Rhode Island College vs Johnson & Wales University-Providence: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Rhode Island College has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $37,912 in 4.8 years versus not at all at Johnson & Wales University-Providence, on median earnings of $56,318 vs $43,418 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Rhode Island College | Johnson & Wales University-Providence |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $9,478 | $31,027 |
| Total net cost | $37,912 | $124,108 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $56,318 | $43,418 |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $26,000 |
| Payback | 4.8 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $121,248 | -$222,948 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Rhode Island College vs Johnson & Wales University-Providence: frequently asked questions
Is Rhode Island College or Johnson & Wales University-Providence a better value?
Rhode Island College. It clears its $37,912 net cost in about 4.8 years versus no clear payback at Johnson & Wales University-Providence, on median earnings of $56,318 vs $43,418 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Rhode Island College or Johnson & Wales University-Providence?
Rhode Island College: $9,478/yr net price after aid versus $31,027/yr at Johnson & Wales University-Providence — a difference of $21,549 a year, or about $86,196 over four years.
Do Rhode Island College or Johnson & Wales University-Providence graduates earn more?
Rhode Island College graduates earn a median $56,318 ten years after entry, versus $43,418 at Johnson & Wales University-Providence — a $12,900 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.