Rhode Island, the smallest state in the United States, is home to a number of prestigious private colleges and universities that offer a diverse range of academic programs, vibrant campus cultures, and opportunities for personal and professional development. Despite its small size, Rhode Island’s higher education institutions have a significant impact both nationally and globally. From Ivy League universities to renowned art and design schools, the state’s private colleges are known for their academic rigor, innovation, and commitment to developing well-rounded leaders. This guide provides a detailed overview of the major private colleges and universities in Rhode Island, highlighting their history, academic offerings, student life, and contributions to the broader community.
Brown University
Overview
Brown University, located in Providence, Rhode Island, is one of the eight Ivy League universities and is renowned for its open curriculum, academic excellence, and commitment to independent thinking. Founded in 1764, Brown is the seventh-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. The university is known for fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity, encouraging students to explore their academic interests without the constraints of a core curriculum. Brown’s diverse academic programs, world-class faculty, and collaborative environment make it one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
Academic Programs
Brown University offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across various disciplines through its colleges and schools:
- College of Arts and Sciences: Offers undergraduate degrees in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics.
- Graduate School: Provides advanced degrees in disciplines including the arts, sciences, and engineering.
- Warren Alpert Medical School: Offers MD and other medical degrees, emphasizing clinical training and research.
- School of Public Health: Focuses on public health research, policy, and education.
- School of Engineering: Provides degrees in fields such as biomedical engineering, computer engineering, and materials science.
Notable Programs:
- Public Health
- Engineering
- Political Science and International Relations
- Medicine (Warren Alpert Medical School)
- Computer Science
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 10,000 students (undergraduate and graduate combined).
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6:1, offering personalized mentorship and academic support.
- Athletics: The Brown Bears compete in NCAA Division I as part of the Ivy League, with strong programs in rowing, soccer, and track and field.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 400 student organizations, including cultural groups, academic clubs, and service organizations.
Open Curriculum and Independent Learning
Brown’s open curriculum allows students to design their own educational path without the requirements of a traditional core curriculum. This approach encourages intellectual independence, creativity, and exploration, allowing students to take courses that align with their interests and career goals. The university’s emphasis on undergraduate research, community engagement, and global learning further enhances the academic experience, preparing students to become leaders in their chosen fields.
Providence College
Overview
Providence College (PC) is a private Catholic university located in Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 1917 by the Dominican Order, PC is the only college or university in North America administered by the Dominican Friars. The college is known for its commitment to the liberal arts, its strong Catholic identity, and its focus on ethical leadership and service to others. Providence College combines rigorous academics with a vibrant campus life, offering students a well-rounded educational experience.
Academic Programs
Providence College offers undergraduate and graduate programs across its four academic schools:
- School of Arts and Sciences: Provides degrees in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
- School of Business: Known for its programs in accounting, marketing, management, and finance.
- School of Professional Studies: Offers programs in education, social work, and health policy.
- School of Continuing Education: Provides part-time programs and degrees for non-traditional students.
Notable Programs:
- Business Administration and Marketing
- Political Science
- Education and Teaching
- Theology and Religious Studies
- Philosophy
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 4,800 undergraduate students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1, fostering close academic relationships and mentorship.
- Athletics: The Providence Friars compete in NCAA Division I, with highly successful programs in basketball, hockey, and soccer.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 100 student organizations, including faith-based groups, academic societies, and community service clubs.
Catholic Tradition and Ethical Leadership
Providence College places a strong emphasis on integrating faith and reason in its academic programs, grounded in its Catholic and Dominican values. Students are encouraged to explore questions of ethics, morality, and social justice while developing their intellectual and spiritual lives. The college’s signature program, the Development of Western Civilization (DWC), provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and intellectual foundations of Western society. Through service opportunities, campus ministry, and leadership programs, Providence College fosters a community dedicated to ethical leadership and social responsibility.
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
Overview
The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), located in Providence, is one of the leading art and design schools in the world. Founded in 1877, RISD has a long tradition of excellence in the arts, fostering creativity and innovation in its students. Known for its rigorous studio-based programs, RISD offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in fine arts, architecture, and design, providing students with the skills and knowledge to become leaders in the creative industries.
Academic Programs
RISD offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across a range of artistic disciplines:
- Fine Arts: Programs include painting, sculpture, printmaking, and ceramics.
- Design: Includes degrees in graphic design, industrial design, and apparel design.
- Architecture and Design: Offers degrees in architecture, landscape architecture, and interior architecture.
- Film, Animation, and Video: A highly regarded program focusing on animation, filmmaking, and video production.
- Graduate Studies: Offers Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in various fields, as well as Master of Architecture and Master of Industrial Design degrees.
Notable Programs:
- Graphic Design
- Industrial Design
- Architecture
- Illustration
- Film and Animation
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,500 students (undergraduate and graduate combined).
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1, providing individualized attention and mentorship from experienced artists and designers.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes student-run galleries, collaborative art projects, and exhibitions, as well as a wide range of clubs focused on art, design, and cultural engagement.
