Best
Value Colleges in Washington in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Washington, DC offers access to government agencies, nonprofits, and companies. Courses typically include accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business analytics, and organizational behavior. Students build leadership, communication, and strategic decision-making skills through projects and internships. Graduates commonly pursue roles as management analysts, marketing coordinators, financial analysts, human resources specialists, or operations managers. Popular DC options include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, and Catholic University of America.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Washington, DC, offers access to communities and research. Typical courses include introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, cognitive and developmental psychology, social psychology, 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 may become research assistants, case managers, behavioral technicians, human resources coordinators, or social services workers; clinical practice requires graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Washington, DC offers access to universities, government agencies, and technology employers. Typical coursework includes programming, algorithms, data structures, computer networks, cybersecurity, databases, and artificial intelligence. Students build practical skills through projects, internships, and research. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as software developer, systems analyst, data scientist, cybersecurity specialist, or IT support professional. Popular local choices include Georgetown University, George Washington University, American University, and Howard University. Programs may offer specialized concentrations.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Washington, DC combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, lifespan development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised clinical work. Local options include George Washington University, Howard University, and The Catholic University of America, which offer relevant counseling or counseling-related graduate programs. Graduates commonly pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, mental health therapists, college advisors, or substance-use counselors, working in schools, clinics, hospitals, community agencies, and private practice locally.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Washington, DC offers access to hospitals and diverse clinical settings. Programs commonly cover anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, ethics, and community health, with supervised clinical practice. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, public health agencies, or long-term care. Popular options include Georgetown University, Howard University, The Catholic University of America, and the University of the District of Columbia. Some pursue advanced practice nursing careers later.

Best Colleges in Washington, DC Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 22,324.0, compared with 66,473.2 at schools in the top 10%, indicating substantially higher costs among the top-ranked group.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, 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 schools in the top 10%. The median number of applicants is 6,004.0 men and 11,162.0 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; average enrollment is 467.0 men and 894.0 women.
• 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, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid alongside acceptance rates and the SAT and ACT averages. Also weigh graduation rates, enrollment figures, degree offerings, and school setting; the differences between the overall averages and top 10% schools show why it is useful to assess each institution's costs and outcomes individually.

How much does studying at a college in Washington, DC cost?

The average total cost of studying for a degree in Washington, DC, is $30,568.33, giving you a useful benchmark as you explore the capital's colleges. Reported average tuition and fees are $32,977.33, while average room and board is $17,861.80 and books and supplies add $1,143.56. These figures are separate averages, so don't add them together as one exact bill; your actual price depends on the school, program, housing, and financial aid.

Students considering Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, or Catholic University of America can use the benchmark to start comparing options. Before applying, check each institution's current cost-of-attendance estimate and ask how scholarships, grants, commuting, or living with family could change your out-of-pocket total. A campus housing choice can make a major difference in a city where rent and transport deserve careful planning.

Plan for essentials each term:

• Tuition and fees.
• Housing and meals.
• Books, supplies, transport, and personal costs.

How long does it take to finish college in Washington, DC?

Most full-time students in Washington, DC, complete a bachelor's degree in about four years; associate degrees commonly take about two. At Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, or the University of the District of Columbia, your timeline depends on program requirements, course availability, and whether you study full time. A degree can feel achievable when you map out each semester with an adviser.

Some students finish sooner by bringing in AP/IB or community-college credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing a heavier course load when manageable. Confirm transfer rules early, since requirements vary by school and major.

Across DC schools, the average graduation rate is 56.5%, while the top 10% of schools average 85.1%. Rates are 52.89% for men and 68.11% for women. These figures show completion varies, so use advising, tutoring, and financial support to stay on track and celebrate each milestone, keeping your graduation goal within reach.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in Washington, DC, you can use $56,506 a year as a median alumni salary benchmark. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is $64,718 - a promising indication of the earning potential a degree may offer.

DC students can choose from well-known institutions such as Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, and Catholic University of America. Your own salary will depend on factors such as your field, experience, and employer, but studying in the nation's capital can put you near opportunities in government, business, nonprofits, health care, and technology.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Washington?

There isn't one universally fixed count, because directories differ on whether they include colleges and specialized institutions alongside universities. A useful estimate is about 20 four-year universities in Washington state, including public and private institutions. For a prospective student, checking each school's accreditation and degree offerings is more useful than relying on a single statewide total.

What is the largest university in Washington?

The University of Washington is the state's largest university by enrollment. Its Seattle campus enrolls more than 50,000 students, giving it the energy and breadth of a major research institution: students can explore a wide range of academic programs, research opportunities, and campus activities. UW also has campuses in Bothell and Tacoma.

How many universities are there in Washington?

For a public-versus-private comparison, Washington has six state-supported four-year institutions, including the University of Washington and Washington State University, as well as several regional universities and The Evergreen State College. Private universities bring the overall total to roughly 20. The exact figure varies with the definition of "university" and which specialized schools are counted.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Washington, DC Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Washington, DC, Georgetown University combines a historic campus with access to the capital's government, nonprofit, and business communities. It enrolls 19,905 students, and its 13% acceptance rate makes admission highly selective. The 95% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools. Total study cost is $67,896, while median alumni salary is $64,718. Students interested in international affairs, law, or public service can study near influential institutions and build professional connections throughout the city and explore DC.

George Washington University places students in the heart of Washington, DC, close to federal agencies, museums, and international organizations. Its 24,500 students benefit from an urban campus and broad academic offerings. The university's 47% acceptance rate is less selective than Georgetown's, while 84% of students graduate. Total study cost is $67,420, and median alumni salary is $63,315. For a DC-based student, internships, research, and networking can connect classroom learning with the city's policy, communications, and professional opportunities across the region.

Howard University is a historically Black university in Washington, DC, known for its influential alumni and strengths in fields including law, medicine, and the arts. It enrolls 14,890 students; its 41% acceptance rate and 70% graduation rate describe its admissions and outcomes. Total study cost is $35,344, and median alumni salary is $53,193. Students can engage with the city's cultural life and public-service institutions while learning in a community with a distinctive legacy and national reach and a proud tradition.

American University, a private research university in Washington, DC, is known for international relations, public affairs, and experiential learning. Its 11,299 students study in a residential setting while remaining close to the capital's institutions and opportunities. The acceptance rate is 62%, and the graduation rate is 75%. Total study cost reaches $57,952; median alumni salary is $52,809. For local students, the location can make internships, policy events, and civic engagement part of an everyday college experience in the nation's capital.

Trinity Washington University is a small Catholic university in Washington, DC, with a strong tradition of educating women and serving diverse learners. Enrollment is 1,948, offering an intimate scale than the schools listed. Its 100% acceptance rate indicates open admission, while the graduation rate is 49%. Total study cost is $26,360, the lowest in this group, and median alumni salary is $52,100. Students can pursue a close-knit college experience while accessing internships, cultural resources, and careers across the capital.