Best Grad Schools in DC 2024
Graduate school may be a critical step in your higher education, whether you are interested in expanding your knowledge, learning a specialization, or earning advanced credentials required by your profession. The best graduate schools in DC offer advanced degrees, such as master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.
Best Grad Schools in DC
- Georgetown University
- George Washington University
- American University
- Howard University
- The Catholic University of America
- Gallaudet University
- University of the District of Columbia
- Georgetown University
- George Washington University
- Howard University
- American University
- The Catholic University of America
- Gallaudet University
- University of the District of Columbia
- The Catholic University of America 86%
- American University 64%
- Gallaudet University 62%
- George Washington University 50%
- Howard University 35%
- Georgetown University 12%
- George Washington University 13 to 1
- Howard University 12 to 1
- Georgetown University 11 to 1
- American University 11 to 1
- The Catholic University of America 11 to 1
- University of the District of Columbia 8 to 1
- Gallaudet University 6 to 1
- Georgetown University $59,957
- George Washington University $59,870
- American University $53,334
- The Catholic University of America $52,156
- Howard University $28,916
- Gallaudet University $17,712
- University of the District of Columbia $5,292
- Georgetown University $54,672
- The Catholic University of America $50,670
- American University $37,447
- Howard University $33,860
- George Washington University $32,850
- Gallaudet University $18,180
- University of the District of Columbia $9,234
- University of the District of Columbia
- Gallaudet University
- The Catholic University of America
- Howard University
- American University
- George Washington University
- Georgetown 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%
- Howard University 35%
- George Washington University 50%
- Gallaudet University 62%
- American University 64%
- The Catholic University of America 86%
- Gallaudet University 6 to 1
- University of the District of Columbia 8 to 1
- Georgetown University 11 to 1
- American University 11 to 1
- The Catholic University of America 11 to 1
- Howard University 12 to 1
- George Washington University 13 to 1
- University of the District of Columbia $5,292
- Gallaudet University $17,712
- Howard University $28,916
- The Catholic University of America $52,156
- American University $53,334
- George Washington University $59,870
- Georgetown University $59,957
- University of the District of Columbia $9,234
- Gallaudet University $18,180
- George Washington University $32,850
- Howard University $33,860
- American University $37,447
- The Catholic University of America $50,670
- Georgetown University $54,672
Key Takeaways
- The best grad schools in DC are known for their rigorous academic standards that emphasize outstanding research, contemporary curriculum, and student engagement. Graduate students must meet these academic standards through intensive study of their chosen fields.
- Graduate schools in Washington DC are in the best position to provide abundant opportunities for students interested in a wide array of disciplines. Students choose from graduate programs in business administration, computer science, engineering, and the performing arts.
- Being in the nation’s capital also means easy access to a wide range of networking and employment opportunities! Washington DC, after all, is filled with the world’s largest corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
What are DC’s Colleges & Universities?
- 6 Research Universities
- 6 Graduate Schools
- 7 Private Colleges & Universities
- 4 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 4 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 2 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
DC’s Best Overall
Washington DC’s Pride: Top-Rated Grad Schools
Did you know that Washington DC is home to one of the most educated populations in the United States? Nearly 50% of its residents have at least a bachelor’s degree—and it’s among the reasons for its popularity in academia!
The best grad schools in DC provide in-state, out-of-state, and international students with excellent graduate education in diverse disciplines.
These graduate schools are also vital in the District’s culture, society, and economy, as well as in its politics including its influence on public policy. Indeed, graduate students are considered potential movers-and-shakers of the country due to their intensive graduate school education!
Major Universities with Graduate Schools in Washington DC
The Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area represents 17 colleges and universities based in the Washington DC metropolitan area. The Smithsonian Institutions are also consortium members.
As a nonprofit educational association, the consortium promotes the common mission of its member universities, namely, the advancement of student knowledge, skills, and experiences. The emphasis is on education, culture and society, and science and technology, which Washington DC graduate schools are known for.
The consortium engages in cross-campus partnerships that promote convenient course cross-registration and library access, among other services, for students. The member-universities also engage in joint programs in education, procurement, and public safety training, to name a few initiatives.
