About Us

The University of Rhode Island is a diverse and dynamic community whose members are connected by a common quest for knowledge.

As a major research university defined by innovation and big thinking, URI offers its undergraduate, graduate, and professional students distinctive educational opportunities designed to meet the global challenges of today’s world and the rapidly evolving needs of tomorrow. URI was named the No. 1 public university in New England by The Wall Street Journal and achieved prestigious Carnegie R1 status, signifying its standing as one of the nation’s leading research institutions.

Founded in 1892, and enrolling more than 17,000 students, URI is Rhode Island's flagship public research institution and a major economic and innovation driver for the state. Some 200 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs inspire students and spark their creativity. With an increasingly diverse community of students, scholars, and researchers, URI’s global reach and influence is expanding. The University has significantly grown its partnerships and industry relationships over the past decade in ways that enhance innovation and contribute to broad economic development for the state and region.

Located in close proximity to major U.S. economic and government hubs, including Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C, the University is uniquely positioned, both geographically and strategically, to contribute to globally impactful innovation and discovery.