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Rivier University: Rivier College
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Catholic college

Rivier University

  • LocationNashua, NH
  • Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 2,879 students
  • SponsorSisters of the Presentation of Mary
Official website

Rivier University in Nashua, New Hampshire, was founded in 1933 by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. Campus Ministry, staffed by a full-time director and a part-time chaplain, lists Sunday Mass in Resurrection Chapel on five Sundays in fall 2026 and states that daily Mass is not currently held on campus. The Journeys of Transformation core requires two religion courses, one philosophy course, and a one-credit service-learning course that connects service with Catholic social teaching.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 3

  • Sunday11:00 AMResurrection Chapel · Sunday, September 20, 2026 only (Fall 2026 schedule); followed by a social.
  • Sunday10:00 AMResurrection Chapel · Alumni Mass, Sunday, September 27, 2026 only.
  • Sunday12:00 PMResurrection Chapel · Fall 2026: Sundays October 18, November 8, and December 6 (final Mass of the semester) only; followed by a social.

Times come only from official parish, chaplaincy, or school pages, and can change with the season. Last verified Oct. 8, 2026.

Sources for these times (1)
  1. Mass Schedule | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/mass-schedule · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Sunday, September 20 | 11 a.m. | Sunday, September 27 – Alumni Mass | 10 a.m. | Sunday, October 18 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, November 8 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, December 6 – Final Mass of the semester | 12 p.m. |”
    The Fall 2026 schedule lists five Sunday Masses: Sept. 20 at 11 AM, Sept. 27 (Alumni Mass) at 10 AM, and Oct. 18, Nov. 8, and Dec. 6 at 12 PM.
    “Sunday, September 20 | 11 a.m. | Sunday, September 27 – Alumni Mass | 10 a.m. | Sunday, October 18 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, November 8 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, December 6 – Final Mass of the semester | 12 p.m. |”
    The Fall 2026 schedule lists five Sunday Masses: Sept. 20 at 11 AM, Sept. 27 (Alumni Mass) at 10 AM, and Oct. 18, Nov. 8, and Dec. 6 at 12 PM.
    “Sunday, September 20 | 11 a.m. | Sunday, September 27 – Alumni Mass | 10 a.m. | Sunday, October 18 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, November 8 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, December 6 – Final Mass of the semester | 12 p.m. |”
    The Fall 2026 schedule lists five Sunday Masses: Sept. 20 at 11 AM, Sept. 27 (Alumni Mass) at 10 AM, and Oct. 18, Nov. 8, and Dec. 6 at 12 PM.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of Rivier University, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches1 mi2 mi3 miResurrection Chapel: 0.1 mi1Saint Aloysius: 1.4 mi2Infant Jesus Church: 1.4 mi3Saint Patrick's: 1.5 mi4Immaculate Conception Parish: 1.5 mi5Saint John the Evangelist: 1.9 mi6Rivier University Campus Ministry (Dion Center): 0.1 miRivier University (campus)N1 mi
CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. Resurrection Chapel — 0.1 mi · 427 South Main Street, Nashua
  2. Saint Aloysius — 1.4 mi · 48 West Hollis Street, Nashua
  3. Infant Jesus Church — 1.4 mi · 121 Allds Street, Nashua
  4. Saint Patrick's — 1.5 mi
  5. Immaculate Conception Parish — 1.5 mi · 216 East Dunstable Road, Nashua
  6. Saint John the Evangelist — 1.9 mi · 25 Library Street, Hudson

Within 3 miles, as mapped by OpenStreetMap contributors. The map may be incomplete. Confirm with the parish or diocese.

Faith scorecard

Each line is one thing we looked for. A check means yes, a half means partly, a dash means no. “Not enough information” means official sources did not say.

