Johnson & Wales University-Providence
Acceptance rate
88.4%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$41,982
$61,782 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
3,908
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
46.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 52.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Johnson & Wales University-Providence, founded in 1914, is a private university located in Providence, Rhode Island. Known for its innovative educational approach, the university provides a blend of academic rigor and practical experience, especially in the fields of culinary arts, business, hospitality, and health sciences. The university's motto, "The Future is Yours," encapsulates its commitment to empowering students to become leaders in their respective industries. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, students engage in hands-on projects, internships, and community service, which significantly enhances their employability upon graduation.
The campus culture at Johnson & Wales University-Providence is vibrant and diverse, offering a wide range of student organizations and activities that encourage personal growth and community involvement. From culinary competitions to business case studies, students can immerse themselves in various extracurricular opportunities that complement their academic pursuits. The university also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern kitchens for culinary students and advanced laboratories for health sciences. The strong faculty-student ratio ensures personalized attention and mentorship, contributing to a supportive learning environment. With a focus on career readiness, Johnson & Wales University-Providence has a solid track record of graduate employment, reflecting its dedication to preparing students for successful careers.
Analysis of Key Trends at Johnson & Wales University-Providence
Johnson & Wales University-Providence, a private institution, has witnessed significant shifts in various metrics over the past decade, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates.
Firstly, tuition fees have seen a remarkable increase, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from $27,156 in 2014 to $39,992 in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 47% over a decade, raising concerns about the affordability of higher education for many prospective students. The rise in tuition is accompanied by an increase in room and board costs, which adds to the financial burden on students.
Secondly, the enrollment figures indicate a troubling trend. The number of undergraduate students has decreased significantly, plummeting from 9,525 in 2013 to just 4,158 in 2023, which is a reduction of over 56%. This sharp decline could be reflective of a broader trend in declining enrollment across many universities, potentially influenced by demographic shifts, competition from online education, and changing perceptions of the value of a college degree.
Moreover, graduation rates have shown some improvement, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increasing from approximately 45.7% in 2013 to 52.8% in 2023. While this upward trend is encouraging, it is important to note that the university still faces challenges in retaining students and ensuring they complete their degrees in a timely manner.
Additionally, the student-to-faculty ratio has worsened, falling from 24:1 in 2013 to 14:1 in 2023. This shift indicates a potential decrease in individualized attention students may receive, which could impact their educational experience and outcomes.
In summary, while Johnson & Wales University-Providence has made strides in improving graduation rates, the substantial increase in tuition and the significant drop in student enrollment raise critical questions about the institution's future sustainability and competitiveness in the higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- In Providence
- Nearest international airport
- Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD), about 7 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Joseph Greene (President-Providence Campus)
- Phone
- 4015981000
- City
- Providence, Rhode Island
- Address
- 8 Abbott Park Place, Providence, RI 02903-3703
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 90.1%, women 94.2%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions and Enrollment at Johnson & Wales University-Providence
The admission statistics for Johnson & Wales University-Providence reveal significant trends in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as enrollment numbers over the years. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rate for male applicants has shown an overall positive trend, peaking at approximately 90% in 2020. Meanwhile, female acceptance rates have remained consistently high, reaching about 94% in the same year. This indicates a growing inclusivity within the university, catering effectively to a diverse student population.
The number of students enrolling has fluctuated, with a notable peak in 2010 when over 2,600 students enrolled. However, the most recent years show a decline in the number of students admitted, particularly evident in 2023, where only 994 students enrolled. This decline could reflect broader trends in higher education, where universities are becoming more selective amid increasing application numbers and a focus on quality over quantity.
Moreover, the number of denied applicants has also varied, suggesting competitive admission cycles. The deferred admissions, which peaked in 2017 at over 12,000, indicate a significant number of students considering their options or facing uncertainties during the application process.
Overall, these statistics reflect the changing landscape of college admissions, where universities like Johnson & Wales University-Providence are adapting to new norms and challenges in attracting a suitable and diverse student body. As institutions continue to navigate the post-pandemic educational environment, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the coming years.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 14% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Scores at Johnson & Wales University-Providence
The admission data for Johnson & Wales University-Providence reveals a consistent lack of reported SAT and ACT scores across several years, with the first notable data appearing in 2023. This absence of data in previous years raises questions about the university's transparency and the factors influencing its admissions process.
In 2023, the reported SAT reading scores range from 480 to 610, which suggests a moderate level of academic preparation among admitted students. Additionally, 183 students submitted SAT scores, constituting 18% of the admitted cohort. This relatively low percentage of score submissions may indicate a growing trend of test-optional policies among universities, which allows students to apply without needing standardized test scores.
The absence of ACT data up to 2023 further emphasizes the shift in admissions strategies, as many institutions are re-evaluating the importance of standardized tests in predicting student success. In a landscape where higher education is increasingly accessible and diverse, universities like Johnson & Wales are adapting to meet the needs of a broader applicant pool.
