Head-to-head · 2026
Rhode Island School of Design vs University of Rhode Island
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for Rhode Island School of Design, 4 for University of Rhode Island — University of Rhode Island has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Rhode Island School of Design | University of Rhode Island |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 3.37 | 8.13 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $50,507 | $21,440 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $68,140 | $69,743 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 18.7% ✓ | 72.2% |
| Graduation rate | 88.8% ✓ | 73.3% |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $22,250 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,084 | 13,381 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1473 ✓ | 1160 |
| Wins | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Rhode Island School of Design costs $29,067 more per year than University of Rhode Island ($50,507 vs $21,440). University of Rhode Island graduates report $1,603 higher median earnings after ten years ($69,743 vs $68,140). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Rhode Island ahead on projected ROI (8.13 vs 3.37, 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, Rhode Island School of Design is selective at 18.7% acceptance versus 72.2% (accessible) at University of Rhode Island.
Frequently asked
Rhode Island School of Design vs University of Rhode Island, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Rhode Island School of Design or University of Rhode Island the better value?
University of Rhode Island has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.13 vs 3.37), 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 $50,507 at Rhode Island School of Design. The annual difference of $29,067 adds up to about $116,268 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Rhode Island reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $69,743 vs $68,140 at Rhode Island School of Design. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,603.
Which school is harder to get into?
Rhode Island School of Design is more selective at 18.7% 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. Rhode Island School of Design reports a D value grade; University of Rhode Island reports B.