Online and On-Campus Colleges in RHODE ISLAND

Rhode Island is the smallest state in the U.S., but the educational opportunities are many and diverse. From the hallowed halls of the Ivy League to regional public institutions, the colleges and universities in the Ocean State offer something for just about everyone.

We wanted to help students sort out which schools were the best traditional and online colleges in Rhode Island, so we gathered data on each institution and did a detailed analysis. We also provided some information on job market projections for regional graduates, financial aid options exclusive to Rhode Island residents and the most popular degree programs for in-state students.

If you attend the Community College of Rhode Island, you may be able to neatly transfer your associate degree credits into a bachelor's program at one of the state's four-year schools. We've included a link to CCRI's transfer agreements at the bottom of the page, and you can check with your advisor for more details.

Best 4-Year Colleges in Rhode Island

Though the smallest state by land mass, this state offers diverse education options. Rhode Island colleges include public schools, private institutions and even an Ivy League university. To rank the best schools in Rhode Island, we analyzed them for 12 factors including tuition, online courses and graduation rates. When you're done here, be sure to read about the best Rhode Island community colleges, too. 

Methodology
1Roger Williams University+
Admission Rate
86%
Graduation Rate
69.66%
Tuition & Fees
?In-State Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
$34,522
Avg. Amount of Aid Per Student
$15,808
Number of Online Programs
21

Roger Williams University is not only one of the best universities in Rhode Island but also one of the state's top online colleges. It offers more than a dozen online degree programs as well as hybrid options that combine traditional class instruction with online courses.

Named after the 17th Century leader Roger Williams, the school continues to embrace his legacy of promoting freedom of conscience and social justice. RWU opened its doors in 1956 as a junior college but now offers undergraduate, graduate and law degrees.

Affordability is one reason Roger Williams University makes the list of top universities in Rhode Island. Since 2012, it has offered a tuition guarantee to its incoming undergraduates and that was expanded to the RWU School of Law in 2014.

Additional Info
2University of Rhode Island+
Admission Rate
69%
Graduation Rate
67.3%
Tuition & Fees
?In-State Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
$14,138
Avg. Amount of Aid Per Student
$10,243
Number of Online Programs
7

Among Rhode Island universities, the University of Rhode Island is among the biggest and the best. However, its size is still relatively small compared to major universities in other states. Approximately 14,700 students are enrolled in the undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs at URI.

The university was founded in 1888 as Rhode Island's agricultural school and has since grown into the state's flagship research institution. The University of Rhode Island offers dozens of majors across 10 colleges and schools including a College of Business and a Graduate School of Oceanography.

URI is notable among Rhode Island schools for its affordable tuition, large degree catalog and access to online classes. The institution offers numerous internship, experiential learning and study abroad opportunities. It has its campus in Kingston.

Additional Info
3Providence College+
Admission Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
85.97%
Tuition & Fees
?In-State Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
$50,528
Avg. Amount of Aid Per Student
$27,336
Number of Online Programs
0

Providence College is another of the best colleges in Rhode Island. The accredited institution features a low student-faculty ratio, small class sizes and amble opportunities to participate in research projects. It also has strong graduation and placement rates.

As a Catholic institution, Providence College was founded in 1917 by the Diocese of Providence and the Dominican Friars of the Province of St. Joseph. The school maintains its Catholic and Dominican identity today but welcomes students of any faith background.

The college includes four schools, and all undergraduate students participate in a core curriculum designed to promote self-reflection, critical thinking and effective communication. Nearly 5,000 students are enrolled in undergraduate, graduate and continuing education programs at Providence College. The school has its campus in Providence.

Additional Info
4Johnson & Wales University-Providence+
Admission Rate
91%
Graduation Rate
66.84%
Tuition & Fees
?In-State Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
$32,441
Avg. Amount of Aid Per Student
$17,079
Number of Online Programs
0

The Providence campus of Johnson & Wales University is part of a national system that includes four traditional locations in addition to an online college. The university strives to provide an industry-focused education that offers plenty of opportunity for hands-on learning.

