Supporting Your Student

Student privacy is protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

FERPA and HIPAA are federal laws that protect the privacy of personal information. FERPA protects students' educational records, while HIPAA protects patients' medical records. This means Rider University cannot notify parents/guardians or share information about a student’s medical visits, health needs, emotional or academic struggles unless the student gives written consent. 

The University may notify a student's designated emergency contact if there is an immediate safety risk.

In a medical emergency, the University may notify a student's designated emergency contact. 

Please encourage your student to review their personal data in myRider to:

• Confirm that their emergency contact information is up-to-date.
• Set up additional emergency contact numbers (if applicable). 

Health insurance is required for all full-time undergraduate and graduate students at Rider University.

All full-time students are automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP), unless they provide proof of coverage (through a parent, guardian, or employer) and submit a waiver. You must WAIVE or ENROLL in the SHIP each academic year.

Students should check that their current insurance provides adequate coverage in the Rider University area, especially if they are from out of state.

Please review the Pre-Entrance Health Requirements carefully to ensure your student's health forms are completed before the deadline. Students must submit proof of required immunizations (MMR, Meningococcal, Hepatitis B, etc.) via the Healthy Broncs Portal.

Due date for completion of health requirements:

• Fall start term: July 15
• Spring start term: January 15

Failure to submit records may result in registration holds, fees, or restrictions on moving into campus housing.

Families play an essential role in supporting student success. View and/or download our Campus Contacts list for admitted students and their families. 

Rider offers many opportunities for you to stay engaged in the campus experience:

• Alumni and Family Day: Join us each fall to reconnect with your student, enjoy campus activities, and experience Rider’s vibrant community.
• Athletic Events: Cheer on the Broncs throughout the year, attend games, and be part of our spirited campus traditions.
• Performing Arts Events: Enjoy theatre, music, and dance productions showcasing our talented students and faculty.
• Campus Events and Traditions: Participate in academic lectures, alumni events, and special celebrations that strengthen your connection to Rider.

We encourage you and your family to take advantage of these opportunities to stay involved and support your student's journey at Rider.

Parents/guardians and family members play a crucial role in supporting their student’s transition to Rider, especially when it comes to managing stress and anxiety. Here are a few key ways to help:

Foster Open Communication

• Check in regularly, but allow them to take the lead in sharing their experiences. 
• Validate their feelings and remind them that adjusting to college takes time.

Promote Healthy Habits

• Reinforce the importance of sleep, nutrition, and exercise for mental well-being.
• Encourage breaks and engagement in enjoyable activities.

Support Their Existing & New Support Systems

• If they already see a therapist, suggest continuing sessions rather than stopping due to the transition.
• Remind them that Rider’s Counseling Center and Uwill teletherapy services are free and accessible.

Encourage Campus Involvement & Resources

• Rider offers programs like Rider Ramp Up, peer mentoring, and counseling services to help students adjust.
• Suggest joining clubs, organizations, or social groups to build connections.
• If they live on campus, remind them that Residence Life staff, including Community Advisors (CAs) and Community Directors (CDs), are available for guidance and support.

Help Them Build Independence

• Encourage them to advocate for themselves and seek support when needed.
• Remind them to reach out to professors, advisors, and campus services instead of relying on you to intervene.

Rider University provides a variety of free academic and career resources to help students thrive: 

Professors & Academic Advisors: Encourage your student to build strong relationships with their professors and academic advisors for guidance on course selection, major requirements, and academic progress. Professors hold office hours for additional support, while advisors help students stay on track for graduation. 

Academic Success Center: Offers tutoring, writing support, and study strategies to boost academic performance: 

• Content Tutoring: Individual or group support for most courses. 
• Writing Studio: Assistance with writing assignments across all disciplines.
• Supplemental Instruction (SI): Peer-led review sessions for select courses.
• Embedded & Professional Tutoring: In-class and one-on-one support for reading, writing, and study skills. 

Center for Career Development & Success: Career coaches help students explore career paths, develop résumés, prepare for interviews, and secure internships. Encourage your student to meet with a career coach early to make the most of Rider’s career services. 

Franklin F. Moore Library: The Moore Library offers research assistance, study spaces, and access to books, journals, and online databases. Librarians provide one-on-one research help to support students with coursework and projects.

