University of Rhode Island
About University of Rhode Island
The University of Rhode Island is a leading public research university committed to academic excellence and innovation. URI offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering a vibrant learning community and preparing students for success in a global society.
location_city City, State & Campus Insights
Explore life, weather, culture, transit, and demographics around University of Rhode Island
groups 1. City Size & State Population
Kingston (part of South Kingstown)
198.8 sq km / 76.7 sq mi (for South Kingstown)
31,909 (South Kingstown, 2020 estimate)
1.09 Million (Rhode Island, 2023 estimate)
Density: 160.5 people per sq km / 415.7 people per sq mi (South Kingstown)
thermostat 2. Monthly Climate (Jan – Dec)
attractions 3. Top Places to Visit Nearby
Narragansett Town Beach
BeachA popular sandy beach known for its surfing, sunbathing, and vibrant atmosphere, located just a short drive from URI.
Point Judith Lighthouse
LandmarkAn iconic historic lighthouse offering scenic views of the Rhode Island coastline and Block Island Sound.
South County Museum
MuseumA museum dedicated to preserving the agricultural and rural heritage of South County, featuring historical buildings and exhibits.
Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Nature ReserveA protected area offering walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and diverse coastal habitats.
restaurant 4. Top Local Foods & Cuisines
Clam Chowder
A creamy, flavorful soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, and often bacon, a staple of New England cuisine.
Calamari
Rhode Island is known for its calamari, often served fried with hot peppers and garlic butter.
Coffee Milk
Rhode Island's official state drink, made by mixing coffee syrup with milk, a sweet and unique local beverage.
diversity_3 5. Racial & Demographic Composition
Kingston and the surrounding South Kingstown area are predominantly White, with smaller but growing populations of other racial and ethnic groups, reflecting a generally less diverse demographic than larger urban centers in Rhode Island.
workspace_premium 6. Notable University Alumni & Figures
Viola Davis
Academy Award, Emmy Award, and Tony Award-winning actress, known for her roles in 'The Help', 'Fences', and 'How to Get Away with Murder'.
Christiane Amanpour
Renowned British-Iranian journalist and television host, chief international anchor for CNN and host of CNN's 'Amanpour.' (Attended URI but did not graduate)
Napoleon L. Bonaparte
Former professional American football player who played running back for the St. Louis Cardinals.
directions_bus 7. Transportation & Getting Around
Transportation in Kingston and South Kingstown primarily relies on personal vehicles. Public transport options are limited but connect to some key areas. The state of Rhode Island offers more extensive regional transit.
Public Transit (Buses)
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) operates bus routes that serve the URI campus and connect South Kingstown to other towns and cities in Rhode Island, including Providence. Fares are standard for RIPTA services.
Walking & Cycling
The URI campus is walkable, and surrounding areas have some pedestrian infrastructure. Cycling is popular, especially for recreation, with some dedicated bike paths and scenic routes. However, general infrastructure for daily cycling commutes outside campus is moderate.
Regional Rail & Airport
The nearest major airport is T.F. Green Airport (PVD) in Warwick, about 30-40 minutes north. Amtrak provides regional rail service from nearby Kingston Station, connecting to major cities like Boston and New York City.
school 8. Education & Literacy Level
99%
42.7% (Rhode Island, 2022)
Rhode Island boasts a highly educated populace, with a significant percentage of adults holding bachelor's degrees or higher. The state has several well-regarded universities and colleges, contributing to a strong academic ecosystem. Kingston itself, as a university town, benefits from a high concentration of educated individuals and a focus on research and higher learning.
trending_up 9. Main Source of Economy & Industries
Rhode Island's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from healthcare, education, tourism, and manufacturing. The coastal location also supports marine-related industries. South Kingstown's economy is influenced by the university and local services.
Key Driving Industries
Major Corporate Employers
Popular Programs
View All CoursesNo programs listed yet. Check back soon!
Admissions Info
Application Period
Main intake starts in September. Applications are typically accepted from October to January for the following academic year.
Fees & Living Costs
Tuition Fees / Year
$15,546.00 - $37,574.00
Living Expenses / Year
$12,000.00 - $20,000.00
* Costs are estimated. Actual fees may vary by course and lifestyle.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Need-Blind Admission
Financial need is not considered during the admission process for both domestic and international students.
Campus Life
Student Reviews
login Login to ReviewBased on 0 Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!