A History of Growth
91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× 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 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ×
The Roger Williams University Mission is Preparing Future Leaders and Innovators for a Rapidly Changing World
The 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× Vision
At Roger Williams University (91º£½ÇÂÒÂ×), 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.
91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× Core Values
We embed our core values and institutional mission into every aspect of 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ×, 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 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× in exciting new directions. Discover how we are transforming Roger Williams University 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 Roger Williams University education.
The 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× Difference
The 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× 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 Difference91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× is a Top Ranked University
#1
91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× 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 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ×, Rhode Island, 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× is poised to align our efforts and provide what the world needs from a modern, comprehensive university.
Helping Communities Near & Far
91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× 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 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× 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 Roger Williams University, the most impactful education is the one you design for yourself. Through Powerful Combinations of academic programs, internships, research, and student activities, 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× students create unique pathways that align with their passions and set them apart in the job market.
Location Matters
At Roger Williams University, location matters for your education. With two distinctive campuses in 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× and Providence, Rhode Island, 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× 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 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ×
Careers at 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ×
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 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× administrative office for your needs here.
Find an Office91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× Newsmakers
How to Maximize Your Homecoming and Family Weekend Experience
Experience the fun with family, friends, and alumni with everything 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× has to offer at Homecoming and Family weekend.
91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× 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?
91º£½ÇÂÒÂ× Law Professors Peter Margulies and Jared Goldstein debate the legality of the president sending the National Guard into Los Angeles, Chicago, and Portland, Oregon.
Roger Williams University Appoints Three New Trustees to Board
Accomplished leaders in pharmaceuticals, automotive retail, and nonprofit healthcare from Boston, Rhode Island, and Texas join 91º£½ÇÂÒÂ×’s Board.
Roger Williams University 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.
