Head-to-head · 2026
Johnson & Wales University-Providence vs University of Rhode Island
Compare average net price ($31,027 at Johnson & Wales University-Providence; $21,440 at University of Rhode Island), ROI score (3.50 vs 8.13), ten-year median earnings ($43,418 vs $69,743), and admissions selectivity (88.4% acceptance at Johnson & Wales University-Providence; 72.2% at University of Rhode Island) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Rhode Island has a 7-0 metric-level edge. University of Rhode Island has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 | Johnson & Wales University-Providence | University of Rhode Island |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 3.50 | 8.13 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $31,027 | $21,440 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $43,418 | $69,743 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 88.4% | 72.2% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 55.4% | 73.3% ✓ |
| Median debt | $26,000 | $22,250 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 3,868 | 13,381 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1050 | 1160 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 0 | 7 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Johnson & Wales University-Providence costs $9,587 more per year than University of Rhode Island ($31,027 vs $21,440). University of Rhode Island graduates report $26,325 higher median earnings after ten years ($69,743 vs $43,418). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Rhode Island ahead on projected ROI (8.13 vs 3.50, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Rhode Island) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Johnson & Wales University-Providence is accessible at 88.4% acceptance versus 72.2% (accessible) at University of Rhode Island.
Frequently asked
Johnson & Wales University-Providence vs University of Rhode Island, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Johnson & Wales University-Providence or University of Rhode Island the better value?
University of Rhode Island has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.13 vs 3.50), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Rhode Island is cheaper — average net price $21,440 per year vs $31,027 at Johnson & Wales University-Providence. The annual difference of $9,587 adds up to about $38,348 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Rhode Island reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $69,743 vs $43,418 at Johnson & Wales University-Providence. The annual gap in the federal data is $26,325.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Rhode Island is more selective at 72.2% acceptance vs 88.4% at Johnson & Wales University-Providence.
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. Johnson & Wales University-Providence reports a D value grade; University of Rhode Island reports B.