JWU Providence was founded in 1914 and says it has been a driving force in recent decades to create jobs and spur business in the city and state. The university has nine academic units that offer degree programs ranging from interdisciplinary majors to culinary arts to physician assistant studies.

Johnson & Wales University - Providence ranks high for affordability and flexibility. Its average net price and robust online programs helped it land among the top colleges in Rhode Island.

Additional Info
5Brown University+
Admission Rate
8%
Graduation Rate
95.04%
Tuition & Fees
?In-State Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
$55,466
Avg. Amount of Aid Per Student
$42,652
Number of Online Programs
0

Known as an Ivy League institution, Brown University makes the list of best schools in Rhode Island. The university has strong graduation and retention rates as well as generous financial aid. What's more, Brown has an impressive catalog of degree programs with hundreds of educational options.

The Providence-based school was founded by a group of Baptist leaders in 1764. Today, Brown University has a mission of serving the community, nation and world by discovering and preserving knowledge.

Brown University is highly selective, admitting only a small portion of its applicants. Those enrolled get access to a unique educational experience in which undergraduates design personalized programs of study that can span multiple fields. The Graduate School offers dozens of doctoral and master's degrees in engineering, public health, medicine and more.

Additional Info
6Bryant University+
Admission Rate
76%
Graduation Rate
80.52%
Tuition & Fees
?In-State Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
$43,973
Avg. Amount of Aid Per Student
$20,074
Number of Online Programs
0

At Bryant University, the school hopes to inspire students to excel. As one of the top universities in Rhode Island, Bryant can boast of some impressive numbers too.

For instance, 99 percent of its Class of 2017 were employed or in graduate school within six months of receiving their degree. What's more, students tend to graduate with manageable student debt that they are able to pay off quickly. Bryant University also has strong graduation and retention rates.

Founded in 1863, Bryant University was originally created to provide business education. It has since evolved to take an integrated approach to the field and allows students to pair a business major with a liberal arts minor. The university has its campus in Smithfield.

Additional Info
7Rhode Island College+
Admission Rate
73%
Graduation Rate
50%
Tuition & Fees
?In-State Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
$8,929
Avg. Amount of Aid Per Student
$6,013
Number of Online Programs
0

As an accredited school, Rhode Island College enrolls about 9,000 students each year. Often called RIC, the college is known as one of the most affordable Rhode Island schools.

Rhode Island College was founded in 1854 as the state's first public institution of higher education. It has grown to offer more than 120 undergraduate and graduate programs that cover fields such as nursing, business, education, social work and the fine arts. There is also an option for students to create an individualized major.

Small class sizes and a low student-faculty ratio are also among the factors that help make RIC one of the top colleges in Rhode Island. The school has a well-established internship program and gives undergraduates the opportunity to participate in research.

Additional Info
8Rhode Island School of Design+
Admission Rate
24%
Graduation Rate
89.15%
Tuition & Fees
?In-State Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
$50,960
Avg. Amount of Aid Per Student
$26,057
Number of Online Programs
0

Rhode Island School of Design has the distinction of being one of the first art and design schools in the nation. It was founded in 1877 and is a private, nonprofit institution.

Nearly 2,500 students from around the globe study at the school, known as RISD. They can select from bachelor's and master's degrees in field such as art education, design, architecture and the fine arts. As a selective school, only about a third of those who apply to the Rhode Island School of Design are admitted.

RISD says 95 percent of its incoming students return the next year. That type of retention rate, along with a similarly strong graduation rate, help make RISD one of the best schools in Rhode Island.

Additional Info
Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2018-19, National Center for Education Statistics, http://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Most Popular Degree Programs in Rhode Island

Whether you're hoping to pick a major that's common among students in your state or stay away from the most crowded parts of the academic landscape, it can help to know which study plans are the most popular. Here's a list of the top degree programs by enrollment in Rhode Island.