FSacramental life: Minimal (grade F): 0 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Sacramental life

33 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • No: the school does not offer this, so it earns no points.
    Weekday Mass on campus during the academic yearNo weekday Mass on campus (Campus Ministry states that daily Mass is not currently held at Resurrection Chapel; the Fall 2026 schedule lists Sunday Masses only.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Programs and Events | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/programs-events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “While daily mass is not held at Resurrection Chapel currently, opportunities for worship are available in our local community.”
      Daily Mass is not currently held on campus.
    2. Mass Schedule | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/mass-schedule · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Sunday, September 20 | 11 a.m. | Sunday, September 27 – Alumni Mass | 10 a.m. | Sunday, October 18 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, November 8 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, December 6 – Final Mass of the semester | 12 p.m. |”
      The Fall 2026 schedule lists five Sunday Masses: Sept. 20 at 11 AM, Sept. 27 (Alumni Mass) at 10 AM, and Oct. 18, Nov. 8, and Dec. 6 at 12 PM.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Sunday Mass on campus (including Saturday vigil)One weekend Mass (One Sunday Mass in Resurrection Chapel on scheduled Sundays: five dates in fall 2026 (Sept. 20 at 11 AM, Sept. 27 Alumni Mass at 10 AM, Oct. 18, Nov. 8, and Dec. 6 at 12 PM).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass Schedule | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/mass-schedule · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Fall 2026 Mass Schedule Sunday Mass regularly takes place in Resurrection Chapel during the school year, unless otherwise noted.”
      Sunday Mass is held in Resurrection Chapel on campus during the school year.
      “Sunday, September 20 | 11 a.m. | Sunday, September 27 – Alumni Mass | 10 a.m. | Sunday, October 18 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, November 8 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, December 6 – Final Mass of the semester | 12 p.m. |”
      The Fall 2026 schedule lists five Sunday Masses: Sept. 20 at 11 AM, Sept. 27 (Alumni Mass) at 10 AM, and Oct. 18, Nov. 8, and Dec. 6 at 12 PM.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Scheduled confession on campusNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Eucharistic adorationNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Priests serving studentsPart-time or visiting priest (The 2026-2027 handbook says Campus Ministry is staffed by a full-time director and a part-time chaplain. Father John Bucchino is listed on the Campus Ministry team (title: Pastor; location: Resurrection Chapel).)
    Sources (2)
    1. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Campus Ministry is staffed by a full-time director and a part-time chaplain.”
      Campus Ministry has a full-time director and a part-time chaplain.
    2. Meet the Campus Ministry Team | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/team · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Father John Bucchino Pastor Email jbucchino@rivier.edu Location Resurrection Chapel”
      Father John Bucchino is listed on the Campus Ministry team, located at Resurrection Chapel.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Chapel open for prayer on campusNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Published weekly schedule of Mass, confession, and adoration1 to 5 times a week (3 weekly times documented: 3 Mass, 0 confession, 0 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).
CTheology and core curriculum: Mixed (grade C): 55 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Theology and core curriculum