Living Learning Communities (LLCs): LLCs are a housing option exclusively for first-year students. These communities provide a supportive residential environment where students with shared academic interests live and learn together, fostering deeper connections and engagement in their studies. 

Student Accessibility and Support Services: Provides support for academic and housing accommodations for students with disabilities.

Students should also download the EAB Navigate app. EAB Navigate helps students view important tasks, connect with campus resources, and communicate with their advisor.

Rider University provides free and confidential counseling services to students through the Counseling Center, including:

• Individual Counseling – Short-term therapy for personal, academic, or emotional concerns.
• Group Counseling – Peer support led by professional counselors.
• Crisis Intervention – Immediate assistance for students in distress.
• Consultation Services – Guidance for students, faculty, or staff concerned about a student’s well-being.
• Referrals – Assistance in connecting with off-campus providers for long-term or specialized care.
• Workshops & Outreach Programs – Sessions on stress management, mindfulness, and coping strategies.

Staffed by licensed mental health professionals, the Counseling Center operates on a short-term, solution-focused model. There is a limit to the number of individual counseling sessions a student can receive per academic year; however, the exact number of sessions varies depending on the student’s needs and the professional judgment of the counseling staff.

If a student requires long-term care, specialized treatment or more intensive support, the Counseling Center can provide referrals to off-campus mental health providers. Off-campus services may involve costs depending on the student’s insurance coverage.

Student Privacy Reminder: Due to FERPA and HIPAA privacy laws, Rider cannot notify parents of a student’s academic or emotional struggles unless the student provides written permission.

Students are encouraged to schedule appointments with the Counseling Center:

• Online: Healthy Broncs Portal
• By email: counseling@rider.edu
• By phone: 609-896-5157 (email/voicemail should never be used in case of an emergency.)

Walk-In Crisis Support: If a student is in immediate distress, they can visit the Counseling Center in Zoerner House for crisis intervention without an appointment.

After-Hours Support: For mental health emergencies outside of business hours, students can contact Public Safety (609-896-7777) to be connected with the on-call counselor or use off-campus emergency resources.

24/7 teletherapy: Rider University partners with Uwill, a 24/7 teletherapy platform that provides students with free, flexible access to licensed mental health professionals through video, phone, chat, or messaging. Uwill offers an additional layer of support outside of traditional Counseling Center hours, ensuring students can connect with a counselor anytime, anywhere.

Rider offers a variety of programs to help students socially and emotionally transition to college life.

Orientation: Offers opportunities to meet classmates and prepare for a successful start at Rider. This fun and informative event is mandatory for new students. Visit the New Student Orientation page to learn more and register for a session.

Rider Ramp Up: Provides students with opportunities to connect with peers, learn about campus resources, and develop key skills for a successful college experience. There is no cost to participate. Students will receive invitations via their Rider email account with details on how to get involved. The program includes:

• Workshops and coaching sessions on topics like time management, self-advocacy, and navigating campus life.
• Guided social activities to help students build friendships and a sense of belonging.
• Access to campus support services such as the Counseling Center, Student Accessibility and Support Services, and Academic Success resources.
• Specialized support for students who may experience social challenges, including those on the autism spectrum or with anxiety about college transitions.

Additional social and emotional support resources: 

• Counseling Center - Individual and group support led by licensed mental health professionals.
• Peer Mentoring – Connecting students with upperclassmen for guidance and support.
• Early Arrival programs – Help students from diverse backgrounds get settled in before the start of the semester.
• Student Clubs and Organizations – Encouraging involvement and building social networks.

Taking care of physical health is just as important as academics. Rider offers various resources to help students maintain well-being: 

• Student Health Center – Provides medical care, immunizations, and wellness referrals. 
• Counseling Center – Offers mental health support and stress management workshops. 
• Gourmet Dining Dietitian – Provides nutrition counseling for healthy eating habits. 
• Wellness Workshops & Programs – Focus on self-care, mindfulness, and stress reduction. 
• Fitness & Recreation – Encourages physical activity through gym facilities, fitness classes, club sports and intramural sports. 

Encourage your student to take advantage of these free resources and establish healthy habits early in their college experience.

Staffed with nurse practitioners, nurses, medical assistants and administrative staff, the Rider University Student Health Center offers a range of health services to ensure students have access to medical care when they need it. 

