A History of Growth
ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ started in 1956 as a junior college inside the Broad Street YMCA in Providence. We now offer more than 75 programs on two campuses.
Learn more about our historyABOUT ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ
The ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Mission is Preparing Future Leaders and Innovators for a Rapidly Changing World
The ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Vision
At ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ (ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ), we empower students to become successful leaders and innovators in today’s dynamic and competitive landscape. Our unique educational approach emphasizes original research, engaged learning, and hands-on experiences through apprenticeships, practicums, and clinical opportunities. These real-world experiences, both on and off-campus, ensure that our students are career-ready and equipped to thrive immediately in the workforce while laying the foundation for ongoing career advancement.
ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Core Values
We embed our core values and institutional mission into every aspect of ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. By seeking interdisciplinary connections and developing innovative ideas, we transform these insights into collective action, strengthening our capabilities and guiding ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ in exciting new directions. Discover how we are transforming ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ into a more distinctive, resilient, and enduring institution, dedicated to preparing our graduates for success in their careers and contributions to society.
These core values will help us to achieve our institutional mission – to build the university the world needs now.
- We will meet the educational needs of a diverse, multigenerational community of learners.
- We will work with local and global communities to address problems that matter most to society.
- We will provide transformative educational experiences to all students, enabling them to fulfill their potential as lifelong learners, professionals, and citizens.
- We will create a community in which diversity is visible in its population and culture, and by implementing explicit institution-wide practices that advance equity and belonging.
- We will commit to ongoing collaborations that promote education, inquiry, and the implementation of sustainable practices, enhancing both human and environmental well-being on our campuses and within our communities.
- We will be financially accessible to all who aspire to a ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ education.
The ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Difference
The ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Difference is defined by what distinguishes our students: engaging in real-world learning, leveraging powerful combinations of experiences, and recognizing the significance of location to help you soar like a hawk.
Explore the DifferenceÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ is a Top Ranked University
#1
Bristol was ranked the Safest College Town in the U.S. by in 2022
#35
Best Regional University
in the Northeast
#1
Best Online Colleges
in Rhode Island by in their 2024 rankings
Strategic Action Plan
With our unique mix of liberal arts and professional programs, top-notch faculty, the state’s only law school, and hubs of innovation in Providence and Bristol, Rhode Island, ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ is poised to align our efforts and provide what the world needs from a modern, comprehensive university.
Helping Communities Near & Far
ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ is dedicated to engaged, hands-on learning and teaching that helps strengthen society. Every student is provided the opportunity to participate in a real-world learning experience that helps a community partner locally or globally. School of Law students offer pro bono legal services, with many completing more than 100 hours of service before graduation. Every ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ student makes an impact on our society – from working in the Rhode Island community to participating in a study-abroad program overseas.
Powerful Combinations
At ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ, the most impactful education is the one you design for yourself. Through Powerful Combinations of academic programs, internships, research, and student activities, ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ students create unique pathways that align with their passions and set them apart in the job market.
Location Matters
At ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ, location matters for your education. With two distinctive campuses in Bristol and Providence, Rhode Island, ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ offers the perfect balance of a safe, close-knit waterfront community and a vibrant urban hub. Our students thrive in a university that is just the right size—small classes, strong faculty mentorship, and access to hands-on experiences in Rhode Island, Boston, New York, and beyond.
More About ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ
Careers at ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ
View open employment opportunities and learn more about joining our devoted community of students, faculty and staff.
Explore Open Positions
Administrative Offices
Looking for assistance? Find the appropriate ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ administrative office for your needs here.
Find an OfficeÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Newsmakers
How to Maximize Your Homecoming and Family Weekend Experience
Experience the fun with family, friends, and alumni with everything ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ has to offer at Homecoming and Family weekend.
ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Students Lead the Way in Undergraduate Research and Discovery
At the 2025 Summer Research Showcase, students from across disciplines presented their findings on topics ranging from marine conservation to advanced materials science.
Is It Legal for Trump To Send Troops Into U.S. Cities?
ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Law Professors Peter Margulies and Jared Goldstein debate the legality of the president sending the National Guard into Los Angeles, Chicago, and Portland, Oregon.
ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Announces New Shawmut Scholars Cohort, Advancing Partnership that Builds the Next Generation of Construction Leaders
Four first-year students earn four-year, full-tuition scholarships with paid internships, mentorship, and professional development through the Shawmut Scholars program.
R.I. Health Leaders Set the Record Straight on Tylenol, Vaccines, and Autism
ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Professor of Public Health Jacquline Cottle and the R.I. Public Health Institute’s Amy Nunn weigh in on public health matters ranging from COVID-19 shots to measles outbreaks to food dyes.