56 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Theology or religious studies courses required of all bachelor's studentsTwo courses (Journeys of Transformation common core: FYS REL 115 God and the Created Order (listed on the BSN program sheet as RELS 115 The Dignity of Creation: God and the Created Order) plus one Faith, Religion, and Social Justice religion course. Three-year applied degrees take the same core. The core complement also offers religious studies as one humanities option (not counted).)
    Sources (3)
    1. Core Curriculum | Undergraduate Programs | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/undergraduate/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “FYS REL 115 God and the Created Order Credits: 3”
      The common core includes the first-year religion course God and the Created Order.
      “Faith, Religion, and Social Justice One religion course developed with this theme at its center. Ethics, Values, and Moral Choices One Philosophy course developed with this theme at its center.”
      The common core requires one religion course on faith, religion, and social justice and one philosophy course on ethics.
    2. B.S. in Nursing program sheet 2026 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2026/08/UGProgSheet-Nursing-2026.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “RELS 115 The Dignity of Creation: God and the Created Order”
      The BSN program sheet lists RELS 115 The Dignity of Creation: God and the Created Order among core courses.
    3. Degree in 3: Three-Year Bachelor's Degrees | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/three-year · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “You’ll take the same core and major classes as students in a traditional four-year degree”
      Three-year applied bachelor's students take the same core as four-year students.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Required theology includes explicitly Catholic content (Scripture, Catholic tradition, sacraments)Catholic theology is one option among several (The required religion courses have general titles (God and the Created Order; a Faith, Religion, and Social Justice course).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Core Curriculum | Undergraduate Programs | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/undergraduate/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “FYS REL 115 God and the Created Order Credits: 3”
      The common core includes the first-year religion course God and the Created Order.
      “Faith, Religion, and Social Justice One religion course developed with this theme at its center. Ethics, Values, and Moral Choices One Philosophy course developed with this theme at its center.”
      The common core requires one religion course on faith, religion, and social justice and one philosophy course on ethics.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Philosophy courses required of all bachelor's studentsOne course (One philosophy course in the 'Ethics, Values, and Moral Choices' area (e.g. PHIL 337 Bioethics in Healthcare for nursing).)
    Sources (2)
    1. Core Curriculum | Undergraduate Programs | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/undergraduate/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Faith, Religion, and Social Justice One religion course developed with this theme at its center. Ethics, Values, and Moral Choices One Philosophy course developed with this theme at its center.”
      The common core requires one religion course on faith, religion, and social justice and one philosophy course on ethics.
    2. B.S. in Nursing program sheet 2026 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2026/08/UGProgSheet-Nursing-2026.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “RELS – One Faith, Religion and Social Justice course SERV 100 Serving the World”
      Nursing students also take one Faith, Religion and Social Justice course and SERV 100 Serving the World.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Core curriculum explicitly draws on the Catholic intellectual traditionYes, stated in the catalog or core description (The core curriculum page states that the core's four 'Big Questions' are central to the faith heritage, intellectual tradition, and social teachings of the Roman Catholic Church; the mission-focused undergraduate goals include the Catholic tradition.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Core Curriculum | Undergraduate Programs | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/undergraduate/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “These questions are central to the faith heritage, intellectual tradition, and social teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.”
      The core curriculum's organizing questions are described as central to the Catholic intellectual tradition.
    2. Our Mission | About | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/about/mission · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Foster a Sense of the Sacred and of the Dignity of the Human Person, particularly as expressed through the Catholic Tradition”
      The mission-focused undergraduate curriculum goals include the Catholic tradition.
  • No: the school does not offer this, so it earns no points.
    Theology or religious studies major offeredNo (The program finder and academic minors list include no theology or religious studies major or minor. Religious studies is available only as a six-course humanities focus within the Liberal Studies B.A.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Liberal Studies at Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/all-programs/liberal-studies · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “substantial study in a humanities discipline of your choice, such as art history, history, language, literature, philosophy, or religious studies.”
      Religious studies is available as a focus within the Liberal Studies degree.
    2. Liberal Studies program sheet 2026 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2026/08/UGProgSheet-LiberalStudies-2026.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Six courses, or 18 credits, in one discipline (History, Language, Literature, Philosophy, Religious Studies).”
      The Liberal Studies B.A. humanities focus may be in religious studies (six courses).
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Publicly affirms Ex Corde Ecclesiae in mission or governance documentsNot enough information: not found in official sources.
CCampus culture and residence life: Mixed (grade C): 55 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Campus culture and residence life