• General Medical Care – Treatment for common illnesses and minor injuries. 
• Preventive Care – Vaccinations, routine physicals, and health screenings. 
• Women's and Men's Health Services – Gynecological exams, contraception counseling, STI testing, and referrals.
• Chronic Condition Management – Support for ongoing health conditions like asthma, diabetes, and allergies.
• Prescription Assistance – Some medications available on-site; assistance with prescriptions as needed.
• Referrals to Specialists – If advanced care is needed, the Student Health Center can connect students with local providers.
• Mental Health Support – Collaboration with the Counseling Center and referrals for psychiatric care. 

If you’re concerned about your student’s health, encourage them to communicate with you directly and to seek care when needed.

• Scheduling Appointments: Recommended for non-urgent visits to the Health Center. Please call 609-896-5060 and have your insurance information readily available. (Walk-ins may be available for urgent needs.)
• Emergency Care: Public Safety (609-896-7777) is available 24/7 to assist students with transportation to medical facilities if needed. If you are off-campus, call 911 for emergencies.

Student Privacy Reminder: Due to HIPAA privacy laws, the Student Health Center cannot share information about a student’s medical visits or health needs with parents or guardians without the student’s written consent. In a medical emergency, the University may notify a student's designated emergency contact.

The Student Health Center bills the student's health insurance plan for all services including office visits, immunizations, physicals, etc. The cost-of-care is similar to the cost-of-care in the local community. 

Visit the Appointments and Costs page for more information. 

Rider's Student Health Center can assist with some prescriptions, but it does not have a full pharmacy on-site.

• The Health Center provides some common medications for acute illnesses.
• For other prescriptions, students will need to use a local pharmacy.
• A local pharmacy offers delivery service to campus for added convenience.
• Allergy shots are not administered at the Health Center; students needing this service must arrange care with an off-campus provider.

The Student Health Center offers some immunizations, including flu shots during flu season. Students should check with the Health Center regarding the availability of other vaccines. For vaccines not provided on campus, students may be referred to local pharmacies or healthcare providers.
 

Students requiring physicals for study abroad programs, academic requirements, or work purposes can request these services at the Student Health Center. Bring any necessary forms to the appointment and complete your portion in advance. 

• Study abroad physicals: schedule the appointment 4-6 weeks prior to travel to allow time for any required vaccinations or specialist referrals. 
• Sports-related physicals: the Health Center does not provide these exams. Students needing a sports physical should consult their primary care provider or athletic trainer for referrals.

If a student gets sick or injured after hours, they have several options for care.

Immediate Assistance:

• Public Safety (609-896-7777): Available 24/7 for emergencies and can assist with transportation to local medical facilities if needed.
• Residence Life: Community Advisors (CAs) and Community Directors (CDs) can help students assess their situation and connect them with resources.

Medical Care Options:

Capital Health Telehealth provides on-demand virtual medical care for Rider University students, offering convenient access to healthcare professionals without leaving campus. Through secure video visits, students can receive medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment for common illnesses, such as colds, allergies, and minor infections. Telehealth is a great option for non-emergency concerns when the Student Health Center is closed or for students who prefer a virtual consultation.

Are there nearby hospitals or urgent care facilities?

• Local Urgent Care Centers – Several urgent care facilities near campus provide walk-in treatment for non-emergency illnesses and injuries.
  • CVS Minute Clinic
• Hospital Emergency Room – For serious or life-threatening conditions, students should go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
  • Capital Health Medical Center - Hopewell
  • Capital Health Regional Medical Center
     

Rider University provides transportation for medical emergencies through Public Safety (609-896-7777), which is available 24/7.

• Emergency Situations: Public Safety will call 911 for an ambulance transport to the nearest hospital.
• Non-Emergency Transport: Public Safety may assist with transportation to medical facilities if needed.

Students with chronic conditions can successfully manage their care at Rider by proactively using campus and local resources. Steps to help your student stay on track:

Utilize Health & Accessibility Services 

• The Student Health Center provides routine care, specialist referrals, and medication management assistance. 
• Student Accessibility & Support Services (SASS) offers academic and housing accommodations, such as extended test time and accessible housing. 

Stay on Top of Medications & Treatments 

• Ensure prescriptions are up to date and arrange for refills through a local pharmacy (some offer delivery to campus). 

Encourage Self-Advocacy 

• Support your student in communicating with professors, advisors, and health professionals about their needs. 
• Help them develop a plan for managing flare-ups and knowing when to seek additional support.

