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Rhode Island School of Design

Providence, Rhode Island

Acceptance rate14%
Institution type4-year college
Application fee$60
In-state Tuition$59,760
Out-of-state Tuition$59,760
Avg. Cost after Aid$38,000

About Rhode Island School of Design

A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

Founded in 1877, Rhode Island School of Design is a 4-year college serving students in Providence, Rhode Island. With a tradition of academic excellence, Rhode Island School of Design prepares graduates for success in Visual & Performing Arts, Interdisciplinary Studies, Computer Science, and more.

A Diverse Community in Providence

Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 8:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.

Commitment to Access and Affordability

Rhode Island School of Design is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $33,653, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.

Research That Shapes the World

Rhode Island School of Design emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.

Outcomes for Rhode Island School of Design students

Graduation rate (within 6 years)89%
Graduation rate (within 4 years)49%
First-year retention rate93%
Median earnings 8 years after enrolling$58,975
Median earnings 10 years after enrolling$68,140
Median debt at graduation$27,000

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

Students at Rhode Island School of Design

Total enrollment2,520
Undergraduate students2,087
Graduate students433
International students33%
First-generation students11%

What you can study at Rhode Island School of Design

18 programs, most of them in these fields:

  • Visual and Performing Arts (10)

    Ceramic Arts and Ceramics, Fiber, Textile and Weaving Arts, Film/Video and Photographic Arts, Other, and more

  • Family and Consumer Sciences (2)

    Apparel and Textiles, General, Work and Family Studies

  • Multi Interdisciplinary Studies (2)

    Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General, Systems Science and Theory

  • Precision Production (2)

    Furniture Design and Manufacturing, Precision Production Trades, General

  • Architecture (1)

    Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology

  • Computer Information Sciences (1)

    Computer Graphics

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