Providence College
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
- 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
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
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
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
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)
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Economics, General. | $70,081 | |||
| Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | $70,081 | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $50,739 | |||
| Sociology, General. | $45,865 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $46,526 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Environmental Biology. | - | |||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $47,748 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $55,781 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | $51,154 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $33,143 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $43,415 | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | |||
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $73,824 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - | |||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - | |||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community Organization and Advocacy. | - | |||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - | |||
| Engineering Physics/Applied Physics. | - | |||
| Engineering Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American/United States Studies/Civilization. | - | |||
| African-American/Black Studies. | - | |||
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | |||
| Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician. | - |
Students
4,666 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 94.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,948
- First-year undergraduates 1,222
- Graduate students 430
- Transfers and others 66
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,236)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
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.
71 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016
18 in 2025 · 2.6% in 2016
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
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
Expenses$274M
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 · Big East Conference
Big East Conference: basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 86 | 93 |
| Soccer | 40 | 31 |
| Swimming | 28 | 33 |
| Lacrosse | 54 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | 25 |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Tennis | - | 11 |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 69 | 92 |
| Swimming | 32 | 33 |
| Soccer | 33 | 28 |
| Lacrosse | 53 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 27 | 25 |
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Field Hockey | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Tennis | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 66 | 74 |
| Swimming | 33 | 32 |
| Soccer | 33 | 28 |
| Ice Hockey | 29 | 26 |
| Lacrosse | 53 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 12 |
| Field Hockey | - | 23 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Tennis | - | 9 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Brown UniversityProvidence · 2.1 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 31.7 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 33.3 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 36.8 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Northeastern UniversityBoston · 38.7 mi
U.S. News #42
-
Boston UniversityBoston · 39.0 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 39.8 mi
U.S. News #1
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 40.2 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 42.4 mi
U.S. News #31
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Providence College:
-
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.
-
Wellesley College - This prestigious women's college ranks 4th and is renowned for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and empowering women leaders.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
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
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 60Notable 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).
-
Janeane Garofalo 1964–
Comedian and actress
-
Lenny Wilkens 1937–2025
NBA player and coach, three-time Hall of Famer
-
Frank Caprio 1936–2025
Providence municipal judge, star of Caught in Providence
-
Chris Dodd 1944–
Former U.S. senator from Connecticut
-
Robert Gallo 1937–
Biomedical researcher who helped establish HIV as cause of AIDS
-
Peter Farrelly 1956–
Film director and screenwriter, one of the Farrelly brothers
-
John O'Hurley 1954–
Actor, comedian and game show host
-
Kris Dunn 1994–
NBA player, fifth overall pick in 2016
-
MarShon Brooks 1989–
Former professional basketball shooting guard
Recent News at Providence College
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
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
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.