Who should attend River University?
River University is designed for any undergraduate student with an interest in the environment.
Perhaps you are already studying an environmental field, and want to add real-world experience to your resume. Perhaps you dropped a course or changed majors and need to pick up additional undergraduate credits to graduate on time. Perhaps you want to bolster your application to a four-year institution with Clarkson University credits and a unique experience.
You can broaden your knowledge and deepen your practical experience with River University’s interdisciplinary and hands-on approach, combined with expert, world-recognized faculty in an immersive program with lots of individual attention. Coursework and Faculty
Can I transfer these credits to my current program?
Most likely, yes. While transferability is determined by your primary academic institution, the nine credits you will earn in River University will be transcripted by Clarkson University, a fully accredited research university.
What are the housing and dining arrangements?
If you choose the residential option, you will enjoy safe, high-quality, modern campus dormitory housing and parking at a nearby college. Double (and a few single) occupancy rooms are available with many campus amenities. All meals for the entire program are included in the residential and commuter dining fee. Program transportation is provided for residential students and group trips.
What will we be doing on the Clearwater?
River University includes five days on the Clearwater. During the first week, you and your classmates will spend a day learning to sail the sloop as a team with an overview of each of the three courses. Halfway through the program, we’ll take a three-day sail on the Hudson with overnight camping and experiential coursework. During the last week, we’ll sail one last time for course wrap-up, with awards and music.
Can I work at a summer job while attending River University?
Students in River University will earn nine credits in four weeks. The intensive interdisciplinary program includes morning and afternoon classes, plus evening lectures during the week, with specials lectures, field trips and/or events on weekends, in addition to personal study time. The immersive nature of the River University experience is best experienced free of other obligations.
I live about an hour away. Can I still commute?
We recommend that students who live more than a 30 minute drive from Beacon choose the residential option if at all possible, as you will be involved in program activities from 8 am to 8 pm most every day.
Are exceptional high school students eligible to participate?
The academic program and time commitment is intensive, and student success is our primary objective. Please contact us to discuss your specific situation.
What kind of financial aid is available?
There are a limited number of Beacon Institute Trustee Awards of up to $1,000 available to qualified students. If you wish to be considered for an award, please apply early and note the request in your application. Awardees will be notified in late April.
