Welcome to the College of Liberal Arts, Education, and Sciences.  I have been at Rider since 1971 as a faculty member, department chair, associate dean, and, since 1997, dean.  My own training is in the sciences, specifically in environmental geochemistry.  I hold degrees from the University of Illinois, the University of Tennessee, and Washington State University.  I have also worked in industry.

Our College boasts an impressive array of majors and minors from which to choose.  As a result, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue interests in diverse areas, become educated and competitive in the job market, as well as develop other interests that will enrich your life.

In addition to the extensive offerings we provide in the classroom, we also understand that learning beyond the classroom is an essential component of your preparation for the future.  You’ll be able to participate in internships, service learning, research opportunities, development of a co-curricular transcript that catalogues non-course related activities, and in University leadership initiatives.

Honors programs range from the University-wide Baccalaureate Honors Program that students may be invited to join as incoming freshmen to departmental honors in nearly all departments in our College.

Those who are “undecided” on a major, or as we call them, University Studies Students, have access to our Learning Community Program.  Faculty that teach in the program coordinate coursework between paired English Composition and History courses.  University Studies Students also live together in the residence halls, and receive coordinated support and activities.  

Our faculty is devoted to high quality instruction in a caring environment and use a wide variety of methods ranging from traditional lectures, to technologically supported instruction, to inquiry based instructional models.  We particularly emphasize connected learning as we bridge the traditional disciplines with innovative and creative majors and minors. Our faculty is interested in encouraging and supporting intellectual development and the enhancement of wisdom, character, and leadership among our students.

As you continue to explore this Web site, I encourage you to look closely at the options and opportunities offered by the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the School of Education that make up our College. Your potential is unlimited.  We look forward to helping you prepare for your future with confidence by providing you with a depth of knowledge and a wide breadth of exposure to many disciplines.

Sincerely,

Dean Joseph Nadeau