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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Providence College

Providence, Rhode Island · www.providence.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

50.9%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$63,550

$81,390 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

4,236

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

83.0%

4-year; 6-year rate 85.6%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Providence College, located in Providence, Rhode Island, is a private Catholic liberal arts college that was established in 1917. The college is known for its strong emphasis on a liberal arts education, combined with a commitment to the Catholic tradition, which shapes its academic and ethical framework. The college's motto, "Veritas," which means "Truth" in Latin, reflects its dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and truth through education. With a picturesque campus featuring Gothic-style architecture and beautiful green spaces, Providence College creates an inviting environment that fosters academic and personal growth.

The college offers a variety of undergraduate programs across diverse fields of study, including business, education, and the humanities, allowing students to explore their interests and passions. Providence College is particularly renowned for its strong programs in business and finance, drawing students from across the country. The faculty comprises experienced educators and professionals who provide personalized attention and mentorship to students, enhancing their academic experience. Additionally, the college boasts a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that encourage students to engage fully in campus culture. The Friars, the college's athletic teams, compete in NCAA Division I sports, fostering school spirit and camaraderie among students. Providence College not only prepares students for successful careers but also instills a sense of community and responsibility, making it a distinguished institution in higher education.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

The financial landscape of higher education is continually evolving, and Providence College exemplifies this trend with significant changes in tuition fees over the years. Between 2014 and 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students increased from $43,245 to $60,848, representing a substantial rise of approximately 40%. This escalating cost of education is a pressing concern for many families, reflecting a broader national trend where college tuition has outpaced median income growth, making college less accessible.

Accompanying this rise in tuition, the graduation rates for undergraduate students at Providence College have shown some fluctuations. The on-time graduation rate hovered around 80% to 84% from 2013 to 2023, with a notable dip to 81.54% in 2023. This slight decline raises questions about the impact of financial pressures on student completion rates, especially as students may need to work more hours or take on additional debt to afford increasing tuition fees.

Retention rates, however, have remained relatively stable over the same period, with a retention rate of approximately 90% in 2013 gradually declining to around 89.92% in 2023. This stability suggests that while economic pressures may impact graduation timelines, students still find value in their education at Providence College, indicating a commitment to the institution despite the challenges posed by rising costs.

Additionally, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained consistent at 11 to 12 students per faculty member. This ratio is crucial as it often correlates with the quality of education and personalized attention students receive, which may influence both retention and graduation outcomes.

In summary, while Providence College has seen a significant increase in tuition that raises concerns about accessibility and student debt, the relatively stable retention rates and consistent student-to-faculty ratio highlight the institution's strengths. As the cost of education continues to rise, colleges must find ways to support their students in achieving their academic goals.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
In Providence
Nearest international airport
Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD), about 8 mi
Providence, Rhode Island
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Roman Catholic
President
Rev. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P. (President)
Phone
4018651000
City
Providence, Rhode Island
Address
1 Cunningham Square, Providence, RI 02918-0001

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
53.4%
Women
49.1%

In 2020: men 46.3%, women 48.4%.

Data insights

Analysis of Providence College Admission Trends

The admission statistics at Providence College over the years reveal significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, alongside varying enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 51.37%, while for females it was 41.30%. This initial disparity persists through the years, with male acceptance rates gradually increasing until peaking at around 70.16% in 2011. Conversely, female acceptance rates also increased but at a slower pace, peaking at 65.10% in the same year.
As we move towards the later years, we observe a concerning trend where both acceptance rates decline sharply, particularly for male applicants, which fell to 46.35% by 2020. This decline in acceptance rates coincides with a rise in the number of applications, indicating an increasingly competitive landscape for prospective students.
The total enrollment numbers have fluctuated, with a peak enrollment of 1,156 students in 2023. Notably, the number of denied applicants has also risen, reflecting the institution’s rigorous selection process. The data indicates that the college is becoming more selective, likely due to a combination of increased applications and a desire to maintain or improve its ranking.
Overall, these trends highlight a shift towards a more competitive environment at Providence College, aligning with national trends observed in higher education where institutions are experiencing an influx of applications while striving to uphold academic standards and selectivity. This analysis not only sheds light on the admissions landscape at Providence College but also mirrors broader dynamics in the higher education sector.

