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Rivier University

Nashua, NH

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Altiora et Meliora(Higher and Better)

1933
Founded
Private university
Type
1,312
Total Students
943
Undergrad
770
Graduate
$41M
Endowment
(2020)
$38K
Tuition (In-State)
$38K
Tuition (Out-State)
$28K
Avg Net Price
82%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Graduation Rate
6-year
76%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About Rivier University

A private Catholic university in Nashua, NH, dedicated to service and social teaching.

Rivier University is a vibrant private institution located in Nashua, New Hampshire, deeply rooted in its Catholic mission. Founded on the principles of Catholic social teaching, the university is committed to fostering an environment that serves not only its diverse student body but also the economically disadvantaged, embodying its core values.

Established in 1933 as "Rivier College" by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary, the university was named in honor of its founder, Anne-Marie Rivier. Its early years saw it incorporate in 1935, swiftly gaining the authority to offer both graduate and undergraduate programs. A significant moment in its history occurred in 1941 when the college moved to its current, expansive campus in Nashua. The campus also holds a piece of national history, as it was visited by then-Senator John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in 1960, shortly after Kennedy began his presidential campaign.

The institution has continually evolved to meet contemporary educational needs. In 1991, it proudly became coeducational, welcoming its first male undergraduate students and broadening its community. This evolution culminated on July 1, 2012, when Rivier College was officially renamed Rivier University, reflecting its comprehensive range of academic offerings and its mature educational standing. Prospective students and their families will find Rivier University to be a place where strong academics meet a commitment to service and a supportive community.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1933 by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary, named after Anne-Marie Rivier.
  • A private university with a strong mission rooted in Catholic social teaching and service to the economically disadvantaged.
  • Enrollment of 2,238 students.
  • Motto: "Altiora et Meliora" (Higher and Better).
  • Became coeducational in 1991, admitting its first male undergraduate students.
  • Visited by then-Senator John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in 1960.
  • Offers comprehensive graduate and undergraduate level programs.

Timeline

1933
Founded as "Rivier College" by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary.
1935
Incorporated and granted authority to offer graduate and undergraduate programs.
1941
Moved to its present campus location in Nashua, New Hampshire.
1960
Senator John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis visited the college.
1991
Became coeducational, admitting its first male undergraduate students.
2012
Renamed Rivier University on July 1.
🏛️
93 Years
of Excellence

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