Head-to-head · 2026
Providence College vs University of Rhode Island
Compare average net price ($48,523 at Providence College; $21,440 at University of Rhode Island), ROI score (4.49 vs 8.13), ten-year median earnings ($87,054 vs $69,743), and admissions selectivity (50.9% acceptance at Providence College; 72.2% at University of Rhode Island) using federal College Scorecard data. Providence College has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. University of Rhode Island 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 | Providence College | University of Rhode Island |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 4.49 | 8.13 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $48,523 | $21,440 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $87,054 ✓ | $69,743 |
| Acceptance rate | 50.9% ✓ | 72.2% |
| Graduation rate | 85.8% ✓ | 73.3% |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $22,250 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 4,229 | 13,381 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1346 ✓ | 1160 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Providence College costs $27,083 more per year than University of Rhode Island ($48,523 vs $21,440). Providence College graduates report $17,311 higher median earnings after ten years ($87,054 vs $69,743). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Rhode Island ahead on projected ROI (8.13 vs 4.49, 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, Providence College is selective at 50.9% acceptance versus 72.2% (accessible) at University of Rhode Island.
Frequently asked
Providence College vs University of Rhode Island, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Providence College or University of Rhode Island the better value?
University of Rhode Island has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.13 vs 4.49), 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 $48,523 at Providence College. The annual difference of $27,083 adds up to about $108,332 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Providence College reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $87,054 vs $69,743 at University of Rhode Island. The annual gap in the federal data is $17,311.
Which school is harder to get into?
Providence College is more selective at 50.9% acceptance vs 72.2% at University of Rhode Island.
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. Providence College reports a D value grade; University of Rhode Island reports B.