Providence College

Providence, RI 02918-0001 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 85/100 | ROI Score: -66 | Affordability Score: 55/100

Tuition (In-State): $63,550 | Out-of-State: $63,550

Acceptance Rate: 50.9% | Graduation Rate: 86.8% | Retention Rate: 94.0%

Median Earnings (10yr): $87,054 | Median Debt: $27,000

SAT Average: 1346 | ACT Midpoint: 29

Student Body Size: 4,229 (medium)

Pell Grant Recipients: 13.4% | Federal Loan Rate: 57.0%

Average Faculty Salary: $12,190/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Providence College is $63,550 per year, which is 61% above the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $63,550/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $254,200 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Providence College:

Families earning $0–$30,000: $28,152/year
Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $21,835/year
Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $25,296/year
Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $33,169/year
Families earning $110,000+: $56,699/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $35,398/year, paying just 44% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

Providence College has an acceptance rate of 50.9%, placing it in the Moderately Selective (50–70%) category. This means roughly 2,078 students apply each year.

The average SAT score of admitted students is 1346, 27% above the national average. This reflects a strong academic student body.

The ACT midpoint is 29, 38% above the national average.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

86.8% of students at Providence College complete their degree, 40% above the national average. This is an excellent graduation rate, indicating strong student support and engagement.

First-year retention rate: 94.0% (16% above the national average). A retention rate above 90% signals high student satisfaction and strong first-year experience programs.

Graduates of Providence College earn a median salary of $87,054 ten years after enrollment, 113% above the national average. This represents a $52,054/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $1,561,620 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $27,000, 26% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $293/month, with a total repayment of $35,160 (including $8,160 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.31x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Providence College pays for itself in approximately 5 years. This is an excellent return on investment.

Financial Aid Profile

13.4% of students at Providence College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 59% below the national average. A lower Pell rate suggests the student body skews toward higher-income families. Merit aid may be more prevalent than need-based aid.

57.0% of students take federal loans, 21% above the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $12,190/month, 40% above the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Providence College enrolls 4,229 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.

Diversity Index: 36/100 (higher = more diverse). The student body is less diverse than average.

Student body composition: White 79%, Hispanic 9%, Black 2%, Asian 1%.

Providence College: Strong Academic Outcomes and High Earnings Potential

Providence College: A Solid Northeast Launchpad with a Price Tag to Match
Beyond the Friar: Unpacking Providence College's Career Outcomes and ROI
The Providence Advantage: How Location and Network Shape PC Grads' Futures

Report Card: Overall Grade C-

Providence College receives an overall grade of C- based on six dimensions:

Academics: B-
Value: F
Outcomes: A
Affordability: D

College Analysis

Providence College is a Private Nonprofit institution in Providence, RI with approximately 4,229 students. Providence College has a strong graduation rate and high median earnings, indicating good academic and career outcomes. The college offers a diverse student body, with a significant percentage of Hispanic students, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity. Providence College has a relatively high median debt, which could be a concern for students and their families. The college's tuition is high, but the median earnings after 10 years are significantly above the national average, suggesting a positive ROI.

The Verdict: Is Providence College Worth It?

Providence College presents a complex value proposition. With an out-of-state tuition of $63,550 and median 10-year earnings of $87,054, the initial cost is substantial. The median debt of $27,000, while not exorbitant, adds to the financial burden. The ROI score of -66 suggests that, on average, graduates take a considerable amount of time to recoup their investment, especially when factoring in living expenses and potential further education. The earnings are respectable, but the high sticker price and moderate debt mean that the financial return is not immediate or guaranteed for all. It's not an outright bad deal, but it's certainly not a clear financial win without careful consideration of major choice and post-graduation career path. Graduates aiming for high-paying fields like finance or consulting in major hubs might see a quicker payoff, while those entering lower-paying sectors or pursuing further education will face a longer road to financial breakeven. It's a significant investment that requires a strategic approach to maximize its financial worth.

Return on Investment

Despite the high tuition and debt, the high earnings potential and strong academic outcomes suggest that the degree is worth the cost for many students.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Providence College: $27,000. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $307/month. Total repaid: $36,840 ($9,840 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 0.5 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $36,840.

Strengths

Strong academic outcomes and high earnings potential
Diverse student body with a significant Hispanic population
High-quality education and career readiness

Weaknesses

High tuition and median debt
Limited extracurricular activities compared to some peers
Higher cost of living in Providence, Rhode Island

Academic Profile

SAT Average: 1346. ACT Midpoint: 29. Retention Rate: 94.0%.

Providence College prides itself on a rigorous liberal arts education grounded in the Dominican tradition of inquiry and service. While the College offers a broad range of undergraduate programs, certain departments stand out for their national recognition and strong alumni networks. The School of Business, particularly its Finance and Marketing programs, is highly regarded. The History, Political Science, and English departments are also robust, preparing students for diverse career paths and graduate studies. For students seeking an enriched academic experience, the Liberal Arts Honors Program offers smaller class sizes, interdisciplinary seminars, and opportunities for independent research. Undergraduate research is actively encouraged, with faculty often involving students in their scholarly pursuits, particularly within the sciences and humanities. Providence College's commitment to global education is evident in its diverse study abroad programs, with popular destinations including Florence, Italy (a PC-specific program), Ireland, and Spain. Academic support is readily available through the Center for Academic Achievement, offering tutoring, writing support, and academic advising. The student-faculty ratio, while not explicitly provided, is generally low at institutions of this size and type, suggesting ample opportunity for personalized attention from faculty. The faculty are known for their accessibility and dedication to undergraduate teaching.

