nursingadmissionscareersRhode Island

Best Nursing Schools in Rhode Island: Programs, Tuition & How to Apply

GradeToGrad Editorial Team

March 8, 2026

Rhode Island offers 5 nursing programs from $5,326 at CCRI to $47,930 at Salve Regina, with nursing graduates earning $62,973 to $141,941.

Overview of Nursing Education in Rhode Island

Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it offers 5 solid nursing programs ranging from an affordable community college ADN to advanced university degrees. The state's compact geography means every program is within easy driving distance, and its strong healthcare sector — anchored by Lifespan and Care New England health systems — provides excellent clinical placement and employment opportunities.

Top University Nursing Programs

University of Rhode Island (Kingston) is the state's flagship, offering Master's-level nursing programs with graduates earning $115,106/year. In-state tuition is $16,408 with a 77.1% acceptance rate and 71.4% graduation rate.

Rhode Island College (Providence) delivers the strongest nursing earnings in the state at $141,941/year for Master's graduates. At $10,986/year in-state tuition and 81.1% acceptance, it's an accessible and high-value option.

Salve Regina University (Newport) offers BSN programs at $47,930/year with graduates earning $74,932/year. The 69.9% acceptance rate and 75.2% graduation rate reflect a focused program.

New England Institute of Technology (East Greenwich) provides BSN programs at $35,625/year with nursing graduates earning $86,470/year.

Community College Nursing Programs

Community College of Rhode Island (Warwick) is the sole community college option, serving 11,455 students at just $5,326/year. ADN graduates earn $62,973/year. CCRI's nursing program has articulation agreements with URI and RIC for ADN-to-BSN bridges.

How to Choose the Right Program

With only 5 programs, the decision is straightforward:

Budget path: CCRI for ADN ($5,326/year) then bridge to BSN
Best value BSN: Rhode Island College ($10,986/year, $141,941 earnings)
Flagship experience: URI ($16,408/year, $115,106 earnings)
Private university: Salve Regina or NEIT

Nursing Job Market in Rhode Island

Rhode Island's healthcare sector is a major employer. Lifespan (including Rhode Island Hospital and Miriam Hospital), Care New England, and CharterCARE consistently hire nurses. The state's aging population drives steady demand across all specialties.

Financial Aid

Rhode Island Promise Scholarship — free tuition at CCRI for recent high school graduates
RI State Grant — need-based aid for residents
Federal aid — Pell Grants and loans at all programs

Next Steps

Explore Rhode Island nursing programs on GradeToGrad.