Graduate Admissions

Admissions Requirements

International applicants should refer to International Admissions for additional requirements.

• Application for admission
• Official transcripts.
  • You must provide transcripts from each institution where you received degrees or course credit after high school/GED to ensure a complete academic record.
  • An official transcript showing the completion of your undergraduate degree and the date of degree conferral is required.
  • A transcript is considered “official” if it is sent directly to Rivier from the institution where the credit was earned. Official transcripts can be sent electronically using transcript sending services or by mail.
• Grade-point average. A minimum grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0 is expected for acceptance into our graduate programs.   
• Transcript evaluation. Transcripts from schools, colleges, and universities outside of the United States must be evaluated by an agency approved by the National Association of Credential Evaluators or the Association of International Credential Evaluators. Full course-by-course evaluations are required.
• Statement of Purpose. Most programs require a Statement of Purpose to be submitted with your application. This essay should be between one and two typed pages in length and should clearly outline your reasons for pursuing graduate study in your chosen field. We request that you cover these points:
  • What previous experiences and commitments have brought you to consider applying for graduate training?
  • How do you think Rivier University’s graduate program will help you in the pursuit of your objectives?
  • Why did you select your specific program of study?
  • What are your most important objectives in applying now?
  • A Statement of Purpose is not required for Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, and MBA applicants.
• Letter of recommendation. Most programs require one letter of recommendation, which must be submitted directly by the author. No specific form or format is required. Letters may be sent to admissions@rivier.edu for inclusion with your application.
• Test scores. Rivier University master’s degree programs do not require G.R.E., G.M.A.T., or M.A.T. results for entry.

Additional Requirements by Area of Study

Nursing (MSN)

• Two letters of recommendation, one of which must be from an RN in a leadership position.
  • The letter(s) of recommendation must be sent by the author/recommender directly. Letters do not require a specific form or format and can be submitted to admissions@rivier.edu to be included with your application.
  • Post-Master’s Certificate programs (Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology – Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Education) require only one letter of recommendation.
• A completed Course of Study Choice Form.
• A completed Practicum Form.
• Verification of active, unencumbered RN license(s).
• Resume or curriculum vitae.
• Evidence of successful completion of an undergraduate statistics course.
• Two years (full-time or equivalent) RN experience.
• A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA is required for admission to the program. Applicants whose GPA falls below this minimum will be evaluated and may be considered for admission.

A professional portfolio is required of RN-MS applicants who are seeking to enter the program as experienced registered nurses with associate degree preparation. The professional portfolio must document mastery of Bachelor of Science competencies. Please reach out to the Admissions Office (admissions@rivier.edu) for additional information regarding the professional portfolio requirement.

AG-ACNP MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate applicants must show proof of Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification.

Business

• Submit one letter of recommendation.
• A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA is required for admission to the program. Applicants whose GPA falls below this minimum will be evaluated and may be considered for admission.

Computer Information Systems

• Submit one professional letter of recommendation.
• A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA is required for admission to the program. Applicants whose GPA falls below this minimum will be evaluated and may be considered for admission.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling

• Submit one letter of recommendation.
• A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA is required for admission to the program. Applicants whose GPA falls below this minimum will be evaluated and may be considered for admission.

You can take up to four courses (12 credits) before you officially apply to a degree program. If you decide to enroll after any of the four courses, all the credits you earned will count toward your degree.

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