Johnson & Wales University-Providence logo

Johnson & Wales University-Providence

Providence, RI Private ยท Urban www.jwu.edu
Accept Rate
83.7%
Grad Rate
56.9%
Enrollment
3,913
Avg SAT
1107
Tuition
$40,408
Median Salary
$43,418
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
B
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Johnson & Wales University-Providence offers a hands-on, career-focused environment where experiential learning is central to the student experience. The campus has an urban, tight-knit community feel, blending professional preparation with traditional college life.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

83.7%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 110775th Pctl
9701230
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctl75th Pctl
2026
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight hands-on experience like internships, volunteer work, or creative projects in your application to show your fit for JWUโ€™s experiential learning model. Since the acceptance rate is 83%, applying early can help secure better scholarship opportunities and program placement.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1107
40080012001600
School range: 970โ€“1230

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

JWU is known for culinary arts, nutrition, and hospitality management, with world-class facilities and industry partnerships. It also offers strong programs in business, engineering, and design, emphasizing real-world skills and internships.

Popular Majors

Culinary & Personal Services
38.2%
Business & Marketing
19.2%
Family & Consumer Science
8.3%
Criminal Justice
7.9%
Computer Science
5.5%
Health Professions
5%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
4%
Psychology
3.9%
Communications
2.9%
Biology & Biomedical
1.6%
Agriculture
1.2%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

56.9%
Graduation Rate
76.3%
Retention Rate
3,913
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$40,408
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$32,478
After financial aid
Total Cost
$58,330
Cost of attendance/year
30.2%
Receive Pell Grants
73.5%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Providence

Providence offers a vibrant arts and food scene, with easy access to restaurants, theaters, and waterfront activities. Students enjoy walkable neighborhoods and a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with Boston and NYC just a short train ride away.

Local Rent Check

$1,398 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Providence
Explore Providence

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$161,632
$0Est. 4 Years: $161,632

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($43,418):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The Providence campus has 24/7 campus security and well-lit pathways to ensure student safety. While Providence has urban challenges, the university works closely with local police to maintain a secure environment for students.

Notable Alumni

Emeril Lagasse
Celebrity chef and restaurateur known for his New Orleans cuisine and TV shows.
Tyler Florence
Chef, TV host, and restaurateur with a focus on modern American cooking.
Johnny Iuzzini
Award-winning pastry chef and former head pastry chef at Eleven Madison Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

JWU stands out for its **hands-on, career-focused education**, especially in **culinary arts and hospitality**, with state-of-the-art facilities and real-world learning opportunities.

Admissions are **moderately selective** with an 83.7% acceptance rate; a strong application highlighting relevant experience can improve chances.

JWU has **extensive industry partnerships** that provide internships in hospitality, business, and engineering, often leading to job offers.

Providence offers a **vibrant, student-friendly environment** with arts, food, and culture, plus easy access to larger cities like Boston.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Marriott International Hilton Worldwide Delaware North Starbucks Walt Disney World
Smart Start Score
52

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 4,469
  • In-State Tuition $40,408
  • Zip Code 02903

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 38.1% โ™€ 61.9%

The Money Talk

With tuition at $40,408, JWU provides value through strong career outcomes in hospitality and business fields. Graduates earn a median salary of $43,418, offering a positive ROI for many programs, especially with internships and co-op opportunities.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $40,408
Housing (12 mo) $16,776
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $64,384
With avg financial aid:
$32,478/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.