Most
Affordable Colleges in District of Columbia in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in the District of Columbia offers access to a hub of government, nonprofits, and global organizations. Programs commonly cover accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and analytics, with opportunities for internships and networking. Popular choices include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, and the University of the District of Columbia. Graduates pursue roles as management analysts, marketing coordinators, financial analysts, human resources specialists, project managers, or operations managers.

Psychology

Studying psychology in the District of Columbia offers access to research centers, internships and diverse communities. Courses typically include developmental, cognitive, social and abnormal psychology, statistics, research methods and neuroscience. Popular choices include Georgetown University, George Washington University, American University, Howard University, Catholic University of America and the University of the District of Columbia. Graduates may pursue roles in counseling support, human resources, healthcare, education, market research or social services. Clinical positions require graduate study.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in the District of Columbia combines programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build practical skills through projects, internships, and research opportunities across government, nonprofits, and technology firms. Popular local choices include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, and the University of the District of Columbia. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT project managers today.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in the District of Columbia combines classroom learning with supervised practical experience. Typical courses include counseling theories, human development, ethics, group counseling, assessment, multicultural practice, and research methods. Programs commonly prepare graduates for roles such as mental health counselor, school counselor, career counselor, substance-use counselor, or community-services coordinator, with licensure requirements varying by specialty. District colleges offering counseling-related degrees include George Washington University, Howard University, American University, and Trinity Washington University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in the District of Columbia combines classroom learning with clinical experience. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, mental health, and community health. Programs also develop communication, evidