Civil Engineering at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University's civil engineering program sits at an accessible entry point—with an 88% admission rate and moderate SAT requirements—that appears to deliver outcomes comparable to national norms. Based on peer civil engineering programs across the country, graduates typically earn around $70,000 in their first year, which aligns closely with what URI reports for Rhode Island's only other civil engineering program. The estimated $27,000 in debt produces a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39, meaning students would owe roughly five months of their first-year salary.

The challenge here is that we're working entirely from estimates since Roger Williams hasn't reported actual outcomes. Civil engineering programs nationwide show relatively consistent results—the gap between median and 75th percentile earnings is only about $3,000—which suggests the field offers stable career prospects regardless of where you study. But without knowing this specific program's placement rate, employer connections, or actual graduate outcomes, you're betting on Roger Williams matching what similar schools achieve.

For families considering this program, the estimated numbers suggest solid value if they hold true. Civil engineering credentials translate reliably to employment, and starting near $70,000 with manageable debt would represent a reasonable return. However, the lack of reported data means you should dig deeper: talk to recent alumni, ask the career services office for placement statistics, and compare internship opportunities with URI's more established program before committing to Roger Williams's higher private school price tag.