Best Colleges in DC 2024
Here are the best colleges and universities in DC. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.
Best Colleges in DC
- Georgetown University
- George Washington University
- Howard University
- American University
- The Catholic University of America
- Gallaudet University
- University of the District of Columbia
- Trinity Washington University
- Georgetown University
- George Washington University
- Howard University
- American University
- The Catholic University of America
- Gallaudet University
- University of the District of Columbia
- Trinity Washington University
- Trinity Washington University 97%
- The Catholic University of America 86%
- Gallaudet University 59%
- Howard University 53%
- George Washington University 49%
- American University 41%
- Georgetown University 12%
- Howard University 14 to 1
- George Washington University 12 to 1
- Trinity Washington University 12 to 1
- Georgetown University 11 to 1
- American University 11 to 1
- The Catholic University of America 11 to 1
- Gallaudet University 6 to 1
- University of the District of Columbia 6 to 1
- George Washington University $62,200
- Georgetown University $62,052
- The Catholic University of America $54,186
- American University $53,889
- Howard University $31,050
- Trinity Washington University $25,610
- Gallaudet University $17,712
- University of the District of Columbia $5,292
- Georgetown University $56,592
- The Catholic University of America $52,190
- American University $38,139
- Howard University $35,556
- George Washington University $33,930
- Gallaudet University $18,180
- Trinity Washington University $15,120
- University of the District of Columbia $9,234
- Trinity Washington University
- University of the District of Columbia
- Gallaudet University
- The Catholic University of America
- American University
- Howard University
- George Washington University
- Georgetown University
- Trinity Washington University
- University of the District of Columbia
- Gallaudet University
- The Catholic University of America
- American University
- Howard University
- George Washington University
- Georgetown University
- Georgetown University 12%
- American University 41%
- George Washington University 49%
- Howard University 53%
- Gallaudet University 59%
- The Catholic University of America 86%
- Trinity Washington University 97%
- Gallaudet University 6 to 1
- University of the District of Columbia 6 to 1
- Georgetown University 11 to 1
- American University 11 to 1
- The Catholic University of America 11 to 1
- George Washington University 12 to 1
- Trinity Washington University 12 to 1
- Howard University 14 to 1
- University of the District of Columbia $5,292
- Gallaudet University $17,712
- Trinity Washington University $25,610
- Howard University $31,050
- American University $53,889
- The Catholic University of America $54,186
- Georgetown University $62,052
- George Washington University $62,200
- University of the District of Columbia $9,234
- Trinity Washington University $15,120
- Gallaudet University $18,180
- George Washington University $33,930
- Howard University $35,556
- American University $38,139
- The Catholic University of America $52,190
- Georgetown University $56,592
Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges
We’ve identified 8 colleges and universities in DC that meet our criteria. This list of the top colleges in DC below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in DC.
Best Colleges in DC 2023
- #2 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #11 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #12 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #16 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024
Other Rankings
- #21 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #1 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in DC 2024
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
- #1 Best Grad Schools in DC 2024
- #7 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #10 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
- #21 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in DC 2024
- #1 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
- #13 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
- #13 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #23 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
12%
Graduation
96%
Student body
24K
Median SAT/ACT
1485/33
Career Outlook for degree at Georgetown University
Cost of Degree: $62,051Expenses: $22,644Starting Salary: $125,200Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryRooted in Jesuit values, Georgetown University encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and exploration that allows students to pursue diverse academic interests. You’ll take on complex real- world challenges through innovative research and coursework with the help of a faculty comprised of renowned scholars, practitioners, and leaders in various fields.
What we love about Georgetown University:
With a strong emphasis on international affairs, the university offers numerous study abroad programs, partnerships with prestigious institutions worldwide, and a diverse student body representing over 130 countries.
Georgetown University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for a variety of residence amenities and co-living facilities.
Georgetown University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not as interested in activism, public service, and community engagement.
- #2 Best Research Universities in DC 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in DC 2024
Other Rankings
- #6 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
- #16 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #21 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in DC
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in DC 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #3 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
- #5 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
- #6 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
- #6 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #7 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
- #10 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #7 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
85%
Student body
30K
Median SAT/ACT
1410/32
Career Outlook for degree at George Washington University
Cost of Degree: $60,946Expenses: $18,745Starting Salary: $82,400Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryGeorge Washington University provides a dynamic environment where students can thrive academically and personally through the university’s strong degree programs, diverse student body, and numerous research opportunities. The university offers extensive resources for career development, including academic counseling, networking events, and over 11,000 internship programs in D.C. and beyond.
What we love about George Washington University:
The school fosters a vibrant campus life where students can grow and build relationships by joining different student organizations, cultural and athletic events, and community service initiatives.
George Washington University is ideal for students who:
Would like to engage in cutting-edge research alongside renowned faculty members in modern laboratories.
George Washington University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not passionate about diversity and inclusivity.
- #1 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in DC 2024 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
53%
Graduation
70%
Student body
13K
Median SAT/ACT
1170/23
Career Outlook for degree at Howard University
Cost of Degree: $31,050Expenses: $20,400Starting Salary: $54,500Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryAs a historically Black university, Howard University boasts a legacy of academic excellence and social activism. With a diverse student body and faculty, the school instills a sense of social responsibility in its students and encourages them to make a positive impact in their communities.
What we love about Howard University:
Graduates will benefit from the university’s strong alumni network, allowing them to connect with various companies for employment and join clubs for events and networking opportunities.
