JWU

Student Life at JWU

Being a Wildcat is special. You have the support of a diverse, welcoming community and have access to unique internship and classroom project opportunities. You feel safe on campus and make new friends by getting involved in clubs, sports and campus events. Most importantly, you discover what drives you and leave here prepared to succeed at it. 

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Two people cheer and hold signs in front of a large Welcome Wildcats banner.

Two Campuses, One JWU

You have two JWU campuses to choose from. Both put you in the middle of energetic cities that offer incredible food, music and entertainment venues, parks and cultural events just steps from campus.

Students walk through a sunny city park with the Providence skyline in the background.

Explore Providence, R.I.

Modern city walkway with white columns, benches and people passing through.

Explore Charlotte, N.C.

Life on Campus

Three students sitting and talking on the grass in a shaded campus area.
New students were welcomed to Johnson & Wales University’s Downcity campus on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025, during the annual Ignite the Night celebration at Gaebe Commons. Returning students, alumni and staff gathered to celebrate the start of the academic year.

(Christopher Massa/Johnson & Wales University)
Four individuals walk across a street under a bright blue sky, passing a large colorful mural on a brick building.
Four students walking on the street in front of a brick building with a painted mural.
Two people covered in colorful powder smile during an outdoor campus event.
The 9th annual Holi festival organized by the JWU Indian Students Association and Namaste Nepal was held on the Harborside Campus Friday. The festival signifies the victory of good over evil, the arrival of spring, end of winter, and for many a festive day to meet others, play and laugh, forget and forgive. Photos: Mike Cohea 2019
A group of students at a pep rally, clapping and smiling.
Pep Rally held at the Wildcat Center for the wrestling team, who are sending 7 wrestlers to the NCAA DIII championships – to be held at the AMP arena in downtown Providence. Photos: Scott Bowers 2025.
Two individuals in matching hoodies make a heart shape with their hands while smiling outdoors on a sunny day.
The Student Involvement Fest was held on Gaebe Commons. Photos Mike Cohea 2023
Two individuals pose with a yellow mascot in a brightly lit indoor space, while another person captures the moment on a smartphone.
Two campus safety officers stand at an outdoor event while one points across the crowd.

How does JWU keep students safe?

Keeping our students safe is a top priority — both JWU campuses have dedicated Campus Safety & Security teams who are on duty 24/7, patrolling campus and monitoring our security systems. We also use an integrated access control system of ID card readers to enter buildings, surveillance cameras and emergency blue light phones for enhanced security.

Learn more about JWU’s Campus Safety & Security
A person smiles while holding a black and gray dog outdoors on a sunny day.

Can you bring a pet with you to JWU?

Yes! Both JWU campuses offer pet and animal-friendly housing options for approved pets and service animals. Students have shared that bringing their furry companions on their college journey enhanced their experience and benefitted their mental health.

Learn more about JWU’s Pet-Friendly Communities
A student standing next to a railing with a suit on.

What student employment opportunities are available at JWU?

Our Student Employment office provides more than 1,200 on-campus job opportunities through Federal Work Study (need-based positions that are offered through your financial aid package) and our Student Assistant Employment Program (positions you must apply for).

Learn more about Student Employment at JWU
A person leaps to spike a volleyball over the net during an outdoor game, with teammates and a large statue in the background.

How can students get involved at JWU?

JWU offers 100+ student-led clubs and organizations. Both campuses host a Student Involvement Festival, where you can meet members from various clubs and organizations and ask questions. Campus events like this are an integral part of our traditions, allowing students to come together and make new friends. Additionally, both campuses offer fraternities and sororities that provide opportunities to build lifelong friendships, give back to the community, and develop leadership skills.

Explore Student Activities at JWU Providence
Explore Student Activities at JWU Charlotte

Ready to Become a Wildcat?

Take the first step and plan your visit to campus. It’s the best way to see what our community is like and to start picturing yourself living and learning in the heart of the city.

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