Rankings and Recognitions

RWU's Commitment to Excellence

At Roger Williams University, our rankings and accolades demonstrate our strong commitment to real-world learning, student success, and inclusive excellence. From national honors to top regional distinctions, RWU continues to be recognized as a university of choice—where students engage in hands-on experiences and achieve greater heights in their careers and lives. Discover how our programs, values, and community members are making a positive impact and gaining recognition nationwide.

27.6%

of undergraduate students are the first in their families to attend college.

$78 million 

 is awarded annually in financial aid to students.

19,694 hours 

of pro bono legal services were provided by law students at the School of Law.

RWU Offers A Top College Food Experience

RWU was ranked No. 21 in America and No. 2 in Rhode Island on Niche’s 2026 Best College Food list. Roger Williams University students returned this fall to a refreshed Upper Commons, following a summer-long $2 million renovation project designed to expand dining options, highlight sustainability, and enhance the student experience. 

RWU School of Law: Recognized for Innovation and Impact

#11

Top Law School for Social Justice by The National Jurist 2026

preLaw Top School for Public Service 2025-2026

Top School

Top School for Public Service from preLaw 2025-2026

Top School

Top School for Environmental Law from preLaw

 

PreLaw Justice & Opportunity Honors Law Schools Expanding Opportunity 2025-2026

Honors

Justice & Opportunity Honors for Law Schools Expanding Opportunity from preLaw

#13

Faculty Teaching and Accessibility from Princeton Review’s Best Law Schools

 

preLaw Best Schools for Social Justice 2025-2026

Best

Best Schools for Social Justice from preLaw 2025-2026

RWU’s Official Carnegie Classifications

RWU received recognition in 2022 as a Research College and University, a classification that recognizes non-doctoral colleges and universities with significant research activity. Roger Williams is one of only two institutions in RI with this classification.

Safety First

Bristol, R.I.,  was ranked the #1 Safest Town in Rhode Island by Safewise 2025. In 2022, Bristol was ranked the #1 Safest College Town in America by Safewise.

Bristol was also ranked the #3 Safest College Town in America for 2026 by Research.com.

Leading with Purpose, Inclusion, and Service

RWU News

Excellence in Education and Experience

96% 

of RWU graduates find success in employment or graduate school within six months of graduation

 

Nationally Recognized Programs at RWU