66 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Campus ministry staffing (chaplains, ministers, and professional staff)Two to four (2 people: the Director of Campus Ministry and Service Learning and the part-time chaplain (Father John Bucchino).)
    Sources (2)
    1. Meet the Campus Ministry Team | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/team · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Emily Daversa Director of Campus Ministry and Service Learning Telephone (603) 897-8577 Email edaversa@rivier.edu”
      Emily Daversa is Director of Campus Ministry and Service Learning.
      “Father John Bucchino Pastor Email jbucchino@rivier.edu Location Resurrection Chapel”
      Father John Bucchino is listed on the Campus Ministry team, located at Resurrection Chapel.
    2. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Campus Ministry is staffed by a full-time director and a part-time chaplain.”
      Campus Ministry has a full-time director and a part-time chaplain.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Retreats offered to students each yearOne to three (One weekend retreat offered to all full-time students.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Programs and Events | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/programs-events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Student Retreats. We offer a weekend retreat to all current full-time students.”
      Campus Ministry offers a weekend retreat for full-time students.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Catholic student organizations and faith-formation groupsOne or two (Campus Ministry Club (the only religious group in the CampusGroups student organization list) and RCIA faith formation.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Programs and Events | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/programs-events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Campus Ministry Club meets regularly throughout the academic year and provides opportunities to serve the campus and the community.”
      A Campus Ministry Club meets regularly during the academic year.
    2. List of Groups | Rivier CampusGroupscampusgroups.rivier.edu/club_signup?group_type=54817&category_tags= · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The purpose of Campus Ministry Club is to provide its members with opportunities of service, community and faith connection.”
      Campus Ministry Club is a registered student organization.
    3. Faith Formation and RCIA | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/faith-formation-rcia · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is available to anyone interested in becoming a member of the Catholic Church.”
      Campus Ministry offers RCIA.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Single-sex residence optionsNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Overnight guest policy in residence hallsOvernight guests of the opposite sex not permitted (Overnight visitors must be of the same sex as the host (up to two, no more than three consecutive nights). Opposite-sex guests are allowed in rooms during Open Hours (Sun-Thu until midnight, Fri-Sat until 2 a.m.).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Residents may host up to two overnight visitors of the same sex.”
      Overnight visitors must be of the same sex as the host.
      “Guests must be registered to stay in the room of, and use the bathroom facilities designated for, a same-sex host.”
      Overnight guests may stay only with a same-sex host.
      “Students may entertain guests of the opposite sex in their living quarters during Open Hours.”
      Opposite-sex guests are allowed in rooms only during Open Hours.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Faith life in residence halls (hall chaplains, hall Masses, or faith-based living communities)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Office or senior officer for mission and Catholic identityNot enough information: not found in official sources.
AService and Catholic social teaching: Strong (grade A): 85 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Service and Catholic social teaching

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service or volunteer centerYes (Office of Campus Ministry and Service Learning, led by a Director of Campus Ministry and Service Learning, coordinates service.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Meet the Campus Ministry Team | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/team · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Emily Daversa Director of Campus Ministry and Service Learning Telephone (603) 897-8577 Email edaversa@rivier.edu”
      Emily Daversa is Director of Campus Ministry and Service Learning.
    2. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Director of Campus Ministry and Service Learning can help connect students with organizations offering ongoing service opportunities and coordinate additional one-time service projects throughout the academic year.”
      The Office of Campus Ministry and Service Learning coordinates ongoing and one-time service.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service-learning or community engagement in the curriculumRequired of all students (SL 100 / SERV 100 Serving the World, a one-credit course with 20 hours of community service, is required of all undergraduate students.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Service Learning | Undergraduate Programs | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/undergraduate/service-learning · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “All Undergraduate students are required to take SL 100 Serving the World, a one-credit course, prior to graduation.”
      A service-learning course is required of all undergraduates.
    2. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “SERV100: All undergraduate day students complete SERV100 during their time at Rivier. In this one-credit course, students complete 20 hours of service with a local organization and reflect on connections among direct service, Catholic Social Teaching, and academic concepts”
      The required service course connects service with Catholic social teaching.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic social teaching in the curriculum (course, minor, center, or core requirement)Part of the required core (The required SERV 100 course has students reflect on connections among direct service, Catholic Social Teaching, and academic concepts; the core also requires a Faith, Religion, and Social Justice religion course.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “SERV100: All undergraduate day students complete SERV100 during their time at Rivier. In this one-credit course, students complete 20 hours of service with a local organization and reflect on connections among direct service, Catholic Social Teaching, and academic concepts”
      The required service course connects service with Catholic social teaching.
    2. Core Curriculum | Undergraduate Programs | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/undergraduate/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Faith, Religion, and Social Justice One religion course developed with this theme at its center. Ethics, Values, and Moral Choices One Philosophy course developed with this theme at its center.”
      The common core requires one religion course on faith, religion, and social justice and one philosophy course on ethics.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Pro-life engagement (student pro-life group, support for pregnant and parenting students, or institutional initiatives)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Justice and solidarity programs (immersion trips, poverty, migration, or care-for-creation initiatives)Two or more (S.E.R.V.E. service immersion trips (spring break and summer), faculty-led cultural and service immersion trips through the Office of Global Engagement (e.g. volunteering at a refugee center in Rome), and regular service at the Nashua Soup Kitchen.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Service | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/service · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Participate in the S.E.R.V.E. Program. Campus Ministry offers a unique service trip during spring break and over the summer.”
      Campus Ministry runs S.E.R.V.E. service trips during spring break and summer.
      “This year, students will be serving at the Catalina Island Conservatory in California during spring break and at the Sunset Gap Community Center in Cosby, Tennessee, during the summer.”
      The 2026-27 S.E.R.V.E. trips go to California (spring break) and Tennessee (summer).
      “Volunteer at Your Local Soup Kitchen. Rivier serves at the Nashua Soup Kitchen regularly.”
      Students serve regularly at the Nashua Soup Kitchen.
    2. Faculty-Led Trips | Global Engagement | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/global-engagement/faculty-led-trips · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Rome. This cultural and service immersion trip had students exploring the culture and history of The Eternal City, as well as volunteering at the Nafuma Refugee Center”
      The Office of Global Engagement runs faculty-led service immersion trips, including volunteering at a refugee center in Rome.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service explicitly rooted in the Catholic mission (run with campus ministry or the mission office, or framed by Catholic social teaching)Yes (Service is run by Campus Ministry and framed by Catholic social teaching.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Service | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/service · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Catholic social teaching calls upon each of us, as disciples, to help the poor through prayer, compassionate service, and advocacy for justice for the oppressed.”
      Campus Ministry frames its service programs with Catholic social teaching.
    2. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Campus Ministry promotes the principles of Catholic Social Teaching by providing opportunities for direct service and advocacy for the poor and marginalized.”
      Campus Ministry's service programs promote Catholic social teaching.

