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Rider University

Lawrenceville, NJ

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

In Omnia Paratus (Latin)(In all things prepared)

1865
Founded
Private university
Type
3,192
Total Students
$39K
Tuition (In-State)
$39K
Tuition (Out-State)
$25K
Avg Net Price
79%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
6-year
82%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Rider University

Rider University: Where historic business education meets vibrant arts and liberal studies.

Step into the rich legacy of Rider University, a private institution born in 1865 as the Trenton Business College. Guided by its motto, "In Omnia Paratus" (Ready for Anything), Rider has evolved significantly from its early days, proudly carrying its unique cranberry and white colors, a nod to founder Andrew J. Rider's cranberry bogs. This deep historical root underpins a forward-looking commitment to diverse academic excellence.

From its foundational strength in business, Rider strategically expanded its academic horizons in the mid-20th century. The introduction of liberal studies in 1957 paved the way for the establishment of a comprehensive School of Liberal Arts and Sciences in the early 1960s. A pivotal moment arrived in the early 1990s with the merger with the renowned Westminster Choir College, seamlessly integrating a world-class music conservatory into its offerings and broadening its academic and artistic appeal considerably.

Today, Rider University offers a dynamic student experience on its picturesque 283-acre suburban campus in Lawrence Township. Modern amenities like the 63,000-square-foot Student Recreation Center and contemporary residence halls underscore a commitment to student well-being and campus life. While the university has navigated recent financial challenges and shifts in enrollment, its dedication to providing a high-quality, comprehensive education across business, arts, and sciences remains steadfast, preparing students to be truly "Ready for Anything."

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1865 as Trenton Business College, evolving into a comprehensive private university.
  • Known for its unique merger with the prestigious Westminster Choir College in 1991-92, enhancing its arts programs.
  • Pioneered business education, expanding to offer liberal arts and sciences degrees by the 1960s.
  • Features a modern 63,000-square-foot Student Recreation Center and extensive residence halls completed in 2005.
  • Boasts a scenic 283-acre suburban campus in Lawrence Township, New Jersey, since 1959.
  • School colors, cranberry and white, are inspired by founder Andrew J. Rider's cranberry bogs.
  • Granted permission to confer Bachelor's degrees as early as 1922, an early adopter in its field.

Timeline

1865
Founded as Trenton Business College by Henry Beadman Bryant and Henry D. Stratton.
1896
Women admitted; school renamed Rider Business College.
1920
Moved to East State Street in Trenton and officially became Rider College.
1922
New Jersey Board of Education granted permission to confer Bachelor's degrees.
1959
Moved its campus to a 283-acre suburban tract in Lawrence Township, N.J.
1962
Reorganized into five separate schools, including a new School of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
1991
Merged with Westminster Choir College.
1994
The college became Rider University.
2005
Completed its 63,000-square-foot Student Recreation Center and new residence halls.
🏛️
161 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Rider University

🏫

Westminster Choir College

A prestigious music conservatory specializing in choral studies, merged with Rider in 1991-92.

🎭

School of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Established in 1962 as part of a major reorganization, offering a broad range of humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

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