Rhode Island College

Public · Moderately Selective · RI

Photo: Kenneth C. Zirkel (CC BY-SA 4.0)

School data & stats

TypePublic

LocationRI · Northeast

SettingSuburban

Undergrads5,049

Student:faculty15:1

Outcomes

4-yr grad rate27.1%

6-yr grad rate48.1%

Drop-out rate26.7%

Study abroad—

Cost

In-state tuition$11k

Out-of-state tuition$27k

Application fee—

Community

Racial diversity52.1%

Gender diversity67.8%

International0.1%

Identity—

Overview

Rhode Island College, in Providence, is the oldest public institution of higher education in the state, with deep roots as a teacher-training school. It remains known for education, nursing, and social work, and it serves a largely commuter and first-generation student body at one of the most affordable price points in New England.

Academics

Education and nursing remain the clearest continuations of the college's historical mission, with social work also well established; all three lead directly into regional public-sector and health-care employment.

Campus & student life

Most students commute rather than live on campus, giving Rhode Island College a lower-key, less residential social atmosphere than many four-year colleges, with Providence's city resources available nearby for students who want them.

Getting in

Admission emphasizes access and affordability over selectivity, consistent with the college's historical mission of serving Rhode Island residents, including many first-generation students.

Worth knowing

The commuter-heavy, first-generation student population shapes daily campus life more than traditional dorm culture does, and prospective students expecting a typical residential experience should know that going in.

ric.edu ↗

Admissions

Acceptance rate91.8%

Enrolled mid-50%SAT 870–1120

Test policyoptional

Rec letters0

Deadlines (2026–27 cycle)

AdmissionRolling

Applying