About Johnson & Wales

Closeup of the Wildcat sculpture.

Founded in 1914, Johnson & Wales University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 8,000 graduate, undergraduate and online students at its campuses in Providence, Rhode Island, and Charlotte, North Carolina.

An innovative educational leader, the university offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in arts and sciences, business, engineering, food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, health and wellness. It also offers undergraduate programs in culinary arts, dietetics and design. JWU’s unique model provides students with the personalized attention, academic expertise and industry connections that inspire professional success and personal growth. The time students spend at JWU is nothing short of transformative, as demonstrated by career outcomes, expected earnings and economic mobility rankings.

The university’s impact is global, with alumni in 128 countries pursuing careers worldwide.

Unique Educational Model

Just about every college is talking about experiential education. That’s because it works. At Johnson & Wales, we’ve been perfecting this approach for more than 100 years.

We offer an optimal blend of intellectual development, industry-focused education, résumé-building work experiences, community and leadership opportunities, and an uncommon depth of career services.

At Johnson & Wales, experience is the difference. This means that experiential learning is much more than an internship tacked onto a major. It’s woven into all aspects of our education, in and out of the classroom. You won’t just learn theory. You’ll turn it into real world practice. You’ll work on real world projects in class, in our industry specific learning labs, and sometimes with real companies.

This approach is a more effective way to learn. Through these experiences, you’ll be uniquely prepared for shifting industries and have the flexibility to pursue other career paths and entrepreneurial ventures.

JWU Recognized for Innovation, Value and Outcomes

Johnson & Wales University is proud to be recognized among the best in higher education, receiving several accolades that underscore our dedication to academic excellence and innovation. These rankings highlight JWU’s unwavering commitment to delivering industry-responsive education, fostering a dynamic and supportive community and providing an exceptional student experience.

JWU’s success is not just about numbers — it’s about impact. These accolades affirm the strength of the university’s academic offerings and its role in preparing graduates for meaningful careers. With its innovative spirit and focus on real-world learning, JWU remains a top choice for students seeking a transformative education.

JWU’s Providence Campus has been ranked #16 among the Most Innovative Schools in the Regional Universities North category by U.S. News & World Report. This recognition underscores the university’s industry-responsive approach and its ongoing efforts to enhance curriculum, faculty development, campus life, technology and facilities.

JWU’s Charlotte Campus also received high marks, ranking in the top 30 for Best Regional Colleges South and earning a badge for Best Value in the same category.

JWU’s College of Professional Studies announced it was named one of the 2024 Best Colleges for Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs by Money.com. The ranking considers factors such as affordability, graduation rates and employment outcomes, with JWU receiving a 4-star rating.

JWU’s renowned culinary programs continue to shine. The Providence Campus tied for the #2 spot and the Charlotte Campus ranked #4 on College Factual’s list of Best Culinary Arts Schools.

Both JWU campuses have earned top spots in NICHE’s 2025 Best Colleges for Culinary Arts in America, with the Charlotte Campus ranked #5 and the Providence Campus ranked #7

Accreditation

JWU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), through its Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (CIHE). The nation’s oldest regional accrediting association, NECHE accredits educational institutions internationally. This accreditation encompasses the university’s two campuses.

Fact Sheets

These university and campus fact sheets provide a quick summary of Johnson & Wales University’s mission, strategic plan and key facts and numbers relevant to the entire JWU community. 

Explore JWU Fact Sheets

 

JWU Badges of Best Colleges vertical 2024-25