Head-to-head · 2026
Rhode Island School of Design vs Roger Williams University
Compare average net price ($50,507 at Rhode Island School of Design; $37,999 at Roger Williams University), ROI score (3.37 vs 4.62), ten-year median earnings ($68,140 vs $70,266), and admissions selectivity (18.7% acceptance at Rhode Island School of Design; 87.7% at Roger Williams University) using federal College Scorecard data. Roger Williams University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Roger Williams University 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 | Rhode Island School of Design | Roger Williams University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 3.37 | 4.62 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $50,507 | $37,999 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $68,140 | $70,266 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 18.7% ✓ | 87.7% |
| Graduation rate | 88.8% ✓ | 68.7% |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $26,940 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,084 | 3,946 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1473 ✓ | 1223 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Rhode Island School of Design costs $12,508 more per year than Roger Williams University ($50,507 vs $37,999). Roger Williams University graduates report $2,126 higher median earnings after ten years ($70,266 vs $68,140). On EduGradify's model that puts Roger Williams University ahead on projected ROI (4.62 vs 3.37, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Roger Williams University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Rhode Island School of Design is selective at 18.7% acceptance versus 87.7% (accessible) at Roger Williams University.
Frequently asked
Rhode Island School of Design vs Roger Williams University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Rhode Island School of Design or Roger Williams University the better value?
Roger Williams University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (4.62 vs 3.37), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Roger Williams University is cheaper — average net price $37,999 per year vs $50,507 at Rhode Island School of Design. The annual difference of $12,508 adds up to about $50,032 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Roger Williams University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $70,266 vs $68,140 at Rhode Island School of Design. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,126.
Which school is harder to get into?
Rhode Island School of Design is more selective at 18.7% acceptance vs 87.7% at Roger Williams University.
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 School of Design reports a D value grade; Roger Williams University reports D.