Financial Aid Guide for Providence College

Pell Grant recipients: 13.4%. Students taking federal loans: 57.0%.

Navigating financial aid at Providence College requires understanding their commitment to both merit-based and need-based aid. As a private institution with a sticker price of $63,550, a significant portion of the student body receives some form of financial assistance. Providence College offers a range of scholarships, including academic scholarships awarded automatically based on admission credentials, and endowed scholarships that may require separate applications and are often tied to specific majors or backgrounds. For instance, academic scholarships can range from a few thousand dollars to a substantial portion of tuition. Need-based aid is determined through the FAFSA and CSS Profile, and the College strives to meet a significant portion of demonstrated need through a combination of grants, institutional scholarships, and federal aid. Work-study opportunities are also available, providing students with on-campus employment to help cover living expenses. Typical aid packages for middle-income families might include a mix of institutional grants and federal loans, potentially reducing the net cost by $20,000-$40,000 annually. For lower-income families, the College aims to provide more substantial grant aid. While Providence College does not explicitly state a policy on aid negotiation, it is generally advisable for families with compelling circumstances (e.g., significant change in financial situation, competing offers from similarly ranked institutions) to contact the financial aid office to discuss their situation. Scholarship tips include applying early for both admission and scholarships, highlighting leadership and community service in applications, and exploring external scholarship opportunities.

Hidden Costs at Providence College

Room and board costs can add an estimated $17,000 - $19,000 per academic year, depending on the chosen meal plan and housing assignment.
Textbooks and course materials can range from $1,000 to $1,500 annually, with costs varying significantly by major and course.
Student activity fees, which support campus organizations and events, typically amount to around $200 - $300 per semester.
Personal expenses, including toiletries, laundry, entertainment, and travel, can easily add $2,000 - $3,000 per year.
Transportation costs for students who travel home frequently or explore the city of Providence can range from $500 to $1,500 annually.
Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan, can cost upwards of $3,000 per year through the college's plan.
Parking permits for students who bring cars to campus can cost between $200 and $400 per academic year.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Providence College graduates are well-positioned for careers, particularly within the Northeast corridor. Major employers actively recruiting from Providence include financial services giants like Fidelity Investments, Putnam Investments, and Bank of America, as well as consulting firms such as Deloitte and EY. The healthcare sector is another significant area, with hospitals like Rhode Island Hospital and healthcare systems in the Boston area being common destinations. Alumni also cluster in education, with many finding roles in school districts and universities across New England. While specific graduate school placement rates are not readily available, the college's strong academic reputation suggests a solid pathway for those pursuing advanced degrees in law, business, and medicine. Notable alumni include former MLB Commissioner Bud Selig and actor/producer John O'Hurley. Providence College's Career Services offers robust support, including resume workshops, mock interviews, and career fairs, fostering strong internship pipelines. Many students secure internships at companies like CVS Health, Hasbro, and various startups in the Providence and Boston tech scenes. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong concentration of alumni in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, with significant numbers also finding opportunities in New York City and Washington D.C., particularly in finance, law, and government.

Campus Life & Culture at Providence College

Providence College attracts a student body that is largely from the Northeast, with a significant representation from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York. The College fosters a community that values intellectual engagement, personal growth, and a commitment to service, making it an ideal environment for students who are both academically driven and socially conscious. The student who thrives here is often one who appreciates a close-knit campus, engages actively in extracurriculars, and is drawn to the College's Catholic and Dominican values.

Providence College, a vibrant Catholic and Dominican institution, cultivates a close-knit campus community with a distinctively 'Friar' spirit. The vibe here is often described as friendly, engaged, and academically focused, yet with ample opportunities for social engagement. Most undergraduates live on campus for all four years, fostering a strong sense of community. The residence halls range from traditional dorms to apartment-style living, with many students finding their niche in the various themed housing options. The dining experience is centered around the Aquinas Hall Dining Hall, offering a variety of stations, with additional retail locations like the 'Slavin Center' providing grab-and-go options and late-night study fuel. Student organizations are abundant, covering everything from academic clubs and cultural groups to service organizations and intramural sports. The Providence College Players and the PC Dance Team are popular performance groups. While Greek life exists, it's not the dominant social force it is at some other universities, with many students finding their social circles through clubs, campus events, and residence halls. Athletics are a significant part of campus life, with the Friars competing in the Big East Conference. Men's and women's hockey, basketball, and soccer often draw large crowds, especially during big games at the Schneider Arena and the Chace Athletic Center. The campus itself, with its beautiful Gothic architecture and central Harkins Quad, provides a picturesque setting for student life. Weekend activities often involve campus-sponsored events, exploring the nearby city of Providence, or simply gathering with friends in common spaces.