The 17 member universities of the consortium are:
- American University
- The Catholic University of America
- Gallaudet University
- George Mason University
- The George Washington University
- Georgetown University
- Howard University
- Marymount University
- National Defense University
- National Intelligence University
- Northern Virginia Community College
- Prince George’s Community College
- Trinity Washington University
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
- University of the District of Columbia
- University of Maryland, College Park
- Johns Hopkins University
These colleges and universities are major innovation centers and employers with more than 30,000 jobs—and growing. In terms of enrollment, more than 80,000 students are enrolled in a Washington DC Consortium university—or one in six residents!
These colleges and universities also make a significant impact on the economy—close to $2 billion per year. Indeed, students in graduate schools will find that their colleges and universities are among the best places to work, too.
Reasons to Be in Washington DC for Your Graduate Studies
Aside from being home to the best graduate schools in the nation, if not the world, Washington DC is a consistent top-ranking presence in reputation surveys for the best college towns. Graduate students can look forward to these benefits in pursuing their graduate studies here:
- Rich opportunities for practical experiences. Internships and apprenticeships, research opportunities, and jobs are aplenty.
- Networking opportunities like you’ve never had before. Washington DC is a busy city filled with professionals in a wide array of disciplines so you will never run out of people to learn from.
- History is unfolding right before your eyes. Many of the world’s most influential organizations, from the US federal government to the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, have their headquarters here.
- Amazing architecture in every corner. The White House, The Capitol, and the Supreme Court are just a few of the awe-inspiring buildings in Washington DC—there are plenty of museums, theaters, and memorials to see. Plus, the shopping and entertainment options are the best.
What are you waiting for? Come to Washington DC and check out its graduate schools now!
There are 7 doctorate-granting graduate schools in DC. Our ranking of the best graduate schools in the DC is composed of both private and public schools. To be included, schools must be fully accredited non-profit institutions, and must offer doctoral degrees and a broad array of graduate degrees.
Best Grad Schools 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 #12 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
Other Rankings
- #16 50 Best Private Grad Schools 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 Christian Colleges in DC 2024
- #1 Best Colleges 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
$60K
Acceptance
12%
Graduation
95%
Student body
23K
Median SAT/ACT
1465/33
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 salaryWhat is Georgetown University known for?
Georgetown University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Law
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Religious Studies
- Nursing
- Education
- Business
- Communications
- Economics
- History
Most Influential Alumni
- #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 Colleges 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)
Tuition + fees
$60K
Acceptance
50%
Graduation
84%
Student body
30K
Median SAT/ACT
1360/31
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 salaryWhat is George Washington University known for?
George Washington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Law
- Communications
- Business
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Medical
- Education
- Earth Sciences
Most Influential Alumni
- #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 Colleges 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
- #13 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
$53K
Acceptance
64%
Graduation
79%
Student body
16K
Median SAT/ACT
1305/29
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 salaryWhat is American University known for?
American University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Law
- Economics
- Education
- Business
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Communications
- History
Most Influential Alumni
- #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
$29K
Acceptance
35%
Graduation
64%
Student body
12K
Median SAT/ACT
1195/24
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 salaryWhat is Howard University known for?
Howard University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Education
- Political Science
- Law
- History
- Literature
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #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 Colleges 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
$52K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
74%
Student body
6K
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 salaryWhat is The Catholic University of America known for?
The Catholic University of America’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Nursing
- Law
- Philosophy
- Communications
- Physics
- Social Work
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Anthropology
Most Influential Alumni
- #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
62%
Graduation
58%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
915/16
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 salaryWhat is Gallaudet University known for?
Gallaudet University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Communications
- Education
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Computer Science
- History
- Political Science
- Medical
- Literature
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
- #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 Colleges in DC 2024
Tuition + fees
$6K
Graduation
25%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at University of the District of Columbia
Cost of Degree: $6,152Starting Salary: $39,400What is University of the District of Columbia known for?
University of the District of Columbia’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
DC’s Best Grad School for Your Area of Interest
Resources for Prospective Grad Students
Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.
2021 Ranking Archieve
Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 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.