broad base of resources and networking opportunities related to psychology, human services, social work, sociology, education, and business.