Brown University vs Johnson & Wales University-Providence: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Brown University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $100,736 in 2.2 years versus not at all at Johnson & Wales University-Providence, on median earnings of $93,487 vs $43,418 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Brown University | Johnson & Wales University-Providence |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $25,184 | $31,027 |
| Total net cost | $100,736 | $124,108 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $93,487 | $43,418 |
| Median debt | $11,428 | $26,000 |
| Payback | 2.2 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $801,804 | -$222,948 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Brown University vs Johnson & Wales University-Providence: frequently asked questions
Is Brown University or Johnson & Wales University-Providence a better value?
Brown University. It clears its $100,736 net cost in about 2.2 years versus no clear payback at Johnson & Wales University-Providence, on median earnings of $93,487 vs $43,418 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Brown University or Johnson & Wales University-Providence?
Brown University: $25,184/yr net price after aid versus $31,027/yr at Johnson & Wales University-Providence — a difference of $5,843 a year, or about $23,372 over four years.
Do Brown University or Johnson & Wales University-Providence graduates earn more?
Brown University graduates earn a median $93,487 ten years after entry, versus $43,418 at Johnson & Wales University-Providence — a $50,069 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.