Best
Private Colleges in District of Columbia in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in the District of Columbia offers access to government agencies, nonprofits, and companies. Programs typically cover accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and entrepreneurship, often combining classroom learning with internships. Popular local choices include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, and the Catholic University of America. Graduates commonly pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, financial analysts, project managers, or operations supervisors across diverse industries.

Psychology

Psychology programs in the District of Columbia combine the study of behavior with practical applications. Students take courses in research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, cognition, and social psychology. Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, Catholic University of America, and the University of the District of Columbia offer psychology study. Graduates pursue roles in human resources, social services, market research, behavioral support, or case management; clinical practice requires graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in the District of Columbia offers access to technology employers and government agencies. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students may study software engineering and networks. Popular colleges include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, Catholic University of America, and the University of the District of Columbia. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, or cybersecurity specialists.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in the District of Columbia combines coursework with supervised practice. Students typically study counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and crisis intervention, followed by a practicum or internship. Popular options include George Washington University, Howard University, and The Catholic University of America. Graduates may pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or community agency counselors, depending on degree level and licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in the District of Columbia includes courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and clinical practice. Popular colleges offering nursing programs include Georgetown University, Howard University, Catholic University of America, Trinity Washington University, and the University of the District of Columbia. Graduates may become registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, community health centers, long-term care facilities, or schools, providing patient education, emergency care, maternal health services, and care coordination across diverse care settings.

Best Colleges in District of Columbia Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $26,360, compared with $67,420 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of $41,060.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid, compared with 57.71% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 57.71%. Schools receive an average of 16,126.86 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 29,894. The median number of applicants is 6,004 men and 11,162 women.
• Average test scores are 1,277.4 on the SAT and 27.6 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 8,086.7; averages by gender are 467 men and 894 women.
• The average graduation rate is 59.11%, compared with 86.2% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 66% for men and 75.5% for women.
• Six institutions offer associate's degrees, 11 offer bachelor's degrees, 15 offer master's degrees, and 10 offer doctor's degrees.
• Nine schools are coeducational; there are zero schools for men and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, graduation outcomes, and the degree options available. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and graduation rates, while the average financial-aid figure is higher overall than at those schools, so consider how these factors align with your academic goals and budget.

How much does studying at a college in District of Columbia cost?

For a student in the District of Columbia, the reported average total cost of studying is $32,243.27. This is a useful planning benchmark, but it should not be mistaken for the full price of a degree: the data do not specify a program's length or whether this total covers every year.

• Average tuition and fees: $35,190.18
• Average room and board: $17,932.67
• Average books and supplies: $1,142.88

Your budget may differ with housing, meals, books, and school choice. Georgetown, George Washington, Howard, and American University are DC options, but each sets its own charges. Compare current cost estimates and financial-aid offers; grants, scholarships, or work-study may lower your out-of-pocket cost. An estimate can help you compare campus living with commuting from home and plan. Treat $32,243.27 as a broad studying-cost benchmark, not a guaranteed four-year bill. Confirm the period it covers and how costs may change before multiplying it across your degree.

How long does it take to finish college in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, a full-time bachelor's degree typically takes four years; an associate degree usually takes two. Clinical or sequential programs may take longer. At Georgetown, Howard, George Washington University, American University, or the University of the District of Columbia, your timeline depends on course loads, prerequisites, and year-round study. The reported average graduation rate is 59.11%, rising to 86.2% among the top 10% of schools. Rates are 55.62% for men and 72.25% for women. These outcomes show many students graduate, while planning and campus support can help you stay on track.

Options that may help you finish sooner:

• Use accepted AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits to meet requirements.
• Transfer approved credits, checking their fit with your major first.
• Take summer classes or a heavier load to earn credits faster.
• Ask about accelerated or combined-degree options at DC colleges.
• Meet an adviser to prevent prerequisite delays and maintain momentum.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in the District of Columbia have a median alumni salary of about $56,842. For graduates of schools ranked among the top 10%, the median is about $65,876 - a promising benchmark as you plan your career after college.

Popular options in D.C. include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, and the University of the District of Columbia. Your earnings can vary depending on your field, experience, and employer, so these figures are useful guideposts rather than a guarantee of what you personally will earn.

• Median alumni salary: about $56,842
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: about $65,876

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in District of Columbia?

Beauty is subjective, but Georgetown University is a strong choice for a particularly picturesque campus. Its historic buildings, tree-lined walkways, and location above the Potomac River create a distinctive setting in the city. If you enjoy classic architecture and lively student neighborhoods, a campus visit may make Georgetown feel especially memorable.

What is the most selective college in District of Columbia?

Georgetown University is generally considered the District's most selective college, based on its low admission rate compared with other local universities. Admissions figures vary by year, and selectivity is only one measure of fit. For applicants, strong grades, thoughtful essays, and a clear sense of how they would contribute can all matter.

What is the richest university in District of Columbia?

If "richest" means the size of its endowment, Georgetown University is generally the leading university based in the District. Endowment totals change over time, and the money is invested to support the university's long-term work rather than simply spent on current students. A large endowment can help fund research, financial aid, and campus programs.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in District of Columbia Ranking in 2026-2027

Georgetown University, a private Jesuit research university in the nation's capital, enrolls 19,905 students. Its 95% graduation rate and 13% acceptance rate reflect strong outcomes and selective admission. The listed total study cost is $67,896, while median alumni salary is $64,718. For a District of Columbia student, studying here means access to campus life in Georgetown and nearby internships, public-service organizations, hospitals, and international institutions. The university is known for programs in law, diplomacy, business, health, and global affairs.

George Washington University is a private research university based in Foggy Bottom, placing students near the White House, federal agencies, and DC. It enrolls 24,500 students, with an 84% graduation rate and 47% acceptance rate. The total cost is $67,420, and median alumni salary is $63,315. For a local student, its central District of Columbia setting can make internships and civic engagement accessible. GW is recognized for international affairs, policy, and professional study, with campus life woven into the capital.

Howard University, a historically Black university in Washington, DC, enrolls 14,890 students and has a 70% graduation rate. Its 41% acceptance rate indicates moderately selective admission. The listed total cost of study is $35,344, and median alumni salary is $53,193. District of Columbia students can pursue campus-based learning while connecting with the city's cultural institutions, nonprofits, government, and health organizations. Howard is known for its legacy in educating Black leaders and for strengths across medicine, law, business, and the arts.

American University is a private university in northwest Washington, DC, with 11,299 enrolled students. Its graduation rate is 75%, and its 62% acceptance rate offers a less selective admissions profile than some local peers. The listed total cost is $57,952; median alumni salary is $52,809. For students already in the District of Columbia, AU combines campus life with access to policy work, internships, and activities across the city. The university is known for international relations, public affairs, communications, and sustainability.

Trinity Washington University is a private university in northeast Washington, DC, enrolling 1,948 students. Its 49% graduation rate contrasts with its 100% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $26,360, and median alumni salary is $52,100. For District of Columbia residents, Trinity offers a close-knit campus setting within the city, with access to community organizations and public transportation. The university is known for its commitment to women's education and programs in liberal arts, education, professional fields, and community-focused academic opportunities.