Public Four-Year Universities in Rhode Island

University of Rhode Island

Overview

The University of Rhode Island (URI), founded in 1892, is the flagship public university in Rhode Island. Known for its strong academic programs, research initiatives, and vibrant campus life, URI is a significant contributor to the state’s educational and economic landscape.

Location

Kingston, Rhode Island

Enrollment

Approximately 17,000 students

Academic Programs

URI offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs through its 9 colleges:

• College of Arts and Sciences
• College of Business
• College of Education and Professional Studies
• College of Engineering
• College of the Environment and Life Sciences
• College of Health Sciences
• College of Nursing
• College of Pharmacy
• Graduate School of Oceanography

The university is particularly known for its programs in oceanography, engineering, pharmacy, and business.

Research and Innovation

URI is a leader in research and innovation, with numerous research centers and institutes, including the Coastal Resources Center, the Institute for Immunology and Informatics, and the International Engineering Program. The university’s research efforts span a wide array of disciplines, from oceanography and engineering to health sciences and business.

Campus Life

URI provides a dynamic campus life with over 200 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts numerous events, such as concerts, lectures, and cultural festivals, enhancing the student experience.

Athletics

The URI Rams compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic 10 Conference. The university offers a variety of sports, including football, basketball, soccer, and track and field. The athletics program is a central part of campus life, fostering school spirit and community engagement.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni include former U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell, journalist Christiane Amanpour, and actor Lamar Odom. The university’s alumni network is extensive and influential, with graduates excelling in various fields such as politics, media, sports, and business.

Rhode Island College

Overview

Rhode Island College (RIC), founded in 1854, is a public liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on teacher education, nursing, and the liberal arts. RIC offers a comprehensive educational experience in a supportive and vibrant campus environment.

Location

Providence, Rhode Island

Enrollment

Approximately 7,000 students

Academic Programs

RIC offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs through its five schools:

• Faculty of Arts and Sciences
• School of Business
• Feinstein School of Education and Human Development
• School of Nursing
• School of Social Work

The college is particularly known for its programs in education, nursing, social work, and the liberal arts.

Research and Innovation

RIC is dedicated to research and innovation, with numerous research centers and initiatives, including the Child Welfare Institute, the Institute for Portuguese and Lusophone World Studies, and the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities. The college’s research efforts cover a wide array of disciplines, from education and social work to health sciences and the arts.

Campus Life

RIC provides a vibrant campus life with over 80 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The college hosts numerous events, such as concerts, lectures, and cultural festivals, enhancing the student experience.

Athletics

The RIC Anchormen and Anchorwomen compete in the NCAA Division III Little East Conference. The college offers a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, softball, and track and field. The athletics program is an integral part of campus life, fostering school spirit and community engagement.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni include former Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Almond, U.S. Congressman Jim Langevin, and actress Viola Davis. The college’s alumni network is extensive and influential, with graduates excelling in various fields such as politics, education, entertainment, and public service.

Community College of Rhode Island

Overview

The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI), founded in 1964, is the only community college in Rhode Island and the largest public postsecondary institution in the state. While primarily a two-year institution, CCRI offers several four-year degree pathways in collaboration with other institutions.

Location

Multiple campuses across Rhode Island, with main campuses in Warwick and Lincoln

Enrollment

Approximately 13,000 students

Academic Programs

CCRI offers a range of associate degrees and certificate programs, and collaborates with institutions like Rhode Island College and the University of Rhode Island for four-year degree pathways:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (BSTEM)
• Health and Rehabilitative Sciences
• Public Service, Education, and Social Sciences

The college is particularly known for its programs in nursing, health sciences, business, and the liberal arts.

Research and Innovation

CCRI supports research and innovation through various initiatives and partnerships, including the Center for Workforce and Community Education and collaborations with industry and government agencies. The college’s research efforts focus on practical applications and workforce development.

Campus Life

CCRI provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The college hosts numerous events, such as workshops, career fairs, and cultural celebrations, enhancing the student experience.

Athletics

The CCRI Knights compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). The college offers a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, baseball, and volleyball. The athletics program is an integral part of campus life, fostering school spirit and community engagement.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni include Rhode Island State Senator Hanna Gallo, entrepreneur and philanthropist Alan Shawn Feinstein, and Rhode Island State Representative Joseph McNamara. The college’s alumni network is extensive and influential, with graduates excelling in various fields such as politics, business, education, and public service.

Naval War College

Overview

The Naval War College (NWC), founded in 1884, is a prestigious military education institution providing advanced education to officers of the U.S. Navy and other branches of the armed forces, as well as civilian leaders. While not a traditional four-year university, it offers graduate-level programs and degrees.

Location

Newport, Rhode Island

Enrollment

Approximately 600 students per year

Academic Programs

NWC offers a range of graduate programs focused on military strategy, national security, and defense studies:

• College of Naval Warfare
• College of Naval Command and Staff
• College of Distance Education

The college is particularly known for its programs in national security affairs, strategic studies, and joint military operations.

Research and Innovation

NWC is dedicated to research and innovation, with numerous research centers and initiatives, including the Center for Naval Warfare Studies, the War Gaming Department, and the Strategic and Operational Research Department. The college’s research efforts focus on military strategy, security studies, and defense policy.

Campus Life

NWC provides a unique campus life focused on professional military education and leadership development. The college hosts numerous events, such as lectures, conferences, and war games, enhancing the educational experience of its students.

Athletics

NWC does not have traditional intercollegiate athletics, but offers various recreational sports and fitness programs to promote physical fitness and well-being among its students.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni include U.S. Navy Admiral William Halsey Jr., former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, and U.S. Army General Raymond T. Odierno. The college’s alumni network is extensive and influential, with graduates excelling in various fields such as military leadership, politics, and international relations.