Best Universities in Bristol: Fees, Courses & Ranking for 2025

Bristol, Rhode Island, doesn't on the face of it seem the sort of place you'd find big-name universities. But in fact that's what makes it interesting. Tucked between the water and the sound, it's where you find Roger Williams University, a private school that emphasizes small classes, mentors willing to help you in your work outside class, and preparing students for the real world. It's a place where you actually get to know your professors, and your degree doesn't cost you your place in a community.

1. Roger Williams University, Rhode Island

Established in 1956 by Rhode Island co-founder William J. Russell, RWU is a private institution enrolling around 4,400 students. With a small class (14:1 student-faculty ratio), notable programs include marine biology, architecture, historic preservation, engineering, business, and law. 
 

Students are well-served by real-world internships, like marine science shark study, with an 81% freshman retention rate and a six-year graduation rate of 67%. A lively, inclusive atmosphere is fostered by its suburban, waterfront campus.

Roger Williams University – Key Details
 

With an 88% acceptance rate and a 14:1 student–faculty ratio, Roger Williams University offers a supportive, low-pressure academic environment that still delivers quality in fields like Marine Biology, Architecture, and Law. Most students get generous financial aid, and the high freshman retention rate suggests people tend to stick around—for good reason. It's a smart pick if you're looking for a mid-sized, career-focused university where real attention from faculty isn't just a brochure promise.