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

Business School#176▼2
Social Sciences and Humanities2 programs—

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Business School2 programs—

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 · 19% submitted SAT, 5% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1250–1390Peer median 1158
ACT composite29–32
SAT Reading
630–700
600700800
SAT Math
620–690
600700800
ACT composite
29–32
253036

Data insights

Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Providence College

The data from Providence College over the years exhibits a clear trend in standardized test scores, specifically with the SAT and ACT results. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a notable decline in both the number of students submitting their SAT scores and their performance. For instance, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores decreased from 96% in 2007 to just 27% in 2023. This significant drop may suggest a shift in admissions policies or an increasing trend towards test-optional admissions, which has gained traction in recent years among many institutions.

The SAT reading and math scores also reflect a downward trajectory. In 2007, the 25th percentile for SAT reading was 540, while by 2023, it had risen to 640, indicating a higher standard for the lowest-scoring admitted students. This upward shift for the 75th percentile also implies that the overall academic caliber of the admitted students may be improving, despite the declining number of submissions.

Moreover, the reduction in the number of applicants submitting SAT scores from nearly a thousand in 2007 to merely 313 in 2023 raises questions about the impact of standardized testing on college admissions. The increasing acceptance of alternative assessment methods can provide a more holistic view of a candidate's abilities, aligning with broader educational reforms that prioritize diverse measures of student potential.

As colleges continue to adapt to changing educational landscapes, the data from Providence College indicates an evolving approach to admissions that may ultimately benefit students by offering a more inclusive environment.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 5 in 10

12,521 applicants in 2025, 50.9% admitted

6,372 admitted 6,149 not admitted Yield 19.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate30 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's1,00910 international (1.0%)
Master's22710 international (4.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Finance, General
167
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
120
Psychology, General
104
Business Administration and Management, General
79
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
73
Accounting
55
Political Science and Government, General
52
Health/Health Care Administration/Management
48
Economics, General
42
Special Education and Teaching, General
34

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's91 (2% international)
  • Business Statistics · Master's24 (0% international)
  • Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's20 (5% international)
  • Higher Education/Higher Education Administration · Master's19 (5% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's16 (0% international)
  • International/Globalization Studies · Master's10 (40% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Data at Providence College in 2023

The graduation data from Providence College reveals notable trends in various fields of study. A significant observation is the dominance of the Business Administration program, which produced 104 master's graduates, alongside 0 bachelor's graduates. This highlights a strong emphasis on advanced education within business disciplines, likely reflecting the increasing demand for higher-level qualifications in the competitive job market.

Additionally, the Finance program stands out with 156 bachelor's graduates, indicating its popularity among undergraduate students. The presence of 1 international student among these graduates suggests a growing interest in this field from global students, albeit still relatively low compared to other disciplines.

In the field of Psychology, 89 bachelor's graduates were recorded, with a modest representation of 3 international students. This suggests that psychology remains a popular choice among local students, potentially driven by the increasing awareness of mental health issues in society.

Interestingly, several programs, particularly in humanities and foreign languages, show no graduates reported for 2023. This could indicate a declining interest or enrollment in these areas, which may warrant further investigation into curriculum relevance and job market alignment.

Overall, the data from Providence College reflects current educational trends, with strong performances in business-related disciplines, while also highlighting areas that may need revitalization to attract more students. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, adapting curricula to meet market demands will be essential for future success.

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

Businesshas 543 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$65,027-$82,365
Accounting.$78,900
Finance, General.$75,735
Organizational Behavior Studies.-
Business Statistics.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$61,971
Social sciencehas 130 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Social Sciences, General.-
Economics, General.$70,081
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics.$70,081
Political Science and Government, General.$50,739
Sociology, General.$45,865
Educationhas 126 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$69,271
Higher Education/Higher Education Administration.$69,271
Urban Education and Leadership.$69,271
Special Education and Teaching, General.$52,699
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.$55,211
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.$59,014
Mathematics Teacher Education.$59,014
Music Teacher Education.$59,014
Reading Teacher Education.$59,014
Biology Teacher Education.$59,014
History Teacher Education.$59,014
Spanish Language Teacher Education.$59,014
Biologyhas 105 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$46,526
Biochemistry.-
Environmental Biology.-
Neuroscience.-
Psychology has 104 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$47,748
Health professionshas 48 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$55,781
Computer and information sciencehas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer Science.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
International/Globalization Studies.$51,154
History has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.$33,143
English has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.$43,415
Creative Writing.-
Theology has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Bible/Biblical Studies.-
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Visual and Performing artshas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.$73,824
Liberal arts has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.-
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other.-
Physical scienceshas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Philosophy has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Philosophy.-
Public administrationhas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Community Organization and Advocacy.-
Social Work.-
Engineeringhas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Pre-Engineering.-
Engineering Physics/Applied Physics.-
Engineering Science.-
Cultural has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
American/United States Studies/Civilization.-
African-American/Black Studies.-
Women's Studies.-
Foreign languages has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
French Language and Literature.-
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other.-
Communications technologies has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician.-