Creativity and Innovation
RISD’s studio-based approach emphasizes hands-on learning and creative experimentation. Students work closely with faculty and peers in small, intensive classes that challenge them to push the boundaries of their artistic practice. The school’s location in Providence, a city known for its vibrant arts scene, offers students access to galleries, museums, and artistic communities. RISD’s alumni have gone on to become influential figures in the world of art and design, making significant contributions to industries such as fashion, film, architecture, and product design.
Bryant University
Overview
Bryant University, located in Smithfield, Rhode Island, is a private university known for its focus on business, leadership, and global education. Founded in 1863, Bryant offers a unique blend of business and liberal arts education, preparing students for success in a rapidly changing global economy. The university’s strong emphasis on experiential learning, leadership development, and international opportunities make it a top choice for students interested in business and entrepreneurship.
Academic Programs
Bryant University offers undergraduate and graduate programs through its two main schools:
- College of Business: Offers degrees in business administration, finance, marketing, accounting, and data science.
- College of Arts and Sciences: Provides programs in communication, economics, applied psychology, and global studies.
Notable Programs:
- Business Administration and Management
- Finance and Accounting
- Data Science
- Communication and Media Studies
- Global Supply Chain Management
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 3,400 undergraduate students and 400 graduate students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1, promoting a personalized learning environment.
- Athletics: The Bryant Bulldogs compete in NCAA Division I, with strong programs in football, basketball, and lacrosse.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 100 student organizations, including business clubs, academic societies, and leadership development programs.
Leadership and Global Education
Bryant University is committed to developing leaders who can succeed in a globalized world. The university’s International Business Program is one of the top-ranked programs in the country, offering students the opportunity to study abroad, complete internships with global companies, and develop cross-cultural communication skills. Bryant’s strong focus on leadership development is evident in its Leadership Institute, which provides students with training in ethical decision-making, strategic thinking, and professional communication.
Salve Regina University
Overview
Salve Regina University, located in Newport, Rhode Island, is a private Catholic university founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1934. Known for its picturesque campus and strong liberal arts foundation, Salve Regina combines academic rigor with a commitment to social justice and service. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on ethics, leadership, and community engagement.
Academic Programs
Salve Regina offers undergraduate and graduate programs across several disciplines:
- College of Arts and Sciences: Includes programs in English, psychology, biology, and political science.
- Department of Business Studies and Economics: Offers degrees in business administration, marketing, and economics.
- Nursing and Health Care Administration: Provides programs in nursing, healthcare management, and public health.
- Graduate Programs: Offers master’s degrees in counseling, rehabilitation, international relations, and business administration.
Notable Programs:
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- International Relations
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,100 undergraduate students and 600 graduate students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1, offering personalized academic guidance and mentorship.
- Athletics: The Salve Regina Seahawks compete in NCAA Division III athletics, with strong programs in soccer, tennis, and sailing.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 60 student organizations, including community service clubs, academic honor societies, and leadership development groups.
Mercy Values and Service
Salve Regina’s mission is grounded in the values of the Sisters of Mercy, with a focus on social justice, compassion, and service to others. The university encourages students to become leaders who work toward positive social change, both locally and globally. Salve Regina’s Mercy Center for Spiritual Life offers students opportunities for spiritual growth, community service, and ethical leadership. The university’s strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility is reflected in its campus-wide initiatives and academic programs in environmental studies and global ethics.
Roger Williams University
Overview
Roger Williams University (RWU), located in Bristol, Rhode Island, is a private university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on experiential learning, community engagement, and social justice. Founded in 1956, RWU emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning and civic responsibility, preparing students for successful careers and lives of purpose. The university is named after Roger Williams, the 17th-century theologian and founder of the state of Rhode Island, who was a champion of religious freedom and individual rights.
Academic Programs
Roger Williams University offers programs across several schools and colleges:
- Feinstein School of Social and Natural Sciences: Includes programs in biology, environmental science, psychology, and anthropology.
- Mario J. Gabelli School of Business: Offers degrees in business administration, finance, accounting, and marketing.
- School of Architecture, Art, and Historic Preservation: Provides programs in architecture, historic preservation, and visual arts.
- School of Engineering, Computing, and Construction Management: Known for its programs in civil engineering, construction management, and computer science.
- School of Justice Studies: Offers programs in criminal justice, legal studies, and cybersecurity.
Notable Programs:
- Architecture
- Business Administration
- Marine Biology and Environmental Science
- Criminal Justice and Legal Studies
- Engineering
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 4,000 undergraduate students and 1,000 graduate students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1, promoting personalized learning and close interaction with faculty.
- Athletics: The RWU Hawks compete in NCAA Division III athletics, excelling in sailing, lacrosse, and soccer.
- Extracurricular Activities: More than 70 student organizations, including environmental advocacy groups, academic clubs, and student government.
Experiential Learning and Social Responsibility
Roger Williams University is known for its commitment to experiential learning and social justice. Students have the opportunity to participate in internships, service-learning projects, and hands-on research in their fields of study. The university’s Community Partnerships Center connects students with local organizations and businesses, providing them with real-world experience while contributing to the community. RWU’s focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship is also reflected in its academic programs and campus initiatives.