Providence College
The Vibe Check
Providence College feels like a tight-knit, spirited community where everyone knows your name, anchored by Gothic-style stone buildings and a classic quad. It's a place where school pride runs deep, especially around basketball season, and the Dominican Catholic tradition fosters a strong sense of service and discussion-based learning.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
PC is renowned for its rigorous, discussion-based Core Curriculum that ensures a broad liberal arts foundation for all students. The Friars are known for exceptional teaching and mentorship, with strong programs in Business, Biology, and the Social Sciences, complemented by unique opportunities like the Providence Plan for off-campus urban study.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Providence
Students take advantage of Providence's vibrant arts and food scene, often exploring the nearby Thayer Street for shops and restaurants or the historic Federal Hill for Italian cuisine. The city offers a youthful energy with WaterFire events, minor league sports, and easy access to Boston and NYC for weekend trips.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($87,054):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus itself is considered very safe with 24/7 security and a well-lit, enclosed layout. The surrounding urban neighborhood of Providence is generally safe, but students are advised to be aware of their surroundings when venturing off-campus into the city.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Exceptional undergraduate teaching and faculty mentorship
- ✓ Powerful, loyal alumni network for post-grad opportunities
- ✓ Vibrant school spirit, especially around men's basketball
- ✓ Rigorous Core Curriculum provides a well-rounded education
Cons
- ✗ Very high net price with limited Pell Grant student percentage
- ✗ Campus can feel insular or 'bubble-like' for some students
- ✗ Limited research opportunities for undergraduates compared to larger universities
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Providence College is best known for its rigorous, mandatory Core Curriculum rooted in the Dominican tradition, which emphasizes philosophy and theology alongside the liberal arts. It is also highly recognized for its elite men's basketball program and strong, tight-knit alumni network in the Northeast, particularly in business, education, and law.
Yes, with an acceptance rate of 48.72%, Providence College is a moderately selective institution. While the average SAT score is 1342, the school is test-optional. Admissions value a strong GPA, a compelling essay, and demonstrated interest in the school's unique academic mission.
Campus life is defined by a strong sense of community and school spirit. Students are required to live on campus for three years, fostering a close-knit environment where Division I basketball games are major social events. The urban setting allows for easy access to city amenities while maintaining a traditional campus feel.
For the right student, the value is strong. The 86.7% graduation rate is excellent, and the 10-year median earnings of $87,054 are competitive. The investment is most worthwhile for students who actively engage with the alumni network and pursue high-earning majors like Business, though the high net price requires careful financial planning.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1917
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 4,447
- In-State Tuition $60,848
- Zip Code 02918
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price over $60k and a net price of roughly $45k, PC is a significant financial investment. However, the strong graduation rate and 10-year median earnings of $87k suggest a solid return on investment, particularly for students who leverage the powerful alumni network in business and education.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.