Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer courses that will accommodate my busy schedule?
Yes! Continuing Education students have the option to take courses online or in-person during the day, evening or on the weekend depending on the academic program. We also offer accelerated courses and full or part-time study options to accommodate your schedule.
How long will it take to complete my degree?
There are three factors to consider on how long it will take to complete your degree:
- The total number of credits required to complete the degree you decide to pursue [60 for an Associate in Arts; 120 for a Bachelor’s.]
- The number of credits you are transferring or starting with.
- The number of credits you are planning to take during a calendar year. Typically, a student will take 12 to 24 credits during a calendar year including the summer.
If you divide the number of credits you have remaining by the number of credits you are planning to take during an academic year, you will have a good estimate on how long it will take you to complete your degree.
Will you evaluate transfer credits without obligation?
Yes! Once you have contacted the Office of Admission, we will evaluate your transfer credits and complete an unofficial evaluation with no obligation to enroll. If you have attended a New Jersey community college, you may use NJtransfer.org to determine transferability of credits.
Do I need prior college credits to enroll?
Many of our students enroll without previous college credits. You will be requested to enroll as a non-matriculated student prior to applying for admission as a degree candidate. This will allow you to transition into taking college-level courses. Contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@rider.edu for more information.
I was not a strong student in my previous college experience, but I am ready to start. Should I enroll?
The Office of Admission evaluates students with previous college experience on a case-by-case basis. When meeting with an Admissions advisor, you may want to address the factors that contributed to your weak academic performance and what actions you are ready to take to improve or overcome those factors.
How can I finance my education?
There are a variety of options to help you finance your education:
- Apply for Federal Financial Aid (you must be matriculated and registered for 6 -11 credits per semester to qualify.) Most part-time students receive aid through loans. The loans may cover part of summer tuition.
- Consult with your employer about any company tuition remission plans.
- Take advantage of Rider University’s convenient tuition deferment plan [available fall and spring.] The plan allows you to pay in three installments throughout the semester.
- If you are a veteran of the Armed Forces, contact the Veterans Administration. You may qualify for some tuition assistance.
- Consult with an accountant about your eligibility for available tax credits or deductions.
For more information on financial aid and scholarships, Financial Aid & Scholarships.
I do not wish to take a course for credit. May I register?
If you are not interested in college credit, you may audit a course provided there is space in the class. There is a reduced tuition rate for auditing a course. To apply as an Audit/Non-Credit student, please fill out the Continuing Education online application.
What kind of support services do you offer enrolled students?
Tutoring and writing support services from the Educational Enhancement Program are available to all Rider students. Other support services are provided through the Student Accessibility and Support Services and Counseling Center. In addition, the office of Career Services provides many services including career assessment, workshops, mock interviews, and internship opportunities.
How do I apply?
Contact the Office of Admissions directly at (609) 896-5036 or admissions@rider.edu.
What kind of transfer credits do you accept?
We accept the following transfer credits:
- Credits from a 2 year or 4 year educational institution which holds accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools or an equivalent regional accrediting association. The course work has to be at least "C" quality or equivalent.
- College Level Examination [CLEP] credits
- Advanced Placement credits
- Formal military credits which meet Rider standards and procedures
- DANTES Subject Standardized Test (DSST) which meet credit recommendations established by the American Council on Education
- Validation or assessment of specific courses approved by a Rider faculty member
When and how do I register?
Registration starts in March for the fall semester and October for the spring semester. You may register online through myRider, or through the Registrar's office. If you are planning to take day courses during the fall and spring semester, you will register according to the number of credits you have passed. Registration for the summer session begins in March.
Do I need to meet with an advisor?
We strongly recommend you meet with your assigned advisor prior to course selection. Your faculty advisor will assist you in assessing your goals, meeting your program requirements, and evaluating your course selection options.
Where can I find my student account information, my schedule, or my grades?
You can view your student record online at myRider. You automatically receive an e-mail account at the time you first register. You may access information on grades, class schedule, account balance, unofficial transcript, and financial aid. If you have difficulty with your e-mail account, contact the Office of Information Technology.
How can I change my major or concentration?
We recommend you speak with your faculty advisor prior to changing your major or concentration. Your advisor will determine if you can change your major or concentration without affecting the distribution of credits needed to complete your degree.
May I declare a minor?
Yes, many of our students declare a minor. Refer to the Rider University Academic Catalog for more information on minors or visit the Academics section of our Web site for more information. We recommend that you meet with the Admissions team prior to declaring a minor.
I am struggling in a course, where can I go for tutoring?
If you need additional support for a course, the Academic Success Center schedules group or individual tutoring sessions in a variety of disciplines.
How can I drop or withdraw from a course?
You must drop or withdraw from a course according to the schedule listed on our academic calendar. Tuition refunds will be applied according to the date you drop or withdraw from a course. Official drops or withdrawal must be done through the Registrar's office. You will not be automatically dropped or withdrawn from a class if you do not attend the course(s). Failure to officially drop or withdraw from a course will result in a grade of F.
I am a Rider graduate, may I take additional courses?
Yes, all you need to do is complete a re-enroll form available through the Registrar's office.
Is it possible to complete a second major after graduating Rider?
You will need to contact the office of Students Affairs at (609) 896-5101 for more information.
I attended Rider a long time ago. How do I reapply?
Contact the Office of Admission at admissions@rider.edu and they will assist you with this process.
Will I lose any credits when I reapply?
A faculty advisor will discuss the distribution of credits within the program you choose to pursue. Degree requirements vary. You may lose credits if the program requirements have changed or if the program you are planning to complete is different from the one when you attended Rider. If you remain in the same degree program and you are away for a year, you will not lose any credits.
May I change my degree objective when I reapply?
You may change your degree objective. However, this may result in a loss of credits or having to meet additional requirements specific to the program you are planning to pursue. A faculty advisor will assist you in understanding specific degree objectives and requirements.