Roger Williams University
RWU
Bristol, Rhode Island 02809-2921
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Strong graduate outcomes — known for business
Roger Williams University is a private suburban institution in Bristol, Rhode Island. The school is accessible to a wide range of students, with an average SAT of 1228.
A mid-sized campus of 4K undergraduates with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. The suburban location offers a balance of campus life and nearby amenities.
67% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $70,266 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $38,123.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •History The university’s operations date to 1919, when Northeastern University in Boston opened a branch campus in the YMCA building in Providence, Rhode Island.
- •In 1940, the YMCA board of directors began directing the school, and the YMCA Institute granted its first associate's degrees in 1948.
- •In 1956, the institute received a state charter to become a two-year, degree-granting institution under the name of Roger Williams Junior College.
Source: Wikipedia
Notable Alumni
Tim Baxter
Former President and CEO of Samsung Electronics North America
Jerry Remy
Former Boston Red Sox broadcaster and MLB player
Roberto DaSilva
First mayor of East Providence, Rhode Island
Chris Sparling
Screenwriter and director (Buried)
Joe Polisena
Former Rhode Island State Senator and Mayor of Johnston
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1228
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Admissions
Application Platforms
Early Decision (Binding)
November 1
Decision by December 1
Early Action
November 1
Decision by December 15
Regular Decision
February 1
Decision by March 15
Reply by May 1
SAT/ACT optional for admission consideration.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Decision Notifications
Transfer Admission
Fall Transfer
June 1
Spring Transfer
December 1
International Students
English Proficiency Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Financial Aid
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
41.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
4.9%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$19,500
Academics
Research: Marine science research opportunities on Narragansett Bay.
View all 41 majors›
Programs (102)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
After Graduation
Top Employers
Top Industries
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
79%
Campus Life
Housing & Residential Life
Housing Styles
Dining
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
28
Peer Average
37
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from RI state average + suburban adjustment
Climate (School Year)
Nearest Cities
Getting There
Nearest Airports
Distance to Cities
Getting Around
Walkability
Compact 140-acre waterfront campus; everything within walking distance.
Visit Planning
Nearby Hotels
Plan Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
Mount Hope Bay Beachwalkable
Private campus beach with kayaking and sailing.
Historic Downtown Bristol
Charming New England town with shops and restaurants.
Colt State Park
464-acre waterfront park with trails and picnic areas.
Blithewold Mansion
Historic estate with gardens and arboretum.
Providence
State capital 14 miles away with culture and dining.
Newport
Famous coastal resort town 15 miles away.