Rhode Island Universities Ranked: The Best Colleges and Universities in Rhode Island

Brown University is a private research university in Providence. It offers its 9,948 students bachelor's, postbaccalaureate certificates, master's, and doctorate programs in a broad range of fields. As a major research university, it encourages students to be highly creative thinkers, problem solvers, and entrepreneurial risk-takers.

Brown University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Providence
• Student Population: 9,948
• Acceptance Rate: 8%
• Graduation Rate: 96%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $78,943
• US News National Ranking: #14
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #6

Best Brown University Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Biology. This program at Brown University studies the science of life and living matter. Students can choose to specialize in fields of study like cell and molecular biology, physiology, and organismal biology.
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This field of study at Brown University trains students in theoretical and practical aspects of computer science. It also dives into artificial intelligence, programming languages, and mobile computing.
• Bachelor of Science in Geological Science. This four-year bachelor's degree program at Brown University engages students in a comprehensive study of the earth and its planetary interiors. It attracts many double-concentration students who want to combine geology with economics, law, business, or journalism.
• Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics. The linguistics program covers the primary aspects of the language system, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. Students can choose a Bachelor of Science in Linguistics should they wish to pursue a more technical or computational area of linguistics.
• Masters of Arts in Design Engineering. The university’s design engineering program encourages research skills, creative skills, and analytical reasoning. This skillset, along with faculty and engineering practitioners, gives students real-world experience.

Providence College is a private Catholic university with over 4,000 students. The school has about 4,821 students enrolled in its undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Notable alumni include ESPN sports analyst Doris Burke, Brett Epstein, actor and playwright, and the youngest Massachusetts state senator, Benjamin Downing.

Providence College Overview

• Campus Location(s): Providence
• Student Population: 4,821
• Acceptance Rate: 54%
• Graduation Rate: 89%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $69,532
• US News National Ranking: #1 (Regional Universities North)
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #219

Best Providence College Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Marketing. This bachelor's degree program trains students with the needed qualitative and quantitative skills in marketing while also developing their communicative and leadership skills. 
• Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. This bachelor's degree program allows students to develop a deep understanding of the rationale behind the accounting field. It teaches students to apply this knowledge to some emerging real-world situations.
• Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics. This bachelor's degree program at Providence College covers core areas of mathematics like discrete mathematics, the foundation of higher mathematics, biostatistics, and the history of mathematics.
• Master of Education in Urban Teaching. This master's degree program at Providence College teaches students the major areas of urban teaching, such as successful urban education, culturally competent teaching, language, literacy, and culture. 
• Master of Science in Business Analytics. This master’s degree program has a part-time and a full-time option. Part-time students can complete the 30-credit-hour program in two years, while full-time students take a year to complete it. Students learn how to use business analytics tools, including programming languages like R, Python, SQL, and Tableau.

Rhode Island School of Design is a private art and design college in Providence. The school has 2,227 students enrolled in bachelor’s, master’s, and dual degree programs. The school’s museum is among the biggest college art museums in the United States. 

Rhode Island School of Design Overview

• Campus Location(s): Providence
• Student Population: 2,227
• Acceptance Rate: 27%
• Graduation Rate: 86%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $58,131
• US News National Ranking: N/A
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #135

Best Rhode Island School of Design Programs

• Bachelor of Architecture. This is an internationally recognized five-year degree program that prepares students for a career in architecture. The program equips students to use critical thinking techniques to apply design solutions. 
• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. This four-year undergraduate program gives students who want to become graphic designers a thorough understanding of design theories, principles of communication, and some problem-solving strategies. 
• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography. This Rhode Island School of Design program teaches students the history of photography, darkroom techniques, film and image scanning, and camera formats. 
• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Furniture Designing. This four-year degree program exposes students to a variety of professional and research practices with modernized and sophisticated equipment in furniture design. 
• Master of Industrial Design. This graduate program deals with the study of design by teaching students to better understand human and environmental issues. This master's degree program runs for two years.

Bryant University established in 1863, is located in Smithfield. The school has a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio and is on a mission to inspire innovative leaders. The school gives students a global perspective while combining business with the arts and sciences. 