In-Demand Careers in Rhode Island

Certain career fields are expected to see significantly more growth than others in the coming years, according to employment projections by state and national statistical agencies. Check out this rundown of top careers in the state and see if one matches up with the degree you're planning to pursue.

Career TitleProjected Job GrowthTotal EmploymentAnnual Salary
Statisticians45.5%40$97,410
Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators35.4%240$39,910
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers31.8%1,430$52,270
Riggers28.8%140$57,830
Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers28.4%2,770$108,020
Helpers--Production Workers26.7%1,510$28,320
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers23.5%90$54,410
Actuaries23.3%80$111,320
Sheet Metal Workers22.9%620$52,570
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters21.8%1,340$55,170
Carpenters20.7%2,630$52,670
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists20.5%2,490$74,910
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers20.5%60$29,330
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary20.2%370$136,590
Home Health and Personal Care Aides20.2%7,310$29,490
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians20.1%620$37,150
Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters19.4%-$35,350
Physician Assistants18.7%230-
Helpers--Carpenters18.7%240$34,230
Machinists18.6%1,180$47,810
Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers18.4%320$66,420
Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary18.1%300$80,220
Fast Food and Counter Workers18%11,860$25,400
Production Workers, All Other17.9%150$32,420
Financial Managers17.2%2,480$161,880
Nurse Practitioners16.6%700$115,310
Audio and Video Technicians16.4%170$43,850
Structural Iron and Steel Workers16.2%440$74,990
Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks15.6%920$27,570
Industrial Engineers15.4%910$101,840
Source: 2019 Occupational Employment Statistics and 2018-28 Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov.

Financial Aid and Scholarships in Rhode Island

Rhode Island residents can take advantage of several exclusive state-funded aid programs, such as the RI Promise program, which pays tuition and fees for four semesters of full-time study for high school graduates at participating state institutions, regardless of family income. The State Tuition Assistance Program (STAP) pays up to five courses worth of tuition per semester for members of the Rhode Island National Guard enrolled at three RI state institutions. And the Paul Sherlock Scholarship awards aid to qualifying Rhode Island residents whose expected family contribution (EFC) is calculated to be below $12,800.

 
Rhode Island State Grant
Applicant must be a Rhode Island resident, a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, demonstrate financial need, and file the FAFSA. Applicant must be enrolled at least part time in a degree or certificate program.
More

MAX. AWARD AMOUNT

$1,400

APPLICATION DEADLINE

1-Mar

RENEWAL CRITERIA

Recipient must maintain satisfactory academic progress, financial need, and residency to retain scholarship.

 
Academic Promise Scholarship
Applicant must be a high school senior, a Rhode Island resident, a U.S. Citizen or eligible non-citizen, and be able to demonstrate academic merit and financial need. Must file the FAFSA and take either the SAT or ACT test in order to apply.
More

MAX. AWARD AMOUNT

$2,500

APPLICATION DEADLINE

1-Mar

RENEWAL CRITERIA

Recipient must attend school on a full-time basis and meet GPA requirements for renewal.

 
Patty & Melvin Alperin First Generation Scholarship
Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited nonprofit post-secondary institution offering either a two-year associate or a four-year college degree.
More

MAX. AWARD AMOUNT

$1,000

APPLICATION DEADLINE

28-Apr

 

 

 
Frederick J. Benson Block Island Scholarship

MAX. AWARD AMOUNT

$1,500

APPLICATION DEADLINE

2-Jun

 

 

Source: Scholarship directory data is copyrighted material which is reproduced on this website by permission of CollegeXpress, a division of Carnegie Dartlet. Copyright © 2024 by CollegeXpress.

