Best
Colleges in Rhode Island in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Rhode Island combines business knowledge with practical skills for leadership. Courses typically include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, statistics, and entrepreneurship. Students develop communication, analytical, and decision-making abilities through projects and internships. Popular Rhode Island colleges offering business programs include the University of Rhode Island, Bryant University, Providence College, and Johnson & Wales University. Graduates pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, sales representative, or operations manager.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Rhode Island offers opportunities to explore human behavior through courses such as developmental psychology, social psychology, research methods, statistics, cognition, and abnormal psychology. Students can pursue programs at Brown University, the University of Rhode Island, Providence College, Roger Williams University, and Bryant University. Graduates commonly work as case managers, behavioral health technicians, research assistants, human resources specialists, or community support workers. Advanced clinical or counseling roles usually require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Rhode Island offers programs at Brown University, the University of Rhode Island, Providence College, Bryant University, and Rhode Island College. Typical coursework includes programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build problem-solving skills through projects and internships with local employers. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity analysts, systems administrators, or web developers. Programs help you develop practical skills for varied technology careers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Rhode Island combines theory and supervised practice to prepare students to support people across life stages. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural counseling, group work, and practicum or internship experiences. Rhode Island College, the University of Rhode Island, and Salve Regina University offer counseling or related programs. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, clinical mental health counselors, college student services professionals, or case managers, subject to applicable education, licensing, and certification requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Rhode Island combines classroom learning, simulation, and clinical placements in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, schools, or public health, depending on degree and licensure. Popular in-state options include the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and Salve Regina University, which offer nursing pathways.

Best Colleges in Rhode Island Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 43,324.5, compared with 62,424.4 at schools in the top 10%.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with 64.18% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 64.18%. Schools receive an average of 12,329.64 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 26,987 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 2,846, compared with 4,538 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,264.67 on the SAT and 30.0 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,574.82. Average enrollment is 454.0 men and 610.09 women.
• The average graduation rate is 66.64%, compared with 89.0% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 69.0% for men and 77.0% for women.
• Four institutions offer associate's degrees, 12 offer bachelor's degrees, 12 offer master's degrees, and six offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 11 coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and applicant numbers, while the overall average financial-aid rate is higher; consider which factors best fit your academic goals and budget.

How much does studying at a college in Rhode Island cost?

The average total cost of studying in Rhode Island is about $41,689.92. For a student planning a degree, that figure offers a useful starting point, though actual expenses vary by college, program, and living arrangements. The reported average tuition and fees are $41,217.25, while room and board average $17,566.80 and books and supplies add about $1,627.11. These component averages may not add up to the reported total, so check each college's current cost estimate before budgeting.

Rhode Island offers options including Brown University and Providence College, the University of Rhode Island in Kingston, and Rhode Island School of Design. Comparing campuses can help you match your goals and budget. Ask a financial-aid office for a net-price estimate; scholarships and grants may lower your out-of-pocket cost. Check fees, housing choices, and whether commuting from home is practical. With planning, you can focus on the opportunities ahead and feel confident about pursuing a degree in Rhode Island.

How long does it take to finish college in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree at Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) usually takes about two. Lab-based majors, clinical placements, required course sequences, or part-time schedules can extend that timeline. At Brown University, the University of Rhode Island, and Providence College, expect a standard four-year bachelor's pathway, and check program requirements early.

Finish sooner by earning AP/IB or dual-enrollment credit, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or following an accelerated schedule. Confirm credits satisfy major requirements. Careful CCRI-to-university transfer planning can prevent repeated courses and offer an affordable start.

Graduation rates provide context: the average reported rate is 66.64%, versus 89% among the top 10% of schools. The averages are 70% for men and 68.73% for women. Rates cannot predict your outcome, but advising, manageable course loads, and early support can help you finish on time with confidence and pride.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in Rhode Island, you can use $50,435 as a broad benchmark: that is the median alumni salary in the available data. Graduates of schools in the top 10% had a median alumni salary of $62,109. These figures are useful guideposts, not guaranteed starting salaries - your earnings can vary with your field, experience, and the role you pursue.

Whether you study at the University of Rhode Island, Brown University, Providence College, or Rhode Island College, your degree can open doors to a range of careers in the state and beyond. Keep in mind that the figures above are general alumni medians, not salary estimates for any one of those schools.

• Median alumni salary: $50,435
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: $62,109

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in Rhode Island?

By total student enrollment, the University of Rhode Island, Brown University, and the Community College of Rhode Island are generally the state's three largest institutions. URI enrolls around 17,000 students, while Brown and CCRI each enroll roughly 10,000-11,000. Counts vary by year and by whether part-time students are included.

How many colleges are there in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island has about 12 colleges and universities when counting its major degree-granting institutions, including both two-year and four-year schools. The total can differ depending on whether specialized institutions, branch campuses, or other postsecondary schools are included. For students comparing options, the state offers a mix of public, private, and community-college choices.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges Ranking in Rhode Island Ranking in 2026-2027

Brown University offers Rhode Island students an Ivy League education in Providence, with an open curriculum that lets undergraduates shape their studies across disciplines. It enrolls 11,939 students, graduates 96%, and admits 5%, making admission selective. The listed study cost is $68,612, while median alumni salary is $62,411. For local applicants, staying in-state can mean access to a research community without leaving Rhode Island, though families should compare financial aid offers before deciding whether the published cost fits their budget.

Bryant University in Smithfield is a private university known for business-focused programs, leadership development, and a welcoming campus. It has 4,053 students, an 80% graduation rate, and a 65% acceptance rate, offering a less selective option for Rhode Island applicants. Its study cost is $51,780, and median alumni salary is $65,252. Students can study in-state near Providence and may value Bryant's career atmosphere; compare aid and program fit, since costs and outcomes should be considered when choosing a college.

The University of Rhode Island, based in Kingston, is the state's public research university, with coastal surroundings and academic offerings. Its 17,277 students benefit from a campus community; the graduation rate is 73%, and the acceptance rate is 72%. Total study cost is $34,834, the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $52,670. For Rhode Island residents, URI offers an in-state route to many fields and campus life near the ocean, making it an option to investigate.

Providence College is a private Catholic liberal arts college in Providence, offering students a residential campus and traditions. It enrolls 5,093 students, with an 86% graduation rate and a 51% acceptance rate. The study cost is $62,520, and median alumni salary is $60,901. Rhode Island students can pursue a degree close to the state's capital, gaining access to internships, cultural activities, and employers while near home. Compare financial aid and programs to decide whether this campus suits your goals.

Rhode Island College in Providence is a college offering accessible, career-relevant education and a campus community. It enrolls 6,644 students, graduates 48%, and has a 92% acceptance rate, making it the most accessible admissions option in this group. Its study cost is $25,764, the lowest, and median alumni salary is $48,347. For Rhode Island residents, the college's in-state location and affordability may help limit expenses while pursuing study; prospective students should review completion support and programs that match their plans.