🥇
$65,656
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
96.9
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best artificial intelligence degree programs: Brown, Providence College, Rhode Island College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $9,481 to $65,656/year
Rhode Island College offers the most affordable option at $9,481/yr
Artificial Intelligence degree programs available: 1 master's, 2 doctoral in Rhode Island
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Major employers: Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank, FM Global
Tech hubs in Providence and Warwick
Hakia Research 2026
Artificial Intelligence degree programs near 11+ cities across Rhode Island
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Rhode Island Artificial Intelligence programs
We rank 9 accredited artificial intelligence programs in Rhode Island using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Rhode Island Worth It?
Answer
$103,450
Yes. The best artificial intelligence degree programs in Rhode Island deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $103,450 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $34,939/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Artificial Intelligence Degree Rankings in Rhode Island
Compare the top-ranked Artificial Intelligence programs in Rhode Island by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Programs in Rhode Island
6
Programs ranked
$38,410
Avg tuition/yr
66%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island ranks among the nation's top destinations for artificial intelligence education, with 6 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 1 public and 5 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Brown, Providence College, Rhode Island College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Rhode Island artificial intelligence programs earn a median salary of $87,933, 10% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Providence, Warwick, Cranston metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $9,481 to $65,656 annually, with an average of $38,410/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 66%, with the highest reaching 96%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Rhode Island's leading technology employers. For students seeking artificial intelligence degrees in Rhode Island, these top-ranked artificial intelligence schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
#4
$39,792
Tuition/yr
53.4
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Johnson & Wales University-Online | Providence, RI | Private | $13,365 | 13% | 36.0 |
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Programs in Rhode Island
1
Programs ranked
$65,656
Avg tuition/yr
96%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island offers 1 master's degree programs in artificial intelligence, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Brown, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Rhode Island earn a median salary of $103,450, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Providence, Warwick, Cranston creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $65,656/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Rhode Island's artificial intelligence schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
🥇
$65,656
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
96.8
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Artificial Intelligence Programs in Rhode Island
2
Programs ranked
$39,886
Avg tuition/yr
96%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island is home to 2 doctoral programs in artificial intelligence, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Brown, U of Rhode Island are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Rhode Island PhD holders earning a median of $129,313, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Providence, Warwick, Cranston region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Rhode Island programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing artificial intelligence degrees in Rhode Island, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Artificial Intelligence Degree Costs & Tuition in Rhode Island
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $34,939/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $87,348/year |
| Community college tuition | $8,735/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $209,636 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $52,408 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Artificial Intelligence Students in Rhode Island
State Aid Programs
Rhode Island students pursuing artificial intelligence degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The federal government offers grants, loans, and work-study opportunities through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), which all students should complete first (Federal Student Aid). Additionally, Rhode Island provides the Rhode Island Promise program, which covers tuition at the Community College of Rhode Island for qualifying recent high school graduates, making it an excellent pathway for students beginning their AI education at the associate level before transferring to a four-year institution.
Key Programs & Amounts
Many of Rhode Island's top AI programs offer institutional scholarships and merit-based aid. Brown University and Providence College, ranked among the best bachelor's AI programs in the state, provide significant institutional financial aid packages. For more affordable options, Rhode Island College and the University of Rhode Island offer competitive tuition rates alongside state and federal aid opportunities. Students should also explore the College Scorecard to compare net price and aid availability across Rhode Island institutions. For detailed information about state-specific aid programs, the Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner provides comprehensive guidance on grants, loans, and scholarships available to state residents.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator, Rhode Island
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree in Rhode Island. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1064%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,967,896
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$147,619
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,003,304
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$155,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.5%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Artificial Intelligence Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Rhode Island metro areas
Providence$114K
Warwick$109K
Cranston$103K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Providence | $114K |
| Warwick | $109K |
| Cranston | $103K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Artificial Intelligence Graduates in Rhode Island
Find artificial intelligence jobs in Rhode Island. These major employers across Rhode Island metro areas are actively hiring artificial intelligence degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Providence
RICVS Health
healthcare
Citizens Financial Group
finance
Fidelity Investments
finance
Infosys
consulting
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Warwick
RIGTECH/IGT
gaming-tech
Amica Insurance
insurance
Transfer Pathways for Artificial Intelligence Degrees in Rhode Island
State Transfer System
Rhode Island's higher education system facilitates smooth transfer pathways for artificial intelligence students through the Rhode Island Transfer Agreements, which enable students to progress from two-year to four-year institutions without losing credits or progress. The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) serves as the primary pathway institution, offering associate's degree programs in AI and related fields at an affordable $4,856 annual tuition. CCRI's artificial intelligence and computer science curricula align with bachelor's programs at state universities including University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and other four-year partners. This alignment ensures that students completing CCRI's associate degree can seamlessly transition to upper-level coursework at bachelor's degree programs, reducing both time and cost to degree completion.
How Transfers Work
The Rhode Island Transfer Agreements standardize course articulation and credit acceptance across 2 two-year institutions and 13 four-year institutions, enabling predictable academic progression. Students beginning at CCRI can apply completed coursework toward bachelor's degrees at universities like University of Rhode Island ($14,116 tuition) or Rhode Island College ($9,481 tuition), both offering strong AI programs. Additionally, the Rhode Island Promise covers tuition at community colleges for qualifying recent high school graduates, making the initial transfer pathway exceptionally affordable. Students interested in online pathways can explore University of Rhode Island's online bachelor's program or Roger Williams University online options. For comprehensive guidance, consult the Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner and institution transfer advisors to maximize credit transfer and financial aid eligibility.
