Rankings / By State

Best Master's Programs in Rhode Island

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 10 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$70,009

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

73%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$33,883

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right master's program can be a pivotal moment, especially in a small state like Rhode Island, where options may feel limited but opportunities abound. With average earnings for graduates in this list reaching $70,009, we see that a degree can lead to meaningful financial outcomes.

What sets these programs apart is not just prestige but tangible results. Metrics like graduation rates, average earnings, and student debt levels highlight the effectiveness of these institutions in preparing graduates for the job market. The schools listed below have demonstrated strong outcomes, and understanding these figures can help inform your decision.

For instance, Brown University leads with an impressive earning potential of $93,487 and a graduation rate of 96%, while Rhode Island College shows a stark contrast with earnings of $56,318 and only a 47% graduation rate. This difference illustrates how program performance can significantly impact your future prospects and financial well-being.

Key Findings

Brown University's graduates earn an average of $93,487, the highest in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island College has a graduation rate of only 47%, far below the state average of 73%.

The average student debt across these programs is $22,494, with some schools significantly exceeding this figure.

Bryant University graduates earn $90,008, but also face a higher net price of $41,219.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 10

Avg. earnings at 10yr $70,009

Avg. graduation rate 73%

Avg. net price $33,883

Avg. median debt $23,164

How We Ranked

Master's programs in Rhode Island ranked by graduate outcomes

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Brown University

Providence, RI

Graduation96%

Earnings$93,487

Net Price$25,184

View full profile →

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI

Graduation47%

Earnings$56,318

Net Price$9,478

View full profile →

University of Rhode Island

Kingston, RI

Graduation72%

Earnings$69,743

Net Price$21,440

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

With a 96% graduation rate, Brown University demonstrates a strong commitment to student success, making it a compelling choice for those seeking an academically rigorous environment. Located in Providence, Rhode Island, the university's unique open curriculum allows students to tailor their education, fostering intellectual independence and creativity.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

Rhode Island College plays a vital role in higher education for many local students. With an acceptance rate of 92%, it welcomes a diverse student body, making it an accessible option for those looking to pursue their dreams closer to home, especially for those who may need extra academic support along the way.

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings

University of Rhode Island

Kingston, RI · 13,381 students · Public

University of Rhode Island is a vibrant public university with a well-rounded student experience, attracting over 13,000 students. With a graduation rate of 72%, it combines a supportive academic environment with opportunities for growth outside the classroom, making it a great option for students looking for a balanced college life.

72% accepted 72% graduate $69,743 earnings

University's full profile

Bryant University

Smithfield, RI · 3,194 students · Private nonprofit

Bryant University is known for its strong focus on business education, attracting students who are keen on developing their leadership abilities in a practical context. With an 80% graduation rate, the school emphasizes student engagement and success, which is reflected in its tight-knit community and innovative approach to learning in Smithfield, Rhode Island.

65% accepted 80% graduate $90,008 earnings

Bryant's full profile

Providence College

Providence, RI · 4,229 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 87%, Providence College is a destination for students who are serious about their education and future. The school's solid academic reputation translates into impressive median earnings of $87,054 at ten years post-graduation, suggesting that graduates are well-prepared for the job market and find success in their careers.

51% accepted 87% graduate $87,054 earnings

Providence's full profile

Salve Regina University

Newport, RI · 2,121 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in picturesque Newport, Salve Regina University attracts students looking for a blend of academic rigor and a stunning coastal environment. Despite a graduation rate of 76%, many students find their niche here, leading to median earnings of $72,975 a decade after graduation, which reflects the university's emphasis on practical, career-oriented education.

68% accepted 76% graduate $72,975 earnings

Rhode Island School of Design

Providence, RI · 2,084 students · Private nonprofit

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is a haven for creative minds, with a remarkable graduation rate of 89%, signaling strong student engagement and support. Graduates can expect to earn a median of $68,140 within ten years, which reflects the valuable skills and networks developed during their time here in a competitive art and design market.

19% accepted 89% graduate $68,140 earnings

Roger Williams University

Bristol, RI · 3,946 students · Private nonprofit

Roger Williams University in Bristol offers a vibrant community for students, with a graduation rate of 68% that reflects diverse academic paths and support systems. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $70,266 at ten years post-graduation, which indicates that the university prepares students for solid careers across various fields.

88% accepted 68% graduate $70,266 earnings

New England Institute of Technology

East Greenwich, RI · 1,718 students · Private nonprofit

With a focus on practical education, the New England Institute of Technology in East Greenwich has a unique appeal to students eager to dive straight into their careers. The median earnings of graduates reach $48,684 within a decade, suggesting that many students find solid employment opportunities after completing their studies. This school has a diverse student body, with 43% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and support for those who may need it most.

67% accepted 59% graduate $48,684 earnings

Johnson & Wales University-Providence

Providence, RI · 3,868 students · Private nonprofit

Johnson & Wales University in Providence emphasizes experiential learning, making it an attractive option for students interested in fields like culinary arts, business, and hospitality. The school’s acceptance rate of 88% indicates a welcoming environment for a diverse range of students, while the median earnings of $43,418 at ten years post-graduation highlight the value of its programs in preparing students for successful careers. With a vibrant campus culture, students can expect to engage deeply in their studies and extracurricular activities alike.

88% accepted 55% graduate $43,418 earnings

Johnson's full profile

Comparing Brown University and Rhode Island College reveals a significant disparity in outcomes that many might overlook. Brown’s graduates enjoy earnings of $93,487, in stark contrast to Rhode Island College's $56,318. Additionally, Brown boasts a graduation rate of 96%, while Rhode Island College lags at just 47%. This illustrates how the quality of education can directly affect both earnings and completion rates.

As you consider these programs, reflect on your priorities. Do you value high earning potential over lower debt? Would a program with a higher graduation rate sway your decision? Weigh the financial implications of each school against factors like program fit and campus culture. Finding a balance that aligns with your goals is essential.

Ultimately, this data highlights the importance of making informed choices about education. A master's degree can be a pathway to a stable career, but it’s crucial to choose a program that aligns with your financial and personal aspirations. Each family faces its own unique challenges, and selecting the right school can make a significant difference in achieving long-term success.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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