Head-to-head · 2026
Brown University vs Rhode Island College
Compare average net price ($25,184 at Brown University; $9,478 at Rhode Island College), ROI score (9.28 vs 14.85), ten-year median earnings ($93,487 vs $56,318), and admissions selectivity (5.4% acceptance at Brown University; 91.8% at Rhode Island College) using federal College Scorecard data. Brown University has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Rhode Island College leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Brown University | Rhode Island College |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.28 | 14.85 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $25,184 | $9,478 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $93,487 ✓ | $56,318 |
| Acceptance rate | 5.4% ✓ | 91.8% |
| Graduation rate | 95.7% ✓ | 48.1% |
| Median debt | $11,428 ✓ | $20,500 |
| Enrollment | 7,226 | 5,049 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1546 ✓ | 990 |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Brown University costs $15,706 more per year than Rhode Island College ($25,184 vs $9,478). Brown University graduates report $37,169 higher median earnings after ten years ($93,487 vs $56,318). On EduGradify's model that puts Rhode Island College ahead on projected ROI (14.85 vs 9.28, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Rhode Island College) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Brown University is highly competitive at 5.4% acceptance versus 91.8% (accessible) at Rhode Island College.
Frequently asked
Brown University vs Rhode Island College, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Brown University or Rhode Island College the better value?
Rhode Island College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (14.85 vs 9.28), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Rhode Island College is cheaper — average net price $9,478 per year vs $25,184 at Brown University. The annual difference of $15,706 adds up to about $62,824 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Brown University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $93,487 vs $56,318 at Rhode Island College. The annual gap in the federal data is $37,169.
Which school is harder to get into?
Brown University is more selective at 5.4% acceptance vs 91.8% at Rhode Island College.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Brown University reports a B value grade; Rhode Island College reports A.