Accommodations are available for students with disabilities and/or medical needs through Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS).

To request accommodations at Rider University:

1. Submit Documentation – Students must provide medical documentation from a licensed provider outlining the condition and recommended accommodations.
2. Complete an Accommodation Request – Requests can be submitted through the SASS office. Forms and guidelines are available on Rider’s website.
3. Schedule a Meeting – Students meet with a SASS staff member to discuss their needs and finalize accommodations.
4. Receive an Accommodation Letter – Approved accommodations are provided in writing for students to share with faculty and relevant campus offices.

SASS Guidelines and Forms

Please contact SASS at accessibility@rider.edu with questions on the accommodation process and support resources.

Rider University provides academic accommodations for both in-person and online courses through Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS) to support students with disabilities and medical conditions. Accommodations are determined based on documentation of individual student needs. 

Common accommodations include:

• Extended Testing Time – Additional time on exams and quizzes.
• Alternative Testing Location – A reduced-distraction environment for test-taking.
• Assistive Technology – Access to note-taking software and other learning tools (note: human note-takers are not provided).
• Alternative Formats for Materials – Textbooks and course materials in digital, large print, or audio formats.
• Use of a Laptop or Voice Recorder – For students who need electronic note-taking or recording support.
• Priority Registration – Early course selection for students with documented scheduling needs.

Students must renew their academic accommodations each semester through Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS) to ensure they remain in place.

No, professors will not automatically be informed of a student’s disability. However, if a student is approved for accommodations through Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS), they will receive an Accommodation Letter outlining their approved academic adjustments.

How professors are notified:

• Students are responsible for sharing their Accommodation Letter with their professors each semester.
• The letter does not disclose the student’s specific disability, only the accommodations they are entitled to receive.
• Professors are required to implement the approved accommodations but are not allowed to ask about the student’s diagnosis.
• If a student needs assistance discussing accommodations with faculty, SASS staff can provide guidance and support.

In addition to academic accommodations, students with disabilities have access to extra support services to help them succeed:

• Tutoring Services – Available through the Academic Success Center, offering support in various subjects.
• One-on-One Coaching – Students can meet weekly with a graduate assistant (GA) or staff member to develop study skills, time management strategies, and academic planning.
• Assistive Technology – Tools like text-to-speech software, note-taking applications, and screen readers to support learning.
• Workshops & Academic Support Programs – Study skills sessions, organization strategies, and exam preparation resources.

Students can connect with Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS) to learn more and schedule coaching sessions.

If a student experiences challenges with their accommodations, they should take the following steps:

• Contact the Office of Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS) – The student should reach out as soon as they notice an issue to discuss concerns and possible solutions.
• Communicate with their professors – If an accommodation is not being implemented as expected, students should inform their instructor and provide their Accommodation Letter as a reminder.
• Request assistance from SASS – If a professor is not providing an approved accommodation or there are barriers in accessing support, SASS can intervene and work with faculty to resolve the issue.
• Adjust or update accommodations (if needed) – If a student’s needs change, they may request a review of their accommodations with SASS and provide updated documentation if required.

Students are encouraged to advocate for themselves, but SASS is available to help ensure accommodations are being properly implemented.
 

Rider University offers several resources to help students build self-advocacy skills so they can effectively communicate their needs and navigate college successfully:

• Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS) – Provides one-on-one coaching to help students understand their accommodations and practice self-advocacy in academic settings.
• Faculty Office Hours – Encourages students to practice self-advocacy by directly communicating with professors about coursework and accommodations.

Great opportunities for new Rider students to practice self-advocacy include:

• Contact the SASS office at accessibility@rider.edu to schedule an accessibility consultation 
• Attend an Admitted Student Day event
• Participate in a New Student Orientation session

These experiences allow students to ask questions about accommodations, discuss their needs, and gain confidence in communicating with faculty and staff before the semester begins.

Rider University’s Two-Year Residency Requirement gives students two options: 

1. Live on campus in University housing. Rider offers Living Learning Communities (LLCs) and other residence hall options for undergraduates.
2. Commute from home (primary residence) shared with a parent/guardian. 

Off-campus housing is not permitted for students in the first and second year at Rider. 

All students must formally notify Rider of their living arrangements by submitting either a housing contract (for on-campus residents) or a commuter notification form (for those living at home). Exemptions may be approved on a limited basis.

