Rhode Island College vs Providence College: 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 5 years at Providence College, on median earnings of $56,318 vs $87,054 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Rhode Island College | Providence College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $9,478 | $48,523 |
| Total net cost | $37,912 | $194,092 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $56,318 | $87,054 |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $27,000 |
| Payback | 4.8 yrs | 5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $121,248 | $579,788 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Rhode Island College vs Providence College: frequently asked questions
Is Rhode Island College or Providence College a better value?
Rhode Island College. It clears its $37,912 net cost in about 4.8 years versus 5 years at Providence College, on median earnings of $56,318 vs $87,054 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Rhode Island College or Providence College?
Rhode Island College: $9,478/yr net price after aid versus $48,523/yr at Providence College — a difference of $39,045 a year, or about $156,180 over four years.
Do Rhode Island College or Providence College graduates earn more?
Providence College graduates earn a median $87,054 ten years after entry, versus $56,318 at Rhode Island College — a $30,736 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.