University of Rhode Island, also known as URI, is a public research university located in the U.S. state of Rhode Island. It is the flagship campus of the University of Rhode Island system and offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees in a variety of disciplines. The university was founded in 1892 as the state’s agricultural school and began offering college-level courses in 1907. URI now has an enrollment of over 17,000 students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries.
URI is classified as a Research University (high research activity) by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and is ranked tied for 171st among all universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges 2020 rankings. The university is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
The main campus of URI is located in Kingston, Rhode Island on 1,200 acres (4.9 km2) bordering Narragansett Bay. The University also operates two other campuses: one in Providence, RI; and one in West Greenwich, RI; as well as eight extension centers throughout the state that offer non-credit courses to both adults and businesses.
The University Of Rhode Island was chartered as Rhode Island’s Agricultural School In 1892 With Morrill Land Grant College Act Funds From Federal Government And matching funds From State Of Rhode island . First Classes Were Held September 7Th , 1893 With 5 Professors , 4 Demonstrators And 53 Students . Today URI Is A Major Public Research One Of Only Four Universities In Northeast . We Have Over 11000 undergraduates And More Than 3000 Graduate Students From All 50 States And Over 100 Countries Attending classes On Our Main Campus In Kingston And at our branch campuses In Providence And West Greenwich .
URI Offers Bachelors Masters Doctoral ,and Professional Degrees Through Eight Colleges And Schools Including Arts And Sciences , Business Administration , Education And Professional Studies , Engineering , Environmental Science Management Nursing Pharmacy Oceanography Institute For Cellular Biology Molecular Medicine Textiles Fisheries Aquaculture Extension There Are Also Opportunities To Study Abroad Or At One Of Our Many Extension Centers Throughout The State .
At URI You Will Find An Engaging Community That prioritizes Student Success Along With Exceptional Faculty Who Are Dedicated To Helping You Achieve Your Goals Whether They Are Earning A Degree To Launch A Career Or Conducting Life – Changing Research As Part Of Their Graduate Studies We Strive For A Diverse Friendly Environment Where Everyone Can Grow Personally Professionally Join Us As We Improve Lives Transform Communities Build A Better Future Together