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Roger Williams University

Bristol, RI

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Magna Est Veritas

1956
Founded
Private university
Type
140 acres
Campus
3,957
Total Students
4,103
Undergrad
294
Graduate
$93M
Endowment
(2024)
$43K
Tuition (In-State)
$43K
Tuition (Out-State)
$38K
Avg Net Price
88%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Graduation Rate
6-year
79%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Ioannis Miaoulis

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Roger Williams University

Experience academic growth and a vibrant waterfront campus at Roger Williams University.

Roger Williams University offers a dynamic educational experience rooted in a rich history of growth and adaptation. What began as a branch campus of Northeastern University in 1919 has blossomed into a thriving private university known for its stunning 80-acre waterfront campus in Bristol, Rhode Island. The university is dedicated to providing an engaging environment where students can pursue their academic passions while benefiting from a strong sense of community and a commitment to diverse perspectives.

Prospective students will discover a university that prides itself on evolving with the times. From its humble beginnings as a YMCA Institute granting associate's degrees, to becoming Roger Williams Junior College, then Roger Williams College, and finally earning university status in 1992, RWU has consistently expanded its offerings and vision. This dedication to progress, coupled with its picturesque coastal location, makes RWU an appealing choice for those seeking a transformative college experience.

Under the leadership of President Ioannis Miaoulis, appointed in 2019, Roger Williams University continues its commitment to a forward-thinking approach. The university also demonstrated a dedication to student support through an innovative tuition freeze policy, active from 2012 to 2019, which guaranteed tuition stability for incoming freshmen. This ethos, coupled with a diverse student body and a commitment to academic excellence, prepares students to make a meaningful impact in a changing world.

The university’s embrace of diversity and cultural richness is a hallmark, famously highlighted through its recognition of The Beach Boys’ 1971 concert, which saw the band evolve into a pioneering multi-cultural group. This historical event underscores RWU’s commitment to an inclusive environment, echoing its motto, "Magna Est Veritas" – Great is the Truth. With its beautiful campus, dedicated faculty, and a supportive community, Roger Williams University offers an education that extends beyond the classroom.

Key Highlights

  • A private university founded in 1956, with a vibrant community of 4,397 students.
  • Located on a beautiful 80-acre waterfront campus in Bristol, Rhode Island.
  • Evolved from a branch campus in 1919 to a comprehensive university in 1992.
  • Led by President Ioannis Miaoulis, appointed in 2019.
  • Features an endowment of $0.1 billion supporting its academic mission and student resources.
  • Operates under the inspiring Latin motto, "Magna Est Veritas" (Great is the Truth).
  • Emphasizes diversity and inclusion, reflected in its history and student experience.

Timeline

1919
Northeastern University opens a branch campus in Providence, initiating operations.
1948
The YMCA Institute grants its first associate's degrees.
1956
Receives a state charter, becoming a two-year, degree-granting institution named Roger Williams Junior College.
1967
Adopts the name Roger Williams College, reflecting its expanding bachelor's degree offerings.
1969
Moves its main campus to 80 acres of waterfront land in Bristol.
1992
Led by President Dr. Natale A. Sicuro, the institution changes its name to Roger Williams University.
2006
Celebrates its 50th anniversary as a chartered degree-granting institution.
2012
Initiates a tuition freeze guaranteeing no tuition increase for entering freshmen over four years.
2019
Ioannis Miaoulis is appointed the eleventh president; the tuition freeze policy is terminated.
🏛️
70 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Roger Williams University

⚖️

Roger Williams University School of Law

Established concurrently with the university's transition to Roger Williams University in 1992, offering professional legal education.

Leadership

Ioannis Miaoulis
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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