Bryant University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Smithfield 
• Student Population: 3,674
• Acceptance Rate: 76%
• Graduation Rate: 84%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $91,105
• US News National Ranking: #14
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #227

Best Bryant University Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This bachelor's degree program covers the general principles of business administration and areas of specialization in digital marketing, accounting, and financial services. 
• Bachelor of Science in Applied Economics. This bachelor's degree program equips students with a deep understanding of complex areas of modern society and provides solutions to some pressing economic problems. Students learn to think logically and analyze a range of issues applied to business and government. 
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology. This bachelor's degree program at Providence University focuses on psychology's theoretical, practical, and applied areas. Students research and investigate psychological principles in clinical settings, sports, neuroscience, education, and business. 
• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. This bachelor's degree program gives students a thorough understanding of the basics of sociology and its application to solving complex issues in society.
• Bachelor of Science in Health Science. This bachelor's degree program in health science gives students an understanding of behavioral, environmental, and socioeconomic factors that may impact human health. 

Salve Regina University is a private university in Newport. The university encourages hands-on learning and internship experiences. Ninety-eight percent of Salve Regina University’s graduates either continue their education or find employment within six months of graduating. 

Salve Regina University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Newport 
• Student Population: 2,771
• Acceptance Rate: 75%
• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $68,304
• US News National Ranking: #23 (Regional Universities North)
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #401-500

Best Salve Regina University Programs

• Online Master of Science in Innovation and Strategic Management. This master's degree program at Salve Regina University enables students to recognize, evaluate, and manage business possibilities in their businesses or other organizations. The school encourages students to adopt an attitude of social responsibility in leadership. 
• Online Master of Business Administration. This program’s online curriculum improves students’ knowledge and understanding of entrepreneurship, finance, organizational behavior, and marketing and strategic management.
• Masters of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling. This 48-credit online Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling equips students for jobs in mental health institutions, clinics, prisons, rehabilitation programs, and university counseling centers.
• Master of Science in Nursing. This is an online 48-credit hour program requiring 750 clinical hours to graduate. The program will ground students ethically and guide them toward complete competence in providing healthcare. 
• Online PhD in International Relations. This online PhD program takes four years to complete. Students must specialize their research in history and technology, political philosophy, or ethics in international affairs. 

The University of Rhode Island is a public land-grant research university. It is the largest university in Rhode Island, with a student population of over 17,000. Located in Kingston, it is a multi-campus university comprising 320 buildings on four campuses.

University of Rhode Island Overview

• Campus Location(s): Kingston, Narragansett, Providence, West Greenwich 
• Student Population: 17,649
• Acceptance Rate: 76%
• Graduation Rate: 70%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $66,484
• US News National Ranking: #162
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #387

Best University of Rhode Island Programs

• Graduate Certificate in Aquaculture and Fisheries. This graduate certificate program in aquaculture and fisheries provides students with biological and environmental knowledge alongside advanced training in sustainable food systems, aquatic organisms' diseases, and science and technology principles. 
• Master of Science in Accounting. This master's degree program at the University of Rhode Island prepares students to deal with the complicated and competitive corporate world we live in today. Its full-time program takes about a year to complete, while its part-time program might take about two years.
• Master of Science in Chemistry Engineering. This master's degree program in chemistry engineering engages students in qualitative research. Students can specialize and learn environmental engineering, bio-nanotechnology, and material engineering.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Civil and Environmental Engineering. This online or in-person PhD degree program takes three to four years. Students can specialize in geotechnical, structural, environmental, or transportation engineering. 
• Master of Arts in Communication Studies. Part-time students can complete this program in three to five years, while full-time students will complete it in two years. Specializations include public discourse, interpersonal and organizational communication, and media studies.

Roger Williams University is a private university located in Bristol. The school offers associate, bachelor, and master's degree programs and a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1. The campus stretches over 143 acres and overlooks the beautiful Mount Hope Bay. 