Students

4,666 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 94.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,236)

White
3,355 · 79.2%
Hispanic
373 · 8.8%
Unknown
165 · 3.9%
Two or more races
109 · 2.6%
Black
101 · 2.4%
International
71 · 1.7%
Asian
57 · 1.3%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.3%
18–19
52.0%
20–21
39.6%
22–24
5.7%
25 and over
1.5%

Graduate students

Under 22
2.6%
22–24
53.3%
25–29
15.8%
30–34
7.0%
35 and over
21.4%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Providence College in 2023

The student population at Providence College in 2023 reflects a diverse and dynamic academic environment. With a total of 4,476 students across various classifications, the undergraduate newcomers (freshmen) represent a significant cohort of 1,156 students, of which 46.5% are male and 53.5% are female. This slight female majority is consistent with national trends in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.

Continuing undergraduates account for 2,702 students, maintaining a similar gender distribution with 45.4% male and 54.6% female. This trend suggests that female students are not only enrolling in higher numbers but also persisting in their studies at the same institution. The transfer students, though a smaller group at 101 individuals, show a contrasting gender ratio with 53.5% male and 46.5% female, indicating a potential shift in the demographics of transfer students compared to the traditional freshmen and continuing students.

Graduate students, numbering 477, exhibit a more pronounced gender imbalance, with 39.2% male and 60.8% female. This disparity highlights an increasing trend in graduate education where women are increasingly represented, a trend supported by various studies indicating that women are pursuing advanced degrees in larger numbers.

Ethnic diversity within these groups is noteworthy, particularly among the freshmen, where white students constitute the majority. However, it is essential to note that the data on ethnic breakdowns for other classifications remains incomplete, leaving room for further exploration into the diversity of the overall student body. Overall, Providence College demonstrates a commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment, with shifting demographics that reflect broader societal trends in education.

Age Composition of Students at Providence College in 2023

The age distribution of students at Providence College in 2023 reveals significant insights into the demographics of the student body. The data shows a predominance of younger students, particularly in the 18-19 age group, which comprises a substantial portion of the undergraduate population. Male students in this category number 889, while female students total 1,074, indicating that the college has a higher enrollment of females in this age bracket.

As students progress into their twenties, the numbers remain strong but show a slight decline. The 20-21 age group consists of 740 male and 912 female undergraduate students, maintaining a similar gender trend observed in the younger cohort. However, as we examine the age groups from 22 to 24, there is a noticeable drop in enrollment, particularly among men, which could reflect a variety of factors including graduation rates and the decision to enter the workforce or pursue graduate studies.

The data also indicates a growing number of non-traditional students, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age categories, where there is a balanced representation of both genders. This trend aligns with national observations of increasing numbers of older students returning to education, often as they seek new career opportunities or personal growth.

Overall, the gender balance shifts slightly in favor of female students across most age categories, which is consistent with broader trends in higher education where women have been enrolling in greater numbers than men. The presence of older students enriches the academic environment, providing diverse perspectives and experiences that benefit the entire college community.

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.

Undergraduates1.7%

71 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.2%2017: 2.1%2018: 2.0%2019: 1.9%2020: 1.9%2021: 1.6%2022: 1.5%2023: 1.8%2024: 1.5%2025: 1.7%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students4.2%

18 in 2025 · 2.6% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.6%2017: 3.2%2018: 2.3%2019: 2.6%2020: 1.7%2021: 2.1%2022: 3.0%2023: 4.0%2024: 5.2%2025: 4.2%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Providence College

The data on international student enrollment at Providence College reveals notable trends over the years, reflecting broader patterns in higher education. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students increased significantly, rising from 0.42% to 1.80%. This gradual increase suggests that the college has been actively attracting a more diverse student body, likely in response to globalization and the increasing demand for international education.

The number of international graduate students shows an even more pronounced growth, with the percentage rising from 0.44% in 2004 to an impressive 3.98% in 2023. This rise can be attributed to various factors, including the college's efforts to enhance its programs and appeal to a global audience. The higher percentages in graduate programs may also reflect the increasing importance of advanced degrees in a competitive job market, encouraging more international students to seek education abroad.

