Most
Affordable Colleges in Providence in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Providence, Rhode Island, combines foundational business knowledge with decision-making skills. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, statistics, and organizational behavior. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, or sales representative. Popular local options include Johnson & Wales University, Providence College, and Rhode Island College, each offering business-related study. Students can also benefit from internships and Providence's diverse employers.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Providence, Rhode Island, offers students a blend of scientific theory and practical insight into behavior. Courses commonly include research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, neuroscience, and abnormal psychology. Popular local options include Brown University, Providence College, and Rhode Island College. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources specialist, market researcher, or community support worker. Some careers require graduate study, licensure, or additional supervised experience.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Providence, Rhode Island, combines programming theory and practical problem-solving. Students typically take courses in algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Projects and internships can build experience with real-world applications. Popular Providence institutions offering computer science study include Brown University, Providence College, and Rhode Island College. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, and web developers. Teamwork skills are valuable.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Providence, Rhode Island, typically involves psychology, human development, counseling theories, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, group counseling, and supervised fieldwork. Rhode Island College, Johnson & Wales University, and Providence College are Providence institutions to explore for counseling or school-counseling programs. Graduates may work as school counselors, mental-health counselors, substance-use counselors, career advisors, or case managers, depending on degree level, specialization, and licensure. Compare accreditation, internship opportunities, and Rhode Island licensing requirements before enrolling.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Providence offers pathways into patient care through classroom learning and clinical rotations. Students typically study anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, ethics, and community health. Programs also develop communication, clinical reasoning, and patient safety skills. Providence-based options include Rhode Island College and Johnson & Wales University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, or community health settings, while some continue toward advanced practice or specialization.

Best Colleges in Providence, RI Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 41,782.0 overall, compared with 64,956.8 at schools in the top 10%, so the overall median is lower.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid overall, compared with 57.67% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 57.67%. Schools receive an average of 13,639.33 applicants, compared with 30,712.5 applicants at schools in the top 10%.
• The median number of applicants is 2,313.0 for men and 5,126.5 for women.
• The average SAT score is 1,378.33, and the average ACT score is 31.33.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,181.67, including averages of 399.17 men and 590.17 women.
• The average graduation rate is 62.33%, while the average at top 10% schools is 92.5%. Median graduation rates are 85.0% for men and 73.0% for women.
• Two institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, six offer master's degrees, and four offer doctor's degrees.
• Six schools are coeducational; zero schools are for men and zero are for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, academic measures, enrollment, graduation rates, degree offerings, and school type. The figures show that the top 10% schools have higher median costs and graduation rates, while the overall average aid percentage is higher; consider which of these factors best fits your budget and educational priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Providence, RI cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Providence, RI, is $40,660.43. For a local student, that figure offers a useful starting point, but it is not necessarily the full price of completing an entire degree: costs vary by college, program, and how many years you attend. The supplied average for tuition and fees is $40,884.86, while room and board averages $17,502.40 and books and supplies average $1,762.50. Because these categories do not reconcile with the reported total, treat them as separate estimates rather than adding them together.

When comparing Providence schools such as Brown University, Providence College, Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson & Wales University, check each institution's current cost of attendance and financial-aid offer. Your personal budget may look very different if you commute, share housing, qualify for grants, or buy used books. Planning early can make the goal manageable and help you choose confidently and wisely.

How long does it take to finish college in Providence, RI?

Most bachelor's degrees in Providence take about four years of full-time study; an associate's degree typically takes two. At Brown University, Providence College, or Johnson & Wales University's Providence campus, your actual timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, and whether you study full time. Providence offers a lively college setting, and planning ahead can help you make steady progress without sacrificing the experience.

To finish sooner, consider bringing in AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring approved coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program where available. Meet an academic adviser early to confirm which credits count toward your specific degree and avoid adding unnecessary semesters. Graduation rates offer a useful, though not individual, guide to completion: the supplied data report an average graduation rate of 62.33%, while the average for the top 10% of schools is 92.5%. For men and women, reported averages are 72% and 63.67%, respectively.

Salary

After graduating from college in Providence, RI, you can expect a median alumni salary of $48,347. At schools in the top 10%, the median rises to $61,505 - a promising benchmark as you plan for your first steps after college.

• Median alumni salary: $48,347
• Median alumni salary at top 10% schools: $61,505

Providence offers a range of colleges and universities, including Brown University, Providence College, Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson & Wales University. Your earnings will depend on factors such as your field of study, experience, and the role you pursue, so individual outcomes can vary. Still, the figures offer a useful starting point as you explore programs and imagine building your career in or beyond Providence.

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Providence?

Costs depend on the school, your Rhode Island residency, and whether you live on campus. As a rough annual tuition estimate, community college may cost several thousand dollars, a public four-year college around $12,000 or more for in-state students, and private colleges substantially more. Housing, meals, books, and fees add to the total.

What college in Providence has the lowest tuition?

Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI), which has a Providence campus, is generally one of the least expensive local options for Rhode Island residents. Its tuition is charged by credit, so your total depends on how many classes you take; fees and other expenses are additional. Check CCRI's current rates before planning your budget.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Providence, RI Ranking in 2026-2027

Rhode Island College offers a comparatively affordable route to a degree in Providence, RI, with 6,644 enrolled students. Its 48% graduation rate and 92% acceptance rate may appeal to students seeking an accessible public college environment. Annual total study cost is $25,764, while median alumni salary is $48,347. As a public institution serving diverse learners, RIC provides an in-city option for students who want campus life and local connections without leaving Providence or nearby communities for their undergraduate education journey.

College Unbound is a small Providence-based college with 495 enrolled students, offering a close-knit setting for learners pursuing a degree in Providence, RI. Its reported graduation and acceptance rates are unavailable, so compare those figures directly with other schools only when updated data is available. Total study cost is $11,016, the lowest among these five options, and median alumni salary is $50,435. The college is known for an adult-focused approach, which may suit Providence students balancing study with work locally.

Johnson & Wales University-Online gives Providence, RI, students a way to pursue coursework online while remaining in the area. The reported enrollment figure is unavailable; its listed graduation rate is 0% and acceptance rate is 91%. Total cost of study is $13,365, and median alumni salary is $42,538. As the online option within the Johnson & Wales system, it may fit students who need flexibility, though applicants should confirm how remote study connects with Providence-based services and their intended program.

Brown University is a prominent Providence, RI, institution offering students a rigorous setting and broad undergraduate choices. With 11,939 enrolled students, it reports a 96% graduation rate and a highly selective 5% acceptance rate. The total study cost is $68,612, the highest among these five colleges, while median alumni salary is $62,411. Its urban campus places learning in Providence, where students can engage with the city's cultural, civic and professional life. Applicants should weigh cost alongside financial aid and overall fit.

Johnson & Wales University-Providence is a Providence, RI, campus option for students interested in a career-oriented university experience. It enrolls 4,303 students, with a 55% graduation rate and an 88% acceptance rate. Total cost of study is $41,782, and median alumni salary is $42,538. It offers programs in business, hospitality and culinary arts, bringing a career focus to Providence. Students based nearby can weigh its urban campus, program choices and costs against their professional goals before applying to the university.