 | Located in the small coastal town of Bristol, Rhode Island, Roger Williams University is a private coeducational liberal arts college that prides itself on its hands-on, experiential approach to learning and an emphasis on community. Established in 1956, Roger Williams is experiencing a surge in both enrollment and recognition – the student body is the largest it’s ever been, and U.S. News & World Report recently ranked it #36 in its Regional University North Rankings. |
Academic Overview
Well-regarded for its liberal arts programs and its architecture school, Roger Williams University offers more than 40 majors with 13 graduate degrees. Notably, Roger Williams offers one of the only dedicated undergraduate Marine Biology programs in the country. On our recent visit we spoke to several undergraduate students who raved about this program, stating that they loved their professors and that they were able to be engaged in research from their first year. Several commented on their upcoming presentations at professional conferences based on original research they had conducted at RWU.
Well-regarded for its liberal arts programs and its architecture school, Roger Williams University offers more than 40 majors with 13 graduate degrees. Notably, Roger Williams offers one of the only dedicated undergraduate Marine Biology programs in the country. On our recent visit we spoke to several undergraduate students who raved about this program, stating that they loved their professors and that they were able to be engaged in research from their first year. Several commented on their upcoming presentations at professional conferences based on original research they had conducted at RWU.
Marine Biology students at Roger Williams University.
In addition to its offerings in the arts and sciences, Roger Williams is gaining recognition as a professional school. Programs from their Mario J. Gabelli School of Business include Accounting, Economics, Management, Marketing, and Web Development, with a graduate degree offered in Business Law. Some of Roger Williams University’s most popular undergraduate majors are Business, Management, Marketing, Architecture, Law Enforcement, with Psychology, Communications, and Journalism rounding out the list. We spoke to students in the architecture program who showed us their work stations and their three-dimensional dioramas.The work was impressive and they spoke highly of their coursework and professors. Roger Williams also offers a four-year Bachelor of Science, a two-year Master of Science, and a combined, accelerated 4 + 1 (five-year) B.S./M.S. dual degree in Historic Preservation.
| Perhaps more important than the degrees offered, however, is the school’s intimate approach to learning. The student-to-faculty ratio is an impressive 15:1, and almost half of all classes have fewer than 20 students. In contrast to large lecture-style classes commonly offered at larger universities, this allows students and teachers to create a learning experience based on communication and discussion. Campus Life As of the 2016 school year Roger Williams has 4,610 enrolled students, evenly divided between male and |  The marine biology lab at Roger Williams University. |
female. The campus sits on Mount Hope Bay on the Rhode Island coast, offering gorgeous views and direct access to the water for swimming and recreation. The school even offers students free kayak rentals in warm weather. The university’s home, Bristol, RI, is a small suburban city with a variety of dining and shopping options available. Students can enjoy easy trips to nearby cities like Providence, Boston, and even New York.
Eight residence halls offer students living situations from classic dorms to singles apartments with full kitchens. Three-quarters of undergraduates live on campus, and the school has a partnership with JumpOffCampus to help provide students with off-campus housing nearby.
The school’s culture places strong emphasis on clubs and organizations. Students are encouraged to participate in any of dozens of on-campus clubs and organizations, including Film Production Club, Musician’s Guild, and the Foundation of International Medical Relief for Children. From arts to business, there’s something for everyone. Worth noting: there is no Greek life at Roger Williams University.
Eight residence halls offer students living situations from classic dorms to singles apartments with full kitchens. Three-quarters of undergraduates live on campus, and the school has a partnership with JumpOffCampus to help provide students with off-campus housing nearby.
The school’s culture places strong emphasis on clubs and organizations. Students are encouraged to participate in any of dozens of on-campus clubs and organizations, including Film Production Club, Musician’s Guild, and the Foundation of International Medical Relief for Children. From arts to business, there’s something for everyone. Worth noting: there is no Greek life at Roger Williams University.
A work table at the Roger Williams University school of architecture.
Admissions and Costs
Beginning in the fall of 2013, Roger Williams began a test-optional policy, though test scores for students applying to education programs are encouraged. Application requirements include high school transcripts, a letter of recommendation, an application essay of 250-650 words, and extracurricular and AP documentation if applicable. The application deadline for regular decision is February 1.
Tuition is locked-in for the four years of undergraduate study. Over half of students receive need-based financial aid. Students had on average 89% of their financial needs met through scholarships, work-study and loans.
If you’re looking for a small school with a broad range of academic options, an active campus life and scenic ocean views, Roger Williams is an excellent choice. Contact College Docs to learn more about finding the right school for you through our personalized college action plan.
Beginning in the fall of 2013, Roger Williams began a test-optional policy, though test scores for students applying to education programs are encouraged. Application requirements include high school transcripts, a letter of recommendation, an application essay of 250-650 words, and extracurricular and AP documentation if applicable. The application deadline for regular decision is February 1.
Tuition is locked-in for the four years of undergraduate study. Over half of students receive need-based financial aid. Students had on average 89% of their financial needs met through scholarships, work-study and loans.
If you’re looking for a small school with a broad range of academic options, an active campus life and scenic ocean views, Roger Williams is an excellent choice. Contact College Docs to learn more about finding the right school for you through our personalized college action plan.
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