Moreover, the fluctuations in enrollment figures, particularly during the years of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlight the challenges faced by institutions in maintaining international student numbers. The dip in 2020, with only 1.88% of undergraduates and 1.72% of graduates being international, underscores the impact of global events on higher education.

Overall, the upward trend in international student enrollment at Providence College illustrates the institution's commitment to fostering a global learning environment, which is essential in today's interconnected world. As colleges and universities continue to navigate the complexities of international education, it will be crucial for them to adapt and respond to changing dynamics to attract and support students from diverse backgrounds.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$81,390

Undergraduate tuition
$63,550
Room and board
$17,840
Graduate tuition
$13,440
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 40% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 33%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$311M

Tuition and fees
$169M54.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$67.6M21.7%
Investment return
$34.4M11.1%
Gifts and private grants
$22.9M7.4%
Government grants and contracts
$10.3M3.3%
Other
$7.0M2.3%

Expenses$274M

Auxiliary enterprises
$88.3M32.2%
Instruction
$82.0M29.9%
Institutional support
$56.7M20.7%
Academic support
$24.2M8.8%
Student services
$19.0M6.9%
Research
$4.1M1.5%

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.

All faculty
$109,712peers $68,006
Professor
$140,511peers $78,041
Associate professor
$116,718peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$90,958peers $63,827
Instructor
$81,320peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Big East Conference

Big East Conference: basketball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division I without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)8693
Soccer4031
Swimming2833
Lacrosse54-
Ice Hockey2825
Basketball1615
Field Hockey-25
Softball-23
Volleyball-17
Tennis-11
2024
NCAA Division I without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6992
Swimming3233
Soccer3328
Lacrosse53-
Ice Hockey2725
Basketball1616
Field Hockey-25
Softball-23
Volleyball-15
Tennis-10
2023
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6674
Swimming3332
Soccer3328
Ice Hockey2926
Lacrosse53-
Basketball1412
Field Hockey-23
Softball-21
Volleyball-15
Tennis-9

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable institutions near Providence College:

  1. Brown University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, Brown University is an Ivy League institution known for its unique open curriculum that allows students to design their own educational paths.

  2. Wellesley College - This prestigious women's college ranks 4th and is renowned for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and empowering women leaders.

  3. College of the Holy Cross - Ranked 27th, this Jesuit liberal arts college is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to the development of the whole person.

  4. Boston College - With a rank of 39, Boston College combines a strong liberal arts tradition with a commitment to Jesuit values and service to others.

  5. Northeastern University - Ranked 53rd, Northeastern is well-known for its emphasis on experiential learning, particularly through its cooperative education program.

These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and are recognized for their excellence in higher education.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
1,173
Rape
14
Dating violence
10
Fondling
8
Burglary
4
Motor vehicle theft
3

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Providence College

The crime statistics at Providence College from 2013 to 2023 reveal a concerning trend in campus safety, particularly with the noticeable fluctuations in the average number of crimes per 1,000 students. The data shows a significant spike in crime rates in 2020, with an average of 38.80 incidents per 1,000 students. This peak could potentially be attributed to the unique challenges posed by the pandemic, which may have altered typical student behavior and campus dynamics.

Throughout the years, various types of offenses have been recorded, including gun arrests, drug-related incidents, and alcohol-related arrests. The overall increase from 2013 to 2020 indicates a growing concern regarding student safety and campus crime. Although there seems to be a slight decrease in crime rates in subsequent years, the numbers remain relatively high compared to earlier years, suggesting that the college administration must prioritize safety measures and preventive strategies.

Moreover, the prevalence of violent crimes such as domestic violence and assault, alongside property crimes like theft and robbery, underscores the complexity of issues faced by students today. Colleges across the United States are increasingly focusing on enhancing campus security, implementing educational programs, and fostering a supportive environment to address these challenges.

As students and parents consider campus safety, it is crucial to analyze these statistics critically and advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of the student body. For further information on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link.

Notable Alumni

All 60

Notable alumni of Providence College include Janeane Garofalo (Comedian and actress), Lenny Wilkens (NBA player and coach, three-time Hall of Famer) and Frank Caprio (Providence municipal judge, star of Caught in Providence).

See all 60 notable alumni of Providence College →

Recent News at Providence College

Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.

0Updates in the past 12 months
Sep 2024Latest update
CampusMost common topic
  1. Athletics

    An economic impact study conducted by Econsult Solutions, Inc. found that Providence College Athletics generates an estimated total annual economic impact of $100.3 million for the state of Rhode Island.

    Source: thericatholic.com

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.