Graduate Admissions

Getting Started

We accept graduate candidates on a rolling basis and semesters begin in the fall, spring, and summer. Please ensure that there is enough time for our Admissions team to review your application before your start term begins. Normal processing time is two to four weeks from when your application material is completed.

Want to try out a program before you fully commit to enrolling? You can take up to four courses (12 credits) before you officially apply to a degree program. If you decide to enroll after, all the credits count toward your degree. You can view a full list of courses here.

Admissions Requirements

International applicants: Please see International Admissions for additional requirements.

• Application for admission
• Official transcript(s) from Undergraduate study. All applicants must submit transcripts indicating completion of your degree and the date conferred.  A minimum GPA of 3.0 is expected for acceptance into our graduate programs.
• Post-secondary academic transcripts. All applicants must submit official copies of all other post-secondary transcripts.
• Transcript evaluation. For any school you attended that is outside of the United States, you must obtain and submit a transcript evaluation. Those academic transcripts must be evaluated by an agency approved by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers. A list of agencies and their contacts may be found on the International Admissions page.
• Statement of Purpose. Submit an essay of at least one typed page, but no longer than two pages, with your application. Please give your reasons for deciding to do graduate work in the field you have chosen. We request that you cover these points:
  • What previous experiences and commitments have brought you to consider applying for graduate training?
  • What are your chief objectives in applying now?
  • How do you think Rivier University’s graduate program will help you in the pursuit of your objectives?
• Letter of recommendation. Most programs require one letter of recommendation. See the ‘Additional Requirements by Area of Study’ section below for the area of study you are interested in.
• Test scores. Rivier University Master’s degree level programs do not require G.R.E., G.M.A.T. or M.A.T. results for entry.

Additional Requirements by Area of Study

Business

• One letter of recommendation
• An interview with the department chairperson or program director is recommended

Computer Science

• One letter of recommendation
• An interview with the department chairperson or program director is recommended

English

• An interview in-person or over the telephone with the department chairperson or program director. M.A.. and M.A.T. candidates must interview in person before official acceptance into the program.
• One letter of recommendation
• Writing sample (submit one piece or several short pieces)

Education

• One letter of recommendation
• An interview with the department chairperson or program director is recommended
• Writing sample (Social Studies M.A.T.; English M.A.T. only)

Nursing

• Two letters of recommendation, one of which must be from an RN in a leadership position
• A completed Course of Study Choice Form
• A completed Practicum Form
• Verification of active, unencumbered RN license(s)
• Resume
• Evidence of successful completion of an undergraduate statistics course
• A professional portfolio is required of RN-MS applicants

Rivier University does not discriminate in its application process. Read our non-discrimination policy.