Overall, while the 2023 data provides a glimpse into the university's admissions landscape, the lack of historical data complicates the ability to track trends over time. Future data transparency will be crucial for prospective students and educators alike, as they navigate the evolving requirements and expectations of higher education admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
7,828 applicants in 2025, 88.4% admitted
6,921 admitted 907 not admitted Yield 15.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Physician Assistant · Master's35 (0% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's32 (0% international)
- Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral21 (0% international)
- Systems Science and Theory · Master's12 (83% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Doctoral10 (10% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's8 (25% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Johnson & Wales University-Providence
The graduation data from Johnson & Wales University-Providence for 2023 reveals some intriguing insights, particularly in the fields of Culinary Arts and Criminal Justice. Notably, the Culinary Arts program produced a significant number of graduates, with 77 bachelor's and 109 associate degrees awarded. This highlights the university's strong focus on culinary education, catering to the growing demand for skilled chefs and culinary professionals in the hospitality industry.
In contrast, the Criminal Justice program saw 68 bachelor's graduates but no master's or doctoral candidates. This could suggest that students are entering the workforce directly after obtaining their undergraduate degrees, possibly influenced by the current job market's demand for law enforcement and security professionals amidst increasing concerns over public safety.
Another interesting aspect is the presence of international students, particularly in the Culinary Arts and Baking and Pastry programs, with 4 and 1 respectively at the bachelor's level. This reflects the university's appeal to a global audience, which may enhance the cultural diversity within these programs, an essential factor in culinary education.
However, several programs did not report any graduates, particularly in Health Sciences and Psychology disciplines, indicating either a lack of enrollment or potential program restructuring. This gap could be an area for the university to explore, especially considering the increasing importance of health-related fields post-pandemic.
Overall, the data illustrates the university's strengths in culinary programs while also indicating potential areas for growth and development in other disciplines. As the labor market evolves, institutions like Johnson & Wales may need to adapt their offerings to meet emerging needs.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baking and Pastry Arts/Baker/Pastry Chef. | $36,999-$45,406 | ||||
| Culinary Arts/Chef Training. | $36,999-$45,406 | ||||
| Culinary Science/Culinology. | $36,999-$45,406 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $42,268 | ||||
| Physician Assistant. | $116,732 | ||||
| Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling. | $58,124 | ||||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $58,124 | ||||
| Public Health, General. | - | ||||
| Health Services Administration. | - | ||||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||||
| Dietetics/Dietitian. | $36,993 | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | $42,057 | ||||
| Foodservice Systems Administration/Management. | $42,057 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $40,452-$55,384 | ||||
| Critical Infrastructure Protection. | $75,435 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General. | $44,141 | ||||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $40,287 | ||||
| Industrial and Organizational Psychology. | $48,207 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | ||||
| Computer Graphics. | $39,596 | ||||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - | ||||
| Information Technology Project Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $92,955 | ||||
| Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | $92,955 | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | - | ||||
| Business and Innovation/Entrepreneurship Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Trade and Industrial Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Education, Other. | $53,187 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | ||||
| Systems Science and Theory. | - | ||||
| Data Analytics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horse Husbandry/Equine Science and Management. | - | ||||
| Equestrian/Equine Studies. | - | ||||
| Urban and Community Horticulture. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $36,547 | ||||
| Advertising. | $49,482 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering. | - | ||||
| Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering. | - | ||||
| Engineering, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial and Product Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | - |
Students
4,303 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 82.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,640
- First-year undergraduates 1,089
- Graduate students 395
- Transfers and others 179
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,908)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Johnson & Wales University-Providence in 2023
The student body at Johnson & Wales University-Providence in 2023 showcases a diverse composition, particularly among undergraduate students. The incoming freshmen, totaling 994, exhibit a notable gender distribution with 35.2% identifying as male and 64.8% as female. This trend continues among continuing undergraduates, where 39.6% are male and 60.4% female, indicating a consistent preference for female enrollment in recent years.
Further analysis reveals that minority representation remains a critical aspect of the university's demographics. While detailed data for specific ethnic groups is not fully available for all classifications, a significant portion of the undergraduate freshmen identifies as White, comprising approximately 59.9% of the total freshman class. This is reflective of broader trends in higher education, where White students often account for a substantial percentage of enrollment, though efforts towards inclusivity are increasingly important.
The graduate student population, while smaller at 408, displays an even more pronounced gender disparity, with only 28.9% male students compared to 71.1% female students. This highlights a growing trend in higher education where women are pursuing advanced degrees at higher rates than their male counterparts, a shift that is being observed nationally.
Overall, the data from Johnson & Wales University-Providence illustrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion, though it also indicates areas where further efforts could be made to enhance representation among underrepresented groups. As universities navigate these dynamics, understanding and addressing the needs of a diverse student population will be crucial in fostering an inclusive academic environment.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Johnson & Wales University-Providence
The age distribution of students at Johnson & Wales University-Providence reveals interesting patterns reflective of current educational trends. The majority of the student population is concentrated in the 18-21 age range, particularly among undergraduates. Specifically, students aged 18-19 account for approximately 52.5% of the total student body, while the 20-21 age group makes up around 25.5%. This suggests that the university attracts a significant number of traditional, younger students, which is consistent with many institutions focusing on this demographic.