Campus Highlights

The historic Gothic architecture, particularly the iconic Harkins Quad, creates a picturesque and traditional New England campus feel.
The strong Dominican Catholic tradition fosters a unique sense of community, intellectual inquiry, and service-oriented learning.
The College's own study abroad program in Florence, Italy, offers an immersive cultural and academic experience.
The vibrant Division I athletics program, especially men's and women's hockey and basketball, generates significant school spirit.
The close-knit community where students often live on campus for all four years, fostering deep connections.
The emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities, allowing students to collaborate closely with faculty.
The convenient location in Providence, Rhode Island, offering access to a thriving arts and cultural scene and internship opportunities.

Location & Regional Advantages

Providence, Rhode Island, offers a unique blend of urban amenities and a manageable cost of living, providing a strategic advantage for Providence College students. The local job market, while not as vast as Boston's, is robust in sectors like healthcare, education, and finance, with major employers such as CVS Health and Brown University providing ample opportunities. The proximity to Boston, a major hub for biotech, tech, and finance, is a significant draw, allowing students to access internships and job opportunities in a larger metropolitan area with relative ease via a short train ride. The quality of life in Providence is high, characterized by a vibrant arts and culture scene, a burgeoning culinary landscape, and a more relaxed pace than larger cities. While weather is typical New England, the city is generally considered safe and offers a strong sense of community. This location facilitates a strong regional network, enabling graduates to build careers within Rhode Island or leverage the proximity to other major East Coast cities for broader career exploration.

How to Get Into Providence College

Providence College, with an admission rate hovering around 50.9%, is a selective institution that values a well-rounded applicant with a strong academic record and a clear sense of purpose. While the College does not currently publish average GPA or test score ranges, successful applicants typically demonstrate a GPA of 3.5 or higher and competitive standardized test scores if submitted. Providence College offers Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) options. Applying ED can provide a slight advantage due to demonstrated commitment, but EA is also a strong option for those who want to apply early without the binding commitment. The admissions committee looks beyond grades and scores, seeking students who will contribute to the vibrant campus community. Essays are crucial; focus on authentic storytelling that highlights your personal growth, intellectual curiosity, or commitment to service – themes that resonate with PC's Dominican Catholic identity. Demonstrated interest is considered, so engaging with the college through virtual or in-person information sessions, campus tours, and thoughtful communication with the admissions office is recommended. The ideal timeline is to have your application completed by the ED/EA deadlines (typically November 1st for ED/EA, and January 15th for Regular Decision) to maximize your chances and allow ample time for financial aid applications.

How Providence College Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Boston College, Holy Cross, Stonehill College, Roger Williams University

Advantages

Stronger alumni network in the immediate Providence area.
More integrated internship opportunities within Rhode Island's key industries (e.g., healthcare, insurance).
Potentially more accessible faculty interaction due to smaller class sizes compared to larger universities.

Disadvantages

Lower national brand recognition compared to schools like Boston College.
Fewer direct pipelines into highly competitive national graduate programs or top-tier global corporations.
Limited research facilities and opportunities compared to larger research universities.

Best For

Prospective students who prioritize low tuition and debt may want to consider other options.
Students seeking a more diverse range of extracurricular activities might find other institutions better suited to their needs.

Avoid If

Students looking for a more affordable education with lower tuition costs should explore other options.
Those seeking a more diverse student body with a higher percentage of underrepresented students might find other colleges more suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions about Providence College

How much does it cost to attend Providence College?

In-state tuition at Providence College is $63,550 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $63,550 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $27,000.

What is the acceptance rate at Providence College?

Providence College has an acceptance rate of 50.9%.

What is the graduation rate at Providence College?

Providence College has a graduation rate of 86.8%.

How much do Providence College graduates earn?

The median earnings for Providence College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $87,054. With median debt of $27,000, graduates earn roughly 3.2x their debt level annually.

How big is Providence College?

Providence College has approximately 4,229 students and is classified as a medium institution. It is located in Providence, RI and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Providence College worth the cost?

Providence College has an ROI score of -66 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $63,550 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $87,054, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Providence College located?

Providence College is located in Providence, RI. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 4,229 students.

How much student debt do Providence College graduates have?

The median student debt for Providence College graduates is $27,000. With median earnings of $87,054 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 31%.

Is Providence College a good college?

Providence College has a graduation rate of 86.8% and median post-graduation earnings of $87,054. High graduation rate of 86.81%

How does Providence College compare to similar colleges?

Median earnings of $87,054 after 10 years Compared to peer institutions, Providence College offers a strong academic experience and high earnings potential, but with higher tuition and debt.

What career prospects do Providence College graduates have?

Graduates of Providence College are well-positioned for successful careers in various fields, with high earning potential.

What should prospective students know about Providence College?

Providence College holds a strong position in the market, offering a combination of high-quality education and career readiness.

What makes Providence College stand out?

Significant Hispanic student population (8.82%)

What are the pros and cons of attending Providence College?

High median debt of $27,000

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.