Grades come from the documented indicators under the published rubric. “Not enough information” does not mean the school lacks it.

Strengths

  • All undergraduates take a one-credit service-learning course with 20 hours of service that connects service with Catholic social teaching.
    Sources (2)
    1. Service Learning | Undergraduate Programs | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/undergraduate/service-learning · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “All Undergraduate students are required to take SL 100 Serving the World, a one-credit course, prior to graduation.”
      A service-learning course is required of all undergraduates.
    2. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “SERV100: All undergraduate day students complete SERV100 during their time at Rivier. In this one-credit course, students complete 20 hours of service with a local organization and reflect on connections among direct service, Catholic Social Teaching, and academic concepts”
      The required service course connects service with Catholic social teaching.
  • The core curriculum requires two religion courses and one philosophy course, and its organizing questions are described as central to the faith heritage, intellectual tradition, and social teachings of the Catholic Church.
    Sources (1)
    1. Core Curriculum | Undergraduate Programs | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/undergraduate/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “FYS REL 115 God and the Created Order Credits: 3”
      The common core includes the first-year religion course God and the Created Order.
      “Faith, Religion, and Social Justice One religion course developed with this theme at its center. Ethics, Values, and Moral Choices One Philosophy course developed with this theme at its center.”
      The common core requires one religion course on faith, religion, and social justice and one philosophy course on ethics.
      “These questions are central to the faith heritage, intellectual tradition, and social teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.”
      The core curriculum's organizing questions are described as central to the Catholic intellectual tradition.
  • Overnight residence-hall guests must be of the same sex as their host.
    Sources (1)
    1. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Residents may host up to two overnight visitors of the same sex.”
      Overnight visitors must be of the same sex as the host.
      “Guests must be registered to stay in the room of, and use the bathroom facilities designated for, a same-sex host.”
      Overnight guests may stay only with a same-sex host.
  • Campus Ministry runs S.E.R.V.E. service trips during spring break and summer and regular local service.
    Sources (1)
    1. Service | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/service · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Participate in the S.E.R.V.E. Program. Campus Ministry offers a unique service trip during spring break and over the summer.”
      Campus Ministry runs S.E.R.V.E. service trips during spring break and summer.
      “Volunteer at Your Local Soup Kitchen. Rivier serves at the Nashua Soup Kitchen regularly.”
      Students serve regularly at the Nashua Soup Kitchen.

