The University of Rhode Island is a diverse and dynamic community whose members are connected by a common quest for knowledge. As a major research university defined by innovation and big thinking, URI offers its undergraduate, graduate, and professional students distinctive educational opportunities designed to meet the global challenges of today’s world and the rapidly evolving needs of tomorrow. Founded in 1892, and enrolling more than 17,000 students, URI is Rhode Island's flagship public research institution and a major economic and innovation driver for the state. The University offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in more than 100 undergraduate and 75 graduate areas of study. True to its land- and sea-grant mission, and through increasing investments in institutional financial aid, the University remains one of the most affordable public research institutions in New England. With an increasingly diverse community of students, scholars, and researchers, URI’s global reach and influence is expanding. The University has significantly grown its international partnerships and industry relationships over the past decade in ways that enhance innovation and contribute to broad economic development for the state and region. The University's research and work in climate and ocean science is globally known and URI is a recognized leader in defining a new Blue Economy. Located in close proximity to major U.S. economic and government hubs, including New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C, the University is uniquely positioned, both geographically and strategically, to contribute to globally impactful innovation and discovery.