M.A. in Applied Psychology

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A completed bachelor's degree: Prospective postgraduate students must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. Typically, this should be a four-year undergraduate degree.

• Minimum GPA: Rider University often requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent. 

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): An overall band score of 6.5 or higher is commonly required, with no individual band score below 6.0.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT: A minimum total score of 79 is required.

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Rider University accept a DET score of 100 or higher as evidence of English proficiency.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A PTE score of 53 or higher is accepted.

Rider University offers various scholarship opportunities to international students to help alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and other criteria. 

1. Global Leaders Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is designed for international undergraduate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. It covers a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarship: International transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society may be eligible for this scholarship. It recognizes academic excellence and provides financial assistance.

3. Presidential Scholarships: Rider University awards Presidential Scholarships to top-performing international undergraduate students. These scholarships are highly competitive and provide substantial financial support.

4. Dean's Scholarship: Dean's Scholarships are available to international undergraduate students who have a strong academic record. The scholarship amount varies based on academic qualifications.

5. International Achievement Award: This scholarship acknowledges the accomplishments of international undergraduate students. It is based on a combination of academic achievement and extracurricular involvement.

6. Graduate Assistantships: Rider University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's degrees. These assistantships provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for work on campus.

7. Talent Scholarships: Rider provides talent-based scholarships for students with exceptional abilities in areas such as the arts, music, and athletics. International students with exceptional talents can apply for these scholarships.

8. Honors Program Scholarships: Students accepted into Rider's Honors Program may be eligible for additional scholarships, which recognize outstanding academic achievement and commitment to intellectual growth.

9. Corporate and Foundation Scholarships: Rider University has partnerships with various corporations and foundations that offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria.

10. Study Abroad Scholarships: Rider encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. Scholarships are available to support students who wish to study in another country as part of their academic experience.

It's important for international students to review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.

Rider University offers a highly respected Master of Arts (M.A.) in Applied Psychology program. This program is designed to prepare graduates for diverse and rewarding careers in the field of psychology, where they can apply psychological principles to solve real-world problems and improve individual and societal well-being.  

1. Clinical Psychologist: Graduates who pursue licensure as clinical psychologists can work in private practice, mental health clinics, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers, providing therapy and mental health services to individuals and families.

2. Counselor: Graduates often become counselors, specializing in areas such as school counseling, career counseling, or substance abuse counseling. They assist individuals in overcoming personal and emotional challenges.

3. Industrial-Organizational Psychologist: Industrial-organizational psychologists apply psychological principles to workplace issues. They work in HR departments, helping organizations improve productivity, employee satisfaction, and workplace culture.

4. Forensic Psychologist: Forensic psychologists work within the criminal justice system, providing psychological assessments, expert testimony, and therapy to individuals involved in legal cases, including defendants, victims, and witnesses.

5. Health Psychologist: Health psychologists focus on the interplay between mental and physical health. They may work in hospitals, healthcare organizations, or research institutions, helping individuals manage chronic illnesses and improve overall well-being.

6. Sports Psychologist: Graduates with an interest in sports psychology can work with athletes, coaches, and sports teams to enhance performance, manage stress, and address psychological factors affecting athletic achievement.

7. School Psychologist: School psychologists work in educational settings, assisting students with learning disabilities, behavioral issues, and emotional challenges. They collaborate with educators and parents to create supportive environments.

8. Geropsychologist: Geropsychologists specialize in working with older adults, addressing issues related to aging, dementia, and mental health in the elderly population. They may work in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, or private practice.

9. Community Psychologist: Community psychologists focus on improving the well-being of communities and addressing social issues such as poverty, homelessness, and substance abuse. They often work with nonprofit organizations and government agencies.

10. Human Resources Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers in human resources, where their understanding of psychology is valuable for employee recruitment, training, and performance evaluation.

11. Substance Abuse Counselor: Substance abuse counselors work with individuals struggling with addiction, providing therapy, support, and guidance on the path to recovery.

12. Researcher and Academic: Some graduates choose to work in research or academic roles, conducting studies and teaching psychology at colleges and universities.

13. Behavior Analyst: Behavior analysts work with individuals with autism or developmental disabilities, using applied behavior analysis (ABA) to improve behavior, communication, and social skills.

14. Organizational Development Specialist: Organizational development specialists help organizations enhance their effectiveness and efficiency by analyzing workplace dynamics, conducting assessments, and implementing interventions.

15. Market Research Analyst: Graduates may work in market research, using psychological insights to understand consumer behavior, preferences, and trends for businesses and marketing agencies.

16. Child Welfare Specialist: Child welfare specialists work with child protective services agencies to assess and address child abuse or neglect cases, providing support and intervention to families.

17. Mental Health Program Manager: Some graduates take on managerial roles within mental health clinics or community organizations, overseeing programs and services for clients with mental health needs.

18. Educational Consultant: Educational consultants work with schools and educational institutions to develop programs, interventions, and strategies to support student success and well-being.

19. Elder Care Coordinator: Graduates may work as elder care coordinators, helping older adults and their families navigate healthcare, housing, and social services.

20. Family Therapist: Family therapists provide counseling and support to families facing challenges, helping them improve communication and relationships.