Concerns

  • Daily Mass is not currently held on campus, and the fall 2026 schedule lists Sunday Mass on five Sundays rather than every week.
    Sources (2)
    1. Programs and Events | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/programs-events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “While daily mass is not held at Resurrection Chapel currently, opportunities for worship are available in our local community.”
      Daily Mass is not currently held on campus.
    2. Mass Schedule | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/mass-schedule · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Sunday, September 20 | 11 a.m. | Sunday, September 27 – Alumni Mass | 10 a.m. | Sunday, October 18 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, November 8 | 12 p.m. | Sunday, December 6 – Final Mass of the semester | 12 p.m. |”
      The Fall 2026 schedule lists five Sunday Masses: Sept. 20 at 11 AM, Sept. 27 (Alumni Mass) at 10 AM, and Oct. 18, Nov. 8, and Dec. 6 at 12 PM.
  • The campus ministry chaplain is part-time.
    Sources (1)
    1. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Campus Ministry is staffed by a full-time director and a part-time chaplain.”
      Campus Ministry has a full-time director and a part-time chaplain.
  • No theology or religious studies major is offered; religious studies is available only as a focus within the Liberal Studies degree.
    Sources (2)
    1. Liberal Studies at Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/all-programs/liberal-studies · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “substantial study in a humanities discipline of your choice, such as art history, history, language, literature, philosophy, or religious studies.”
      Religious studies is available as a focus within the Liberal Studies degree.
    2. Liberal Studies program sheet 2026 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/academics/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2026/08/UGProgSheet-LiberalStudies-2026.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Six courses, or 18 credits, in one discipline (History, Language, Literature, Philosophy, Religious Studies).”
      The Liberal Studies B.A. humanities focus may be in religious studies (six courses).
  • Campus Ministry lists one student retreat and one Catholic student club.
    Sources (2)
    1. Programs and Events | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/programs-events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Student Retreats. We offer a weekend retreat to all current full-time students.”
      Campus Ministry offers a weekend retreat for full-time students.
    2. List of Groups | Rivier CampusGroupscampusgroups.rivier.edu/club_signup?group_type=54817&category_tags= · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The purpose of Campus Ministry Club is to provide its members with opportunities of service, community and faith connection.”
      Campus Ministry Club is a registered student organization.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Campus ministry home

Rivier University Campus Ministry (Dion Center)

  • Address: 420 South Main Street, Nashua, NH 03060
  • Location: On campus
  • Facilities: office, lending library of books and devotionals

View on map ↗

Source: rivier.edu, verified Oct. 8, 2026, rivier.edu, verified Oct. 8, 2026, rivier.edu, verified Oct. 8, 2026

Catholic clubs and student life

13 groups and regular activities · 9 on campus, 4 off campus

Retreats 1

  • Student weekend retreatOff campus
    Weekend retreat offered to all current full-time students.
    rivier.edu

Service 5

  • S.E.R.V.E. ProgramOff campus
    Spring break and summer
    Campus Ministry service trips; in 2026-27 to the Catalina Island Conservatory in California and the Sunset Gap Community Center in Cosby, Tennessee.
    rivier.edu, rivier.edu
  • Nashua Soup KitchenOff campus
    Regularly
    Volunteer service at the Nashua Soup Kitchen; sign up through Campus Ministry.
    rivier.edu
  • First-Year Day of ServiceOff campus
    First-year students serve a local organization with their Student Success course.
    rivier.edu
  • Thanksgiving Basket ProjectOn campus
    November
    Annual food drive collecting Thanksgiving meals, ending with an interfaith prayer service.
    rivier.edu
  • Toy Drive for Nashua PALOn campus
    December
    Collection of toys and games for families served by Nashua PAL.
    rivier.edu

Faith formation 2

  • RCIAOn campus
    Preparation for those interested in becoming Catholic or completing the sacraments of initiation.
    rivier.edu
  • Spiritual directionOn campus
    By appointment
    Campus Ministry staff meet with students for ongoing spiritual direction.
    rivier.edu

Clubs and groups 1

  • Campus Ministry ClubOn campus
    Meets regularly during the academic year
    Registered student organization offering service, community, and faith connection.
    rivier.edu, campusgroups.rivier.edu