Roger Williams University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Bristol, Providence
• Student Population: 4,702
• Acceptance Rate: 86%
• Graduation Rate: 70%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $64,743
• US News National Ranking: #27 (Regional Universities North)
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #401-500

Best Roger Williams University Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This computer science program equips students with intellectual and professional skills in the field of computer science. It offers a few specializations, including math, digital systems, and data science.  
• Bachelor of Science in Finance. This bachelor's degree program covers the fundamentals of business and finance and provides expertise to gain employment in a business corporation, bank, and insurance company. 
• Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics. The graduate degree program teaches students how to investigate computer-related crimes such as viruses, financial fraud, and data sabotage. 
• Master's Degree in Criminal Justice. The master's degree program mixes corrections,  policing, and procedure courses to introduce the students to the theory and practice of criminal law and the system's moral complexity.
• Master's Degree in Public Administration. Students learn how to bring diverse people together and discover solutions to societal challenges. The program covers public policy, which prepares students to work in various industries such as healthcare, fundraising, the environment, and homeland security.

Johnson & Wales University is a private university in Providence. Students enjoy a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1 and a 96.8 percent career outcomes rate. Prospective students can choose from over 80 programs and end their studies in one of the 2,100 internship programs. 

Johnson & Wales University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Providence, Charlotte
• Student Population: 5,676
• Acceptance Rate: 87%
• Graduation Rate: 63%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $41,977
• US News National Ranking: #94 (Regional Universities North)
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #>600th

Best Johnson & Wales University Programs

• Master of Science in Addiction Counseling. Students learn the needed skill in aiding the prevention of substance abuse. The 18-month program covers how to counsel those with addiction and mental health issues.
• Bachelor of Science in Advertising and Marketing Communication. Students who enroll in this program will learn how to establish excellent communication skills, understand customer behavior, and learn how to work as part of a cohesive, creative team. 
• Bachelor of Science in Digital Marketing and Social Media. This undergraduate degree program provides students with the necessary skills to create successful social and digital marketing strategies. You will also research target groups to show firms and industries how to benefit from digital marketing and social media.
• Bachelor of Science in Political Science. This bachelor's degree program at Johnson & Wales University gives students access to political figures from all levels. They share insights with students in balancing power, resources, and influence. 
• Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management. This bachelor's degree program’s curriculum trains students to work in all areas of the tourism and hospitality industry. It includes corporate management positions, managerial positions in a tropical resort, and negotiating tours to exotic locales. It also provides internship opportunities to students.

The New England Institute, located in East Greenwich, is a private institution. The institute provides hands-on learning from the students' first day. Students can explore various degree programs, including design, business, information technology, engineering, and nursing.

New England Institute of Technology Overview

• Campus Location(s): East Greenwich
• Student Population: 2,031
• Acceptance Rate: 69%
• Graduation Rate: 49%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $45,100
• US News National Ranking: N/A
• Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A

Best New England Institute of Technology Programs

• Associate of Science in Nursing. This associate degree program prepares students for both theoretical principles of nursing and the practical application held in the institution’s fully equipped laboratories. Students can work as registered nurses in hospitals, schools, and doctor’s rooms.
• Associate of Science in Health Science. This associate degree program will teach students some core scientific principles in the healthcare field. Students can further their studies in related fields like respiratory care, veterinary technology, and nursing. They can also apply for medical assistant, pharmacy technician, and surgical technologist jobs.
• Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of programming languages, implementation, and development. Students can choose between additional coursework or an off-campus work program in a partner organization in the final two terms. 
• Master of Science in Information Technology. This graduate school master’s program takes 18 months to complete. Students can choose to study online or on campus. The program teaches students to determine and resolve business issues and be able to anticipate fluctuating business needs.
• Master of Science in Cybersecurity Defense. This online graduate degree program prepares IT professionals for management positions by teaching them all essential cyber security tools. The program is also for students who want to improve their leadership and cyber security skills by developing their cyber security and networking experience.

Rhode Island College is a public college offering bachelor's, master's, and doctorate programs to over 7,000 students. Students will experience a diverse community and a school that helps develop self-confidence in addition to academic knowledge.