Additional Resources

Article Sources
Methodology

To get our list of the best colleges, we ranked 1,383 4-year colleges and universities in the U.S. Each school was scored on a 100-point scale, using the following data points and the weights specified. In order to be included in the ranking, schools had to report data for each of the following data points:

  • The in-state tuition and fees for full-time undergraduates, National Center for Education Statistics, 2016-17
  • The average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduate students as a percentage of in-state tuition and fees, National Center for Education Statistics, 2015-16
  • Percent of full-time first-time undergraduates awarded any financial aid, National Center for Education Statistics, 2015-16
  • Median debt of graduates, College Scorecard, 2015-16
  • 3-year student loan repayment rate of graduates, College Scorecard, 2015-16
  • No. of degree and certificate programs offered on campus, National Center for Education Statistics, 2015-16
  • No. of degree and certificate programs offered via distance education, National Center for Education Statistics, 2015-16
  • Percent of students enrolled in any distance education classes, National Center for Education Statistics, Fall 2016
  • Full-time student retention rate, National Center for Education Statistics, Fall 2016
  • Graduation rate within six years, National Center for Education Statistics, 2016-17
  • Percent of students working and not enrolled 6 years after entry, College Scorecard, 2013-14
  • Flexibility and student services, based on whether the school offers the following services, National Center for Education Statistics, 2016-17
    • Dual credit
    • Credit for life experience
    • Advanced Placement credit
    • Programs of study that can be completed entirely on weekends or in the evening
    • Remedial services
    • Academic and career counseling
    • Job placement services for graduates
    • Guaranteed tuition plan
    • Tuition payment plan
    • Any other alternative tuition plan

Note:Tuition prices are based on data for the 2016-17 academic year reported to the National Center for Education Statistics. The actual cost of tuition may vary.
All of the National Center for Education Statistics data came from IPEDS:
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2016-17, National Center for Education Statistics, http://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/
Most Recent Cohorts (All Data Elements): 2015-16, College Scorecard, U.S. Department of Education, https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/data/

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Article Sources
  • RI Promise, Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner, accessed May 13, 2017, https://www.riopc.edu/page/ri_promise/
  • Army National Guard Benefits, Rhode Island Army National Guard, accessed May 13, 2017, http://www.riarmynationalguard.com/free-college/
  • Paul Sherlock Scholarship, Rhode Island Student Loan Authority, accessed May 13, 2017, https://www.risla.com/paul-sherlock-scholarship
  • Who We Are, Roger Williams University, Accessed May 2018, https://www.rwu.edu/who-we-are
  • Roger Williams University, Accessed May 2018, https://www.rwu.edu/
  • About the University, University of Rhode Island, Accessed May 2018, https://web.uri.edu/about/
  • Fast Facts & Statistics, Providence University, Accessed May 2018, https://about.providence.edu/fast-facts/
  • History, Providence University, Accessed May 2018, https://about.providence.edu/mission/history/
  • Colleges Providence, Johnson & Wales University, Accessed May 2018, https://www.jwu.edu/campuses/providence/colleges/index.html
  • About JWU Providence, Johnson & Wales University, Accessed May 2018, https://www.jwu.edu/campuses/providence/about-jwu-providence/index.html
  • Brown gives students the freedom to direct their education, Brown University, Accessed May 2018, https://www.brown.edu/academics
  • Welcome to Brown, Brown University, Accessed May 2018, https://www.brown.edu/about
  • Bryant University, Accessed May 2018, https://www.bryant.edu/
  • At a Glance, Bryant University, Accessed May 2018, https://www.bryant.edu/about/at-a-glance/
  • RIC Facts, Rhode Island College, Accessed May 2018, http://www.ric.edu/admissions/Pages/RIC-Facts.aspx
  • About RISD, Rhode Island School of Design, Accessed May 2018, https://www.risd.edu/about/
  • Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2016-17, National Center for Education Statistics, http://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/
  • Most Recent Cohorts (All Data Elements): 2016-17, College Scorecard, U.S. Department of Education, https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/data/
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