To learn more, view the New Student Housing Process page. 

Yes, Rider University’s Dining Services provides support for students with dietary restrictions and food allergies.

Available support includes:

• On-Campus Dietitian – Available for students needing personalized meal planning. Provides nutrition counseling and healthy eating guidance for students looking to improve their diet or manage dietary restrictions. Learn more about Rider's free nutrition services.
• Allergen-Friendly Stations – The dining hall offers options for gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs.
• Ingredient Transparency – Menus and signage indicate common allergens, and staff are trained in safe food handling for allergy concerns.
• Special Meal Accommodations – Students with medically documented dietary needs can work with the dining team to arrange customized meal options. Students can contact Gourmet Dining directly or request assistance through Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS) if accommodations are needed.

Students with a severe medical condition or disability can request housing accommodations through Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS). Medical documentation must be submitted to SASS.  Do not share medical information with the Office of Residence Life.

Students with may also request meal accommodations or apply for a meal plan exemption through the Housing/Dining Accommodations process. 

Please review the New Student Housing Process page for important dates and instructions.

Contact the SASS office by phone at 609-895-5492 or email accessibility@rider.edu with questions on the accommodations process.

Rider University is committed to providing an accessible campus environment for students with physical disabilities.

Classroom Accessibility:

• Most classrooms and academic buildings are ADA-compliant and have accessible seating and entrances.
• Elevators and ramps are available in multi-story academic buildings.
• Students needing specific classroom modifications should coordinate with Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS).

Housing Accommodations:

• Accessible housing is available for students with mobility impairments or other medical needs.
• Accommodations may include wheelchair-accessible rooms, roll-in showers, and proximity to campus resources.
• Requests for accessible housing should be made through SASS and Residence Life as early as possible.

Accessible housing accommodations at Rider University are granted on a first-come, first-served basis. While the university strives to meet the needs of all students, the availability of accessible rooms and specific accommodations is limited. Students requiring housing modifications or classroom accessibility support should submit their requests as early as possible through SASS to ensure the best chance of receiving their preferred accommodations. Refer to the New Student Housing Process page for important dates. 

Campus Facilities & Transportation:

• Many dining halls, libraries, and student centers have accessible entrances and seating.
• Designated accessible parking spaces are available throughout campus.
• If additional mobility support is needed, students should contact SASS for assistance.

Students with specific accessibility concerns are encouraged to schedule a campus accessibility consultation with SASS before the semester begins.
 

Rider University is committed to fostering a secure environment where students can focus on their education and personal growth. 

• Department of Public Safety – Available 24/7 for emergencies and assistance. Encourage your student to save these Public Safety contacts to their phone:
  • Non-Emergency: 609-896-5029
  • Emergency: 609-896-7777

Public Safety officers undergo training throughout the year to respond to a variety of situations in a prompt, professional and caring manner. They may rely on assistance from the Office of Residence Life or Counseling Center or off campus resources such as the police or emergency services. Officers are qualified in first aid and CPR for the Health Care Provider, and are trained to administer the AED, Oxygen, NARCAN, and Epi-pens. The Department also has certified EMTs on staff.

In addition to a 24/7 Public Safety presence, campus safety and emergency resources include:

• Safety Checks: Public Safety officers conduct routine security walkthroughs in residence halls and Greek houses. Officers also conduct routine checks of all other buildings as well as parking lots and other areas during their patrols.
• Emergency Blue Lights: Code-blue emergency phones are strategically placed throughout the campus. These phones provide a direct line to the Department of Public Safety for emergencies or immediate assistance. 
• Surveillance Cameras: To enhance security, cameras are used to monitor most campus parking lots and public areas.
• Campus Lighting: To ensure visibility and safety, sodium vapor lights illuminate parking areas, buildings, and walkways. 
• Building Access – ID cards and Key Lock System: Exterior doors of all residential facilities are kept locked throughout the day and evening. Access to exterior doors of most residential facilities is controlled by photo ID cards.

Rider Alert is the University’s emergency notification system for students, faculty and staff. In emergency situations or during inclement weather, students receive messaging via:

• Phone calls
• Texts
• Emails

Supplemental information may be posted to rider.edu or sent via internal email. 

It is critical that your student ensures their contact information is up to date in myRider in order to receive Rider Alert messages.