Best
Value Colleges in District of Columbia in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in the District of Columbia combines management theory with skills for organizations in government, nonprofit, and private sectors. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, business law, human resources, operations, and strategic management. Graduates pursue roles as management analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, financial analysts, or operations managers. Popular options include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, and the University of the District of Columbia, which offer relevant business programs.

Psychology

Studying psychology in the District of Columbia offers classroom learning and access to diverse communities. Typical courses include introductory psychology, statistics, research methods, developmental and social psychology, cognition, and abnormal psychology. 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 often become research assistants, human resources specialists, case managers, or behavioral technicians; licensed psychologist positions typically require advanced degrees.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in the District of Columbia combines programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students often build skills through projects, internships, and research. Popular options include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, and the University of the District of Columbia. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, web developers, or IT consultants, working across government, technology, finance, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in the District of Columbia combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, psychopathology, and multicultural practice, along with supervised fieldwork. Popular local options include George Washington University, Howard University, The Catholic University of America, and Trinity Washington University. Graduates may pursue work as licensed mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or college advising professionals, depending on degree level, state licensure requirements, and experience.

Nursing

Studying nursing in the District of Columbia combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and fundamentals of nursing. Students also study ethics, mental health, maternal-child care, and public health. Graduates commonly become registered nurses, working in hospitals, clinics, schools, or public health agencies. Popular options include Georgetown University, Howard University, the Catholic University of America, and the University of the District of Columbia.

Best Colleges in District of Columbia Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 22,324.0, compared with 66,473.2 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% figure substantially higher.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid, while the average at top 10% schools is 57.71%.
• The average acceptance rate is 57.71%. Schools receive an average of 16,126.86 applicants, compared with 29,894.0 at top 10% schools. The median number of applicants is 6,004.0 for men and 11,162.0 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,277.4 on the SAT and 27.6 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 7,733.55; the average number of enrolled men is 467.0 and enrolled women is 894.0.
• The average graduation rate is 56.5%, compared with 85.1% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 59.0% for men and 74.0% for women.
• Seven institutions offer associate's degrees, 12 offer bachelor's degrees, 16 offer master's degrees, and 11 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 10 coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid, and consider how acceptance rates, applicant numbers, test scores, enrollment, graduation rates, degree offerings, and school type align with your needs. The higher costs and graduation rates reported for top 10% schools may be worth weighing against their lower average financial-aid coverage.

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

For a student in DC, the reported average total cost of studying is $30,568.33. It is a useful budgeting benchmark, but should not be assumed to cover every year of an entire degree, since program length and college charges vary.

The separately reported averages are $32,977.33 for tuition and fees, $17,861.80 for room and board, and $1,143.56 for books and supplies. These component figures do not add up to the reported total, so treat them as separate planning indicators, not one combined bill.

If you're weighing Georgetown University, Howard University, or George Washington University, compare each school's current charges and financial aid for your academic goals, lifestyle, and budget. Your out-of-pocket cost can change with housing choices, commuting, scholarships, grants, and whether you live at home. Build a personal budget that includes transportation and everyday expenses alongside tuition and books. This planning can make your DC degree feel more achievable.

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

In DC, a full-time bachelor's degree typically takes four years; an associate degree takes about two. Your timeline depends on program requirements, course availability, and part-time study. Georgetown, George Washington, Howard, and the University of the District of Columbia are familiar local options where bachelor's programs generally follow the four-year model. Some programs include clinical or internship requirements before graduation.

Graduation rates offer context: the average is 56.5%, compared with 85.1% among the top 10% of schools. Averages are 52.89% for men and 68.11% for women. Completion is achievable, and asking colleges how rates are measured and what advising is available can help you plan.

You may be able to finish faster by exploring options such as:

• Bring in AP, IB, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits after confirming they meet degree requirements.
• Take summer or winter-session courses to complete requirements year-round.
• Use accelerated or competency-based pathways where offered, and meet an adviser early to map prerequisites.

Salary

College graduates in the District of Columbia earn a median alumni salary of $56,506. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median rises to $64,718 - a difference of $8,212.

Your own earnings can vary with your field, experience, and employer. In D.C., studying at universities such as Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, or American University can put you near a wide range of employers, including government agencies, nonprofits, hospitals, and businesses.

These figures offer a useful benchmark as you compare programs and career paths: graduates at the top-school level earn more at the median, while your major and the opportunities you pursue can also shape your prospects.

People also ask

What college in District of Columbia has the lowest tuition?

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is generally the lowest-tuition option among the District's four-year colleges, especially for DC residents, who qualify for its in-district rates. Your actual cost depends on the academic year, program, and fees, so check UDC's current tuition schedule and financial-aid options before applying.

What are Tier 1 schools in District of Columbia?

"Tier 1" has no single official definition, so the answer depends on the ranking or research measure being used. Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, and American University are commonly recognized among DC's leading national universities. Compare programs, campus culture, and aid offers too - those details can matter more than a tier label.

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

Georgetown University offers a highly regarded academic experience in Washington, D.C., with proximity to federal institutions, international organizations, and the city's cultural life. Its 19,905 enrolled students make it a substantial university, while a 95% graduation rate and 13% acceptance rate indicate strong outcomes and selectivity. Total study cost is $67,896, and median alumni salary is $64,718. For a District of Columbia student, Georgetown combines local access with a demanding campus environment and opportunities to build connections locally and professionally.

George Washington University places students in the heart of Washington, D.C., offering an urban setting near government, policy, and cultural institutions. Its enrollment of 24,500 is the largest among these five schools. The university reports an 84% graduation rate, 47% acceptance rate, total study cost of $67,420, and median alumni salary of $63,315. For local students, the city itself can be an extension of campus, supporting internships, networking, and exploration alongside academic study and everyday access to the District's resources.

Howard University is a historically Black university in Washington, D.C., known for its longstanding role in educating leaders across many fields. It enrolls 14,890 students and has a 70% graduation rate and 41% acceptance rate. The listed total cost of study is $35,344, the lowest among these five institutions, while median alumni salary is $53,193. For District residents, Howard offers a significant local academic community and access to the cultural, civic, and professional opportunities of the nation's capital for study.

American University is a private university in northwest Washington, D.C., offering students a campus-based experience within reach of the capital's institutions and neighborhoods. It enrolls 11,299 students, with a 75% graduation rate and 62% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $57,952, and median alumni salary is $52,809. Students already living in the District can weigh its campus environment against the city's many academic and career resources, while considering how its cost and outcomes fit their plans and budget over time.

Trinity Washington University is a small university in Washington, D.C., offering a more intimate setting than the larger schools in this comparison. It enrolls 1,948 students and reports a 49% graduation rate and 100% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $26,360, the lowest listed, and median alumni salary is $52,100. For District residents seeking a local degree, Trinity may merit consideration for its smaller scale and comparatively lower cost, while applicants should evaluate academic offerings, support, and career goals.