Howard University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for a diverse set of degree programs and areas of study to choose from.
Howard University might not be the best fit for students who:
Have a limited budget for boarding since on-campus housing costs tend to run high.
- #7 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in DC 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
- #3 Best Grad Schools in DC 2024
- #9 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #24 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #2 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in DC 2024
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in DC
- #7 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
- #12 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #15 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
- #4 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
41%
Graduation
79%
Student body
17K
Median SAT/ACT
1360/30
Career Outlook for degree at American University
Cost of Degree: $53,889Expenses: $17,814Starting Salary: $67,700Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith numerous international partnerships and exchange programs, American University offers a diverse campus community that is focused on global education and cross-cultural understanding. The university also emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, research projects, and community engagement initiatives.
What we love about American University:
The school takes inclusivity up a notch through initiatives like inclusive teaching seminars, which empower faculty to create more welcoming classrooms, and the Diversity Supplier Program, which partners with minority-owned businesses.
American University is ideal for students who:
Prefer a vibrant campus arts scene that includes performing arts programs, galleries, and cultural events.
American University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not interested in learning about sustainability practices like food composting, use of reusable water bottles, and upcycling old clothing.
- #12 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #13 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Research Universities in DC 2024
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #5 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
- #5 Best Grad Schools in DC 2024
- #23 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in DC 2024
- #5 Best Online Master's Programs in DC 2024
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
76%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at The Catholic University of America
Cost of Degree: $54,186Expenses: $20,820Starting Salary: $60,500Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe Catholic University of America maintains a strong religious identity by integrating faith into its academic and extracurricular activities such as retreats and mission trips. The school’s campus features historic architecture and a picturesque backdrop for students to enjoy and explore.
What we love about The Catholic University of America:
The campus community is known for student participation and diverse cultural exchange, featuring organizations such as the Black Student Alliance, the Chinese Club, and the Filipino Organization of Catholic University Students.
The Catholic University of America is ideal for students who:
Are looking for a private university that offers low tuition rates.
The Catholic University of America might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer an institution that is not affiliated with any particular religious denomination.
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in DC 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in DC 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
Tuition + fees
$18K
Acceptance
59%
Graduation
44%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
920/17
Career Outlook for degree at Gallaudet University
Cost of Degree: $17,712Expenses: $22,000Starting Salary: $34,300Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryGallaudet University’s unique bilingual approach, incorporating American Sign Language (ASL) and English, fosters a dynamic learning environment where students enhance their communication skills and cultural understanding. The school drives innovation and knowledge advancement through its research centers, focusing on deaf and linguistics studies.
What we love about Gallaudet University:
The school is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in deaf education, offering a diverse range of programs and educational centers for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.
Gallaudet University is ideal for students who:
Have diverse needs since the university’s Student Accessibility Services ensures that they will be given equal access to academic and extracurricular activities.
Gallaudet University might not be the best fit for students who:
Lack enthusiasm for learning American Sign Language (ASL).
- #23 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in DC 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in DC 2024
Tuition + fees
$6K
Graduation
35%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at University of the District of Columbia
Cost of Degree: $6,152Starting Salary: $39,400The University of the District of Columbia is known for offering quality Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs, preparing students for the workforce through state-of-the-art laboratories and research opportunities. By partnering with community colleges, the school paves the way for its students to pursue higher education and workforce programs.
What we love about the University of the District of Columbia:
Through the Center for Urban Agriculture and Gardening Education (CUAGE), the university collaborates with local organizations to address community needs and organizes initiatives that promote food security and agricultural practices.
The University of the District of Columbia is ideal for students who:
Are enthusiastic about sustainability practices, renewable energy projects, and carbon footprint reduction efforts.
University of the District of Columbia might not be the best fit for students who:
Seek a more personalized learning experience with smaller class sizes.
- #4 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #7 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024 #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$26K
Acceptance
97%
Graduation
38%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Trinity Washington University
Cost of Degree: $25,610Expenses: $15,080Starting Salary: $43,100Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryAside from offering career-focused programs, Trinity Washington University’s academic approach is centered on experiential learning through internships in notable organizations like the United States Capitol and the White House. With a commitment to social justice, the school’s programs include discussing issues about poverty, discrimination, and inequality.
What we love about Trinity Washington University:
The university’s Women’s Leadership Program empowers students to take on leadership roles, both on campus and in their communities, through workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking events.
Trinity Washington University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for a supportive learning environment where faculty members provide personalized attention and guidance.
Trinity Washington University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer not to attend campus activities and cultural events.
DC’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest
2021 Ranking Archieve
Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.
Student Submitted Questions on the Best Colleges in Washington DC
Grace asks, “How do DC colleges integrate their proximity to Capitol Hill into courses related to public policy, political science, or journalism?”
Dr. James Barham’s answer: Many schools try to provide students with access to political institutions, media, and think tanks so that they can gain real world experience in the political sphere. While the specifics differ based on the school, many schools feature internship connections with political groups or organizations, policy innovation labs, investigative reporting workshops, site visits and hearings, and more.
Brad asks, “What student organizations and affinity groups are popular across multiple DC campuses?”
Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: Colleges and universities in Washington DC tend to be known for their cultural and ethnic organizations such as Black Student Alliance, Latino Student Association, South Asian Student Association, etc. There are also many LGBTQ+, religious, and political groups available for students. The exact nature and type of groups available will depend on the particular college a student goes to, but you should be able to see which groups are featured on the school’s website.