Narragansett, Rhode Island, offers students a unique blend of scenic coastal living and access to quality higher education. Whether you’re seeking a public institution with robust research opportunities or a private college with a tight-knit community, Narragansett and the nearby region have plenty to offer.
Top Public Colleges & Universities in Narragansett, RI
University of Rhode Island (URI) – Located just minutes from Narragansett, URI’s main campus in Kingston is the state’s flagship public university. It’s renowned for its marine sciences, pharmacy, engineering, and business programs.
Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) – Newport County Campus – A short drive from Narragansett, CCRI provides accessible, affordable education. It offers associate degrees, certificate programs, and pathways to four-year universities.
Rhode Island College (RIC) – While located in Providence, RIC is easily accessible from Narragansett. It has well-respected programs in education, nursing, and the performing arts.
Roger Williams University (RWU) – School of Justice Studies (Public Safety Training Facility) – Though most of RWU is private, its public training programs for law enforcement professionals are acclaimed and serve much of southern Rhode Island, including residents of Narragansett.
Naval War College – Located in nearby Newport, this prestigious graduate college is operated by the United States Navy and offers advanced studies in national security, strategy, and international relations for military and civilian leaders.
Top Private Colleges & Universities in Narragansett, RI
Salve Regina University – Situated in historic Newport, just a short drive from Narragansett, Salve Regina is known for its liberal arts, nursing, and international studies programs amid stunning seaside architecture.
Johnson & Wales University – Providence – This private university is nationally recognized for its culinary arts, hospitality, business, and health sciences programs and offers students rich internship opportunities.
Bristol’s Roger Williams University (RWU) – A respected private institution less than an hour away, RWU attracts students interested in architecture, marine biology, criminal justice, and law.
Providence College – This Catholic liberal arts college in Providence is highly regarded for its business, humanities, and pre-law programs, offering a close-knit academic community.
Brown University – An Ivy League leader based in Providence, Brown is just a 40-minute drive from Narragansett and is known worldwide for its open curriculum, research, engineering, and undergraduate teaching.
Whether you are looking for cutting-edge research, hands-on professional training, or a classic liberal arts experience, students from Narragansett have access to some of the best public and private colleges and universities in New England.