Liturgy and prayer 3

  • Liturgical MinistryOn campus
    Students serve as lectors, Eucharistic ministers, and greeters at Sunday and special Masses.
    rivier.edu
  • Mass of the Holy SpiritOn campus
    Start of the academic year
    Catholic liturgy asking God's blessing on the academic year.
    rivier.edu
  • Ecumenical prayer servicesOn campus
    Periodically during the school year
    Community prayer services held through the year.
    rivier.edu

Social life 1

  • Sunday Mass socialOn campus
    After scheduled Sunday Masses
    Social with light refreshments after Sunday Mass in Resurrection Chapel; family, friends, and community members are welcome.
    rivier.edu, rivier.edu

Everything listed is published by the school, its campus ministry, or the parish. Ask the campus minister what’s happening this semester.

Campus ministry

Sources (4)
  1. Campus Ministry | Student Life | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Guided by Rivier’s Roman Catholic tradition and core mission of educating the whole person, Campus Ministry equips students to lead lives of deeper meaning and purpose.”
    Campus Ministry is rooted in the university's Catholic tradition.
    “Campus Ministry Telephone (603) 897-8577 Email campusministry@rivier.edu Location Dion Center”
    The Campus Ministry office is in the Dion Center; phone and email are published.
    “420 South Main Street Nashua, NH 03060”
    The campus address is 420 South Main Street, Nashua, NH 03060.
  2. Meet the Campus Ministry Team | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/team · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Emily Daversa Director of Campus Ministry and Service Learning Telephone (603) 897-8577 Email edaversa@rivier.edu”
    Emily Daversa is Director of Campus Ministry and Service Learning.
  3. Student Handbook 2026-2027 | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/09/Student-Handbook-2026-2027.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Campus Ministry is staffed by a full-time director and a part-time chaplain.”
    Campus Ministry has a full-time director and a part-time chaplain.
  4. Faith Formation and RCIA | Campus Ministry | Rivier Universityrivier.edu/student-life/ministry/faith-formation-rcia · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “You are welcome to check out a book from the Campus Ministry office at any time.”
    The Campus Ministry office lends books and other faith resources.

Reach out

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Academic Excellence

CAcademic Excellence: Mixed (grade C): 55 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.
57 of 100
From federal data, on fixed published scales.

Each measure counts for the share shown.

  • Graduation rate 35% of scoreThis measure counts for 35% of the Academic Excellence score.52%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.76%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.SAT 1,070
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.14 to 1
  • Instructional spending per student 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.$7,547

Bars show points on each measure’s scale. How Academic Excellence is computed.

Source: College Scorecard (College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026))

Cost and value

Federal data, shown separately. Cost, debt, and earnings are never part of any grade.

Undergraduate students
Fall enrollment (IPEDS)
1,335
Total students2,879
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$28,082
Cost of attendance (per year)$53,499
Median federal debt at graduation$26,956
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
52%
First-year retention76%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$52,248
Admission rate83%
Students receiving Pell grants28%
Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT1070
SAT reading & writing545–590
SAT math510–585
ACT composite—
Test policyConsidered but not required

Value index: 35 / 100 (how it’s computed)

Sources: College Scorecard · IPEDS College Navigator · Net price calculator
College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026); IPEDS 2024-25 directory and institutional characteristics; fall 2023 enrollment.

Local Church

Diocese of Manchester

The Most Reverend Peter A. Libasci, Bishop of Manchester

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Cathedral: St. Joseph Cathedral

Source: catholicnh.org, verified Oct. 7, 2026.

Diocese determined from the county, using the diocese’s county list (Wikipedia). Confirm with the diocese.

About this school’s data

  • IPEDS unit ID 183211
  • Carnegie classification: Master's university (medium programs)
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (U.S. Department of Education DAPIP)
  • Religious affiliation (IPEDS): Roman Catholic
  • Report an error or a newer source
  • Respond as this school

Questions families ask

Is Rivier University a Catholic college?
Yes. Rivier University is a Catholic college in the Diocese of Manchester. Its sponsor is Sisters of the Presentation of Mary.
What is Rivier University’s Compass Score?
62 out of 100 (grade C). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.
Where is Mass celebrated at Rivier University?
Mass is listed at Resurrection Chapel. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.

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