Head-to-head · 2026
Rhode Island College vs University of Rhode Island
Compare average net price ($9,478 at Rhode Island College; $21,440 at University of Rhode Island), ROI score (14.85 vs 8.13), ten-year median earnings ($56,318 vs $69,743), and admissions selectivity (91.8% acceptance at Rhode Island College; 72.2% at University of Rhode Island) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Rhode Island has a narrow 4-3 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 | Rhode Island College | University of Rhode Island |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 14.85 ✓ | 8.13 |
| Avg net price | $9,478 ✓ | $21,440 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $56,318 | $69,743 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 91.8% | 72.2% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 48.1% | 73.3% ✓ |
| Median debt | $20,500 ✓ | $22,250 |
| Enrollment | 5,049 | 13,381 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 990 | 1160 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Rhode Island costs $11,962 more per year than Rhode Island College ($21,440 vs $9,478). University of Rhode Island graduates report $13,425 higher median earnings after ten years ($69,743 vs $56,318). On EduGradify's model that puts Rhode Island College ahead on projected ROI (14.85 vs 8.13, 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, Rhode Island College is accessible at 91.8% acceptance versus 72.2% (accessible) at University of Rhode Island.
Frequently asked
Rhode Island College vs University of Rhode Island, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Rhode Island College or University of Rhode Island the better value?
Rhode Island College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (14.85 vs 8.13), 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 $21,440 at University of Rhode Island. The annual difference of $11,962 adds up to about $47,848 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Rhode Island reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $69,743 vs $56,318 at Rhode Island College. The annual gap in the federal data is $13,425.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Rhode Island is more selective at 72.2% 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. Rhode Island College reports a A value grade; University of Rhode Island reports B.