Best Colleges in Rhode Island
The higher education experts at BestColleges reviewed the top 4-year colleges in Rhode Island. Start planning your future at BestColleges.Why Trust BestColleges
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More young people are enrolling in college every year, with the understanding that earning a college degree plays a critical role in entering many high-paying careers. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the undergraduate student population in the U.S. will increase from 16.8 million in 2017 to 17.2 million by 2028.
In addition to quality colleges and universities, Rhode Island boasts a robust economy with ample career opportunities in growing sectors like advanced manufacturing, leisure and hospitality, and education. The healthcare industry is another major employer, with over 67,200 workers in the state in 2019. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, as of November 2019, Rhode Island’s unemployment rate sat at 3.5%, slightly below the national average.
While conducting research into potential postsecondary schools can be overwhelming, this guide can assist your search by providing information about the five best colleges in Rhode Island.
The following rankings consider crucial factors such as programmatic accreditation, tuition prices, financial aid availability, and retention and graduation rates. Each profile details things such as degree offerings, online learning options, and students services. You can also gain insight on the application process.
If a school interests you, do not hesitate to contact the institution’s admissions specialists. These counselors can help you navigate enrollment and find scholarships.
Best Accredited Colleges in Rhode Island
Brown University
Providence, RI4 yearCampus + Online
$62,680
$62,680
5%
5%
$62,680
$62,680
99%
11,516
Private
Yes
$62,680
$62,680
Providence, RI4 yearCampus + Online
$62,680
$62,680
5%
5%
$62,680
$62,680
99%
11,516
Private
Yes
Providence College
Providence, RI2 yearCampus
$56,980
$56,980
49%
6%
$11,070
$11,070
91%
4,807
Private
Yes
$56,980
$56,980
Providence, RI2 yearCampus
$56,980
$56,980
49%
6%
$11,070
$11,070
91%
4,807
Private
Yes
Bryant University
Smithfield, RI2 yearCampus + Online
$48,432
$48,432
66%
2%
$47,100
$47,100
87%
3,591
Private
Yes
$48,432
$48,432
Smithfield, RI2 yearCampus + Online
$48,432
$48,432
66%
2%
$47,100
$47,100
87%
3,591
Private
Yes
University of Rhode Island
Kingston, RI4 yearCampus + Online
$14,116
$33,512
77%
34%
$14,822
$28,616
84%
16,585
Public
Yes
$14,116
$33,512
Kingston, RI4 yearCampus + Online
$14,116
$33,512
77%
34%
$14,822
$28,616
84%
16,585
Public
Yes
Salve Regina University
Newport, RI4 yearCampus + Online
$45,250
$45,250
70%
41%
$12,060
$12,060
82%
2,872
Private
Yes
$45,250
$45,250
Newport, RI4 yearCampus + Online
$45,250
$45,250
70%
41%
$12,060
$12,060
82%
2,872
Private
Yes
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