We are poised to make RWU an even more distinctive, resilient and enduring institution. Our core values, originally established during the Vision Project in 2014, were reaffirmed in 2019 through Vision Working Groups, the creation of our first Equity Action Plan and the ongoing academic master planning underway now.

RWU is dedicated to engaged, hands-on learning and teaching that helps strengthen society. Every student is provided the opportunity to participate in a real-world learning experience that helps a community partner locally or globally.

Roger Williams University (RWU) is a private university in Bristol, Rhode Island, United States. Founded in 1956, it was named for theologian and Rhode Island cofounder Roger Williams.

We are a private university with a public purpose, devoted to strengthening society through engaged teaching and learning. We are committed to making a great education accessible by investing in people and resources while holding the line on cost. Here are some fast facts about where we came from:

Roger Williams University's motto, "In Deo Speramus" means "In God we hope." This motto reflects the university's unwavering belief in the power of knowledge, understanding, and a strong foundation to create a better world.

Apr 12, 2025 · Under the auspices of the philanthropy of Alan Shawn Feinstein, Roger Williams University in 1998 created a campus program, now known as the Feinstein Center, to support faculty and students as they engage in curricular and co-curricular community based learning.

With 50 majors and over 70 minors you can mix and match from a wide variety of programs to create your own powerful combination. Over a dozen master’s degrees and a range of professional certificate programs that offer a deeply enriching education and valuable career opportunities after graduation.

5 days ago · Roger Williams University is a top-ranked university in Rhode Island, offering juris doctorate, graduate, and undergraduate degrees. Located in a safe, coastal environment, RWU provides a dynamic educational experience by creating powerful combinations of academic excellence with real-world opportunities.

Oct 8, 2017 · One of four freedmen’s colleges in Nashville, Roger Williams University began as elementary classes for African American Baptist preachers in 1864. Classes were held in the home of Daniel W. Phillips, a white minister and freedmen’s missionary from Massachusetts.

5 days ago · With 50 majors and over 70 minors you can mix and match from a wide variety of programs to create your own powerful combination. Over a dozen master’s degrees and a range of professional certificate programs that offer a deeply enriching education and valuable career opportunities after graduation.