Brown University vs Providence College: 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 5 years at Providence College, on median earnings of $93,487 vs $87,054 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Brown University | Providence College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $25,184 | $48,523 |
| Total net cost | $100,736 | $194,092 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $93,487 | $87,054 |
| Median debt | $11,428 | $27,000 |
| Payback | 2.2 yrs | 5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $801,804 | $579,788 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Brown University vs Providence College: frequently asked questions
Is Brown University or Providence College a better value?
Brown University. It clears its $100,736 net cost in about 2.2 years versus 5 years at Providence College, on median earnings of $93,487 vs $87,054 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Brown University or Providence College?
Brown University: $25,184/yr net price after aid versus $48,523/yr at Providence College — a difference of $23,339 a year, or about $93,356 over four years.
Do Brown University or Providence College graduates earn more?
Brown University graduates earn a median $93,487 ten years after entry, versus $87,054 at Providence College — a $6,433 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.