Why Pursue an Artificial Intelligence Degree in Rhode Island?
Industry & Workforce
Rhode Island offers a strong landscape for artificial intelligence education, with 10 institutions offering AI programs across multiple degree levels (IPEDS). The state awarded 290 bachelor's degrees, 129 master's degrees, and 16 doctoral degrees in artificial intelligence in 2023, demonstrating strong educational pathways from foundational to advanced study. This concentration of programs positions Rhode Island as a meaningful hub for AI talent development in the Northeast, particularly through flagship institutions like Brown University, which alone accounts for 348 completions across all degree levels. Students benefit from proximity to major employers in the Providence-Warwick metro area, including healthcare giants like Lifespan and Care New England, as well as CVS Health, which increasingly leverage AI technologies in operations and innovation.
Salary Outlook
The affordability of Rhode Island's public institutions makes AI education accessible to diverse students. Average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions stands at $11,799, significantly lower than the out-of-state average of $29,263 (College Scorecard). Rhode Island College leads affordability at $9,481 annually, while the state's Rhode Island Promise initiative covers tuition at community colleges for qualifying high school graduates (Rhode Island Promise). Beyond tuition advantages, students gain exposure to advanced research and industry partnerships through top-ranked programs. Explore related fields like Machine Learning in Rhode Island and Data Science in Rhode Island to understand complementary career pathways. For national context, see our Best Bachelor's Programs and Most Affordable Programs nationally.
Artificial Intelligence Program Availability in Rhode Island
7 Programs
Rhode Island offers 7 accredited artificial intelligence programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Providence, Warwick, Cranston.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Artificial Intelligence Job Market & Salary Data in Rhode Island
Employment Outlook
Rhode Island's artificial intelligence job market is experiencing steady growth, supported by a strong educational pipeline and strategic employer presence across the state. The Providence-Warwick metropolitan area serves as the primary hub for AI employment, with opportunities spanning healthcare, retail, and research sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state's technology and computing fields continue to expand, creating pathways for AI graduates from institutions like Brown University, which has produced 348 completions in artificial intelligence programs, far exceeding other state institutions. The concentration of employers in Providence and surrounding areas including Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket creates a localized job market with competitive compensation and growth potential.
Salaries by Metro
Educational institutions throughout Rhode Island are preparing students for this growing market. With 10 institutions offering AI programs across bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, and 290 bachelor's completions annually, the state produces a steady stream of qualified candidates. Students pursuing AI degrees in Rhode Island benefit from proximity to major employers and the ability to leverage College Scorecard data to evaluate career outcomes. The state's transfer system, facilitated by Rhode Island Transfer Agreements, also allows community college students to transition into four-year AI programs, broadening the talent pipeline. For students interested in related fields, exploring Machine Learning in Rhode Island and Data Science in Rhode Island programs can provide additional career flexibility in the evolving tech landscape.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Rhode Island$67,243$150,003
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Artificial Intelligence Programs in Rhode Island
Online Programs
0 available in Rhode Island
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$31,445/yr$34,939/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Artificial Intelligence Programs in Other States
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 70
- Median Tuition
- $44,500
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Connecticut
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $44,100
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 177
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 62
- Median Tuition
- $8,600
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 112
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Colorado
- Total Programs
- 17
- Median Tuition
- $13,900
Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Rhode Island: FAQ
What are the best artificial intelligence degree programs in Rhode Island?
The best artificial intelligence degree programs in Rhode Island based on our methodology are: 1) Brown University (96% graduation rate), 2) Providence College, and 3) Rhode Island College. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Rhode Island offers 7 total accredited programs across 2 public and 5 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 6 bachelor's programs.
How much do artificial intelligence degree programs cost in Rhode Island?
Artificial Intelligence degree program costs in Rhode Island vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $34,939/year, while private institutions average $76,866/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $8,735/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $139,756 at public schools to $307,463 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can artificial intelligence degree graduates earn in Rhode Island?
Artificial Intelligence professionals in Rhode Island earn a median salary of $103,450, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $67,243, while senior roles exceed $150,003. Salaries vary by metro area: Providence ($113,795), Warwick ($108,623) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online artificial intelligence degree programs in Rhode Island?
Yes, Rhode Island offers 0 accredited online Artificial Intelligence programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire artificial intelligence degree graduates in Rhode Island?
Major Artificial Intelligence employers in Rhode Island include Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank, FM Global, Textron. The Providence and Warwick metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Rhode Island universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Rhode Island's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an artificial intelligence degree program worth it in Rhode Island?
An artificial intelligence degree program in Rhode Island offers strong ROI with a $103,450 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $34,939/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($116,898), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do artificial intelligence degree programs take in Rhode Island?
Standard completion times for artificial intelligence degree programs in Rhode Island are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Rhode Island community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Rhode Island university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for artificial intelligence degree students in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island artificial intelligence degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Rhode Island state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Rhode Island's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Rhode Island salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Thanks for your feedback!
How can we improve this article?
Thank you for helping us improve!
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.