Moreover, the presence of graduate students, although smaller in number, showcases a healthy diversity in age. The 22-24 age group includes 61 graduate students, indicating that many students pursue advanced degrees shortly after completing their undergraduate studies. Interestingly, there is a notable drop in enrollment for students aged 25 and above, with only 8% of the total population falling into the 25-29 age category and even fewer in older age brackets.
This age distribution is reflective of broader trends in higher education, where younger students dominate the enrollment figures. However, the inclusion of older students, particularly in graduate programs, highlights the university's appeal to non-traditional students seeking further education. As the workforce increasingly values lifelong learning, institutions like Johnson & Wales University must continue to adapt and provide resources for a diverse age range of students, fostering an inclusive educational environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
113 in 2025 · 9.7% in 2016
59 in 2025 · 48.3% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Johnson & Wales University-Providence
The data on international student enrollment at Johnson & Wales University-Providence reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in undergraduate and graduate programs. From 2004 to 2011, the university saw a steady increase in the number of international undergraduates, peaking at 872 students in 2011, which accounted for approximately 9% of the undergraduate population. This trend indicates a growing appeal of the institution among international students during that period.
However, a noticeable decline began in 2019, coinciding with global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic which significantly impacted student mobility worldwide. By 2023, the number of international undergraduates had decreased to 159, representing just 3.82% of the total undergraduate population. This decline reflects broader trends in higher education, where many institutions are grappling with reduced international enrollments due to travel restrictions and changing visa policies.
On the graduate level, the percentage of international students also experienced a decline. From a high of over 58% in 2014, it fell to approximately 10% by 2023. This drastic reduction may be attributed to similar factors affecting undergraduate enrollment, including the pandemic and a potential decrease in global interest in U.S. graduate programs.
The continuing challenges faced by higher education institutions in attracting international students highlight the need for strategic initiatives to revitalize these numbers. Engaging with prospective students through virtual platforms and offering flexible learning options could be key strategies moving forward. Overall, the data presents a critical narrative on the evolving landscape of international education at Johnson & Wales University-Providence.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$61,782
- Undergraduate tuition
- $41,982
- Room and board
- $19,800
- Graduate tuition
- $15,156
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 44% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 53%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$192M
Expenses$200M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Commonwealth Coast Conference
Commonwealth Coast Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 28 | 33 |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | 26 |
| Lacrosse | 29 | 16 |
| Wrestling | 40 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 39 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | - | 38 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Cross Country | - | 30 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Field Hockey | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Equestrian | - | 17 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 29 | 31 |
| Ice Hockey | 27 | 24 |
| Lacrosse | 29 | 20 |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Wrestling | 33 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 14 |
| Field Hockey | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Other Sports | - | 24 |
| Equestrian | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Cross Country | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 29 | 33 |
| Ice Hockey | 29 | 22 |
| Lacrosse | 18 | 20 |
| Wrestling | 38 | - |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 13 | 17 |
| Other Sports | - | 28 |
| Field Hockey | - | 26 |
| Equestrian | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Brown UniversityProvidence · 0.6 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 33.0 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 35.3 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 37.8 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Northeastern UniversityBoston · 39.6 mi
U.S. News #42
-
Boston UniversityBoston · 39.9 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 40.7 mi
U.S. News #1
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 41.2 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 43.4 mi
U.S. News #31
Data insights
Here are some notable nearby schools to Johnson & Wales University-Providence:
-
Brown University - Ranked 9th in the US News 2024 rankings, Brown University is an Ivy League research university located in Providence, Rhode Island. It is known for its flexible curriculum and emphasis on undergraduate education.
-
Wellesley College - Ranked 4th, Wellesley College is a prestigious women's liberal arts college in Wellesley, Massachusetts. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on women's empowerment and leadership.
-
Boston College - With a rank of 39, Boston College is a private research university in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. It combines a strong liberal arts education with a commitment to Jesuit values.
-
Northeastern University - Ranked 53rd, Northeastern University is located in Boston, Massachusetts, and is known for its co-op program that integrates professional experience with academic studies.
-
Harvard University - As the 3rd ranked institution, Harvard University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It offers a wide range of programs and is known for its distinguished faculty and alumni.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-respected in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Johnson & Wales University-Providence
The crime statistics from Johnson & Wales University-Providence over the past decade reveal a significant decline in reported incidents. In 2013, the crime rate was approximately 11.11 per 1,000 students, but this has progressively decreased to just 2.76 per 1,000 students in 2023. This downward trend is particularly notable in offenses such as drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents, which have seen substantial reductions over the years.
The most significant drop appears between 2020 and 2023, where the crime rate fell from 8.99 to 2.76 per 1,000 students. This could be attributed to enhanced campus safety measures, increased awareness, and community engagement initiatives aimed at reducing crime. The university's commitment to providing a safe environment for its students is evident in these statistics.
It's also worth noting that while there has been a decrease in serious offenses such as robbery and assault, the presence of gun-related arrests has been minimal, indicating a relatively low level of violent crime on campus. Overall, the improvement in safety is encouraging for both current and prospective students, reflecting positively on the university's efforts to foster a secure educational environment.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further details can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.