Rhode Island College Overview

• Campus Location(s): Providence
• Student Population: 7,072
• Acceptance Rate: 81%
• Graduation Rate: 46%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $49,249
• US News National Ranking: #119 (Regional Universities North)
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #501-600

Best Rhode Island College Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education. The nationally recognized curriculum teaches students to apply what they’ve learned practically. Graduates are eligible for a health education teaching certification at the end of this program. Students can also take a double major in health and physical education over five years.
• Bachelor of Science in Arts Education. This art program covers some core areas in the history of art, art studio, and art education classes. In addition, students will acquire valuable experience in public school learning centers. Students can earn a teacher certification at the end of the program. 
• Master of Social Work. You can complete this 62-credit master’s program in two years as a full-time student and three to four years studying part-time. Admission requirements include a 3.0 GPA in undergraduate studies and 15 credit hours of coursework in anthropology, economics, political science, psychology, and sociology.
• Doctor of Nursing Service. This doctorate program equips postgraduate students with deep research skills needed to practice at the highest level of nursing careers. PhD graduates can serve in advanced leadership and clinical roles. 
• Master of Arts in English. This graduate degree program prepares students to reflect on literature and culture at a higher level. The varied curriculum includes drama, literature, creative writing, poetry, and a master’s thesis.

1. University of Rhode Island. This university is a well-known research facility that encourages innovative thinking. It offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. The school also offers 22 certificate and non-degree programs.
2. Rhode Island College. The school provides education to a diverse community and offers arts, sciences, business, and professional programs. The college has top-notch faculty who support students in academic excellence.
3. Community College of Rhode Island. The community college has campuses in Warwick, Providence, Lincoln, and Newport County. It is the largest community college that provides high-quality education to part-time and full-time students.

1. Rhode Island College. The college has an 81 percent acceptance rate. It is known for its small classes, high-quality academics, hands-on student experience, and high value. 
2. The University of Rhode Island. This university is one of the leading research universities. It is best known for excellence in science programs, including marine biology. The school has a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio and offers over 100 majors. 
3. Community College of Rhode Island. The college has 300 full-time members of faculty. In addition to certificate programs, the school awards Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Associate of Applied Science, Associate in Technical Studies, and Associate of Fine Art degrees.

1. Providence College. Providence College offers a broad range of academic programs. These include everything from accountancy and art to languages and engineering. The school’s top five majors are finance, marketing, biology, management, and psychology.
2. Bryant University. The school is well-known for excellence in business, international marketing, and accounting. It encourages students to make significant contributions to society through its College of Business and College of Arts and Sciences.
3. Rhode Island School of Design. The design school is a private, non-profit college and one of the best art and design schools globally. It's also exceptional for providing a top-notch master’s program.

1. Roger Williams University. Roger Williams University offers an online master's degree and graduate certificate programs suitable for distance learners. Online students get the same high-quality education as students who attend courses in person.
2. University of Rhode Island. The online programs provided by this university use the same methods and curriculum as its traditional face-to-face programs. This means that students have access to cutting-edge technology, lectures, materials, and one-on-one feedback from instructors.
3. Salve Regina University. The Salve Regina University offers various online bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctorate programs in nursing, business, and international relations. US News & World Report ranks its online programs as some of the best in the country.

1. Brown University. Brown University is one of the top schools for international students. The school educates over 2,700 students from 100 countries and offers grant and scholarship programs.
2. University of Rhode Island. This university connects students from all parts of the world. It also provides international learning experiences for students. International students must pay an application fee and submit all required documents, including English proficiency test scores.
3. Providence College. International students are welcome at this college, and there are several perks, including a limited amount of need-based aids. As an international student, you can work up to 20 hours each week.

1. Brown University. This university ranked 26th in computer science. The school offers various undergraduate opportunities and master’s programs in cyber security and computer science. It also offers a PhD program with low student-to-faculty ratios.
2. Providence College. The college's computer science program is well-equipped with adequate facilities. The program incorporates high-level programming languages and math. It allows students to practice problem-solving by using algorithms. Students can choose several majors, including data processing and artificial intelligence. 
3. University of Rhode Island. The university ranked 135th in computer science. The Department of Computer Science and Statistics provides Bachelor’s Degrees in Data Science and Computer Science. It also offers an accelerated bachelor’s to master’s program.

1. University of Rhode Island. US News & World Report ranked this learning institution 45th for its Master’s Degree in Nursing. It also ranked 80th for the Doctorate in Nursing program. The program encourages cross-discipline work with world-class faculty. 
2. Rhode Island College. This public institution offers a master’s and Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Prospective students can choose to study a bachelor’s program online or on campus. The school also offers a minor in thanatology to give students an understanding of death and grief. 
3. Salve Regina University. This private learning institution also offers a Master’s in Nursing Science and a Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Its online master's program makes it particularly unique as it gives students the opportunity for a flexible study schedule.

1. Brown University. This University is one of the world's leading research institutions. It is ranked 53rd in Best Engineering Schools by US News & World Report. This innovative citadel of learning follows a student-centered education model, making it most suitable for studying engineering. 
2. University of Rhode Island. Students can access the Fascitelli Center for Advanced Engineering, which invites collaboration in labs, classrooms, and cafes. It ranks among the best 200 engineering schools in the United States by US News & World Report and offers both master’s and doctoral degree programs in engineering.
3. Providence College. Providence College offers combined degree programs in engineering and physics with Columbia University and Washington University. It ranks 3rd in US News & World Report’s Most Innovative Schools list.

1. Bryant University. According to US News & World Report, this university ranks in the top 150 business schools. Bryant University gives adequate foundational knowledge in finance, international business, and general management.
2. Providence College. Providence College offers a part-time MBA program in its School of Business, making it easy for students to work outside school to support themselves. According to the US News & World Report’s ranking, its part-time MBA program ranks among the best 100 nationwide. 
3. Roger Williams University. The school of business of Roger Williams University is accredited by AACSB International, representing the highest achievement standard for business schools worldwide. Apart from having the highest accreditation, the program provides internships for its students after graduation.

1. Brown University. The School of Biology at Brown University equips students with the needed knowledge and skills to excel in the labor market. Students can choose from nine concentrations, including math, biology, biochemistry, and biomedical engineering.
2. University of Rhode Island. The University of Rhode Island ranks 144th in biological sciences. It gives students a wide range of knowledge in life sciences. The biology program prioritizes experiential learning and research with fieldwork.
3. Providence College. Providence College is a top undergraduate teaching school in Rhode Island. Its biological and biomedical sciences program is one of the best in the region. The school has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, making it relatively easy for students to have direct access to faculty members and learn more from them.

Human resources specialists evaluate applicants’ skills and experience in the application process to see if they fit with the company and job profile. Besides recruiting, they help maintain a healthy work environment, ensure respectful relationships among staff, and set compensation structures to meet industry standards. Human resources managers also provide regular leadership training for new hires.

• Average Salary in Rhode Island: $81,000
• Employment in Rhode Island: 2,330
• Overall Job Growth: 10%
• Best Rhode Island University Program: Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management at Johnson & Wales University

Sales representatives are skilled at selling a company’s products and services to customers. They have a solid understanding of the product specifications and the company’s offerings. They communicate this knowledge to prospective customers and convince them to patronize the business.

These professionals typically have excellent communication skills. Although formal education is not required, a degree in business or marketing can fast-track your career.

• Average Salary in Rhode Island: $93,710
• Employment in Rhode Island: 840
• Overall Job Growth: 5%
• Best Rhode Island University Program: Bachelor of Science in Marketing at Providence College

The general surgeon performs operations to treat or prevent diseases, repair damage caused by injuries, and improve human body functions. These highly trained professionals examine patients’ medical records, recommend diagnostics tests and treatments, and provide clinical advice. 

• Average Salary in Rhode Island: $193,000
• Employment in Rhode Island: 1,680
• Overall Job Growth: 3% 
• Best Rhode Island University Program: Medical degree at Brown University

Loan officers process the approval and payment of loans, respond to borrower inquiries and keep track of a borrower's profile. Having a finance degree or studying courses such as financial management, managerial accounting, and microeconomics in any of Rhode Island universities can qualify you for this job.

• Average Salary in Rhode Island: $81,770
• Employment in Rhode Island: 1,390
• Overall Job Growth: 1%
• Best Rhode Island University Program: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration: Finance Concentration at Bryant University

A revenue officer works with government agencies like the Internal Revenue Service to collect taxes, but they also have other duties. This job requires you to deal with people from all walks of life. You will need excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills to excel in this career path, and you’ll also need to have an economics degree.

• Average Salary in Rhode Island: $77,830
• Employment in Rhode Island: 350
• Overall Job Growth: -4% (decline)
• Best Rhode Island University Program: Bachelor of Arts in Economics at Providence College