Why choose graduate education at Rider

The College of Education and Human Services offers exceptional graduate degrees and certificates to transform educators into successful leaders. We provide you with a dynamic, innovative and relevant education to fit your career goals.

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Our master's degrees

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Bierenbaum Fisher Hall

Our education certificates and endorsements

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Principal Certification

For experienced teachers who have completed a master’s degree and hold New Jersey certification as a supervisor. Complete the preparatory requirements to obtain school leadership positions as directors, assistant principals, or principals.

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Teacher of Students with Disabilities Certificate

This online certification program includes the 21 credits required by the State of New Jersey for endorsement as a Teacher of Students with Disabilities. Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). For candidates who already possess an NJ initial teacher certificate.

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Teacher Leadership Professional Development Certificate

Designed for experienced and fully-certified educators and other related instructional personnel to gain the necessary skills and professional knowledge to promote a culture of achievement and take on greater responsibility in their classrooms, schools and districts.

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Reading Specialist Endorsement

Rider’s reading specialist endorsement teaches educators research-based strategies to assess and support the literacy development of all children. Please note the New Jersey Department of Education has proposed changes to the Reading Specialist certification requirements. If these changes are approved, students in the Reading Specialist program may need to complete the program and apply to the NJ Department of Education for the Reading Specialist endorsement by August 31, 2025. If you have any questions, contact your academic advisor.

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Supervisor of Instruction Endorsement

For experienced and fully-certified teachers who currently hold a master’s degree. Gain the necessary skills and professional knowledge to become supervisors in a school system.

Claire Corliss
Rider educated most of the leaders I work with, and I knew I would get a rigorous and respected preparation for leadership."
Claire Corliss ’12, ’24
Ed.S. in school psychology and M.A. in educational leadership
Read her story
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Benefits of pursuing graduate-level education

What you’ll get:

  • Increased employability
  • Improvement in salary and promotion potential upon degree completion
  • Enhanced analytical, communication and technology skills
  • Ability to take on more responsibility within your school or school district
  • Confidence in your strategic leadership capabilities
  • Access to a strong and diverse network of faculty, colleagues and alumni
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Tuition benefits for state employees

Rider University is proud to partner with The State of New Jersey and give back to educators by offering a tuition discount and additional benefits to eligible employees, as well as their immediate family members under the age of 24, for undergraduate or graduate study. Other partners include Trenton Public Schools, Freehold Borough Schools, Hopewell Valley Regional School District and Ewing Public Schools. 

Start your journey

At Rider, no one rides alone. We will be with you every step of the way. So get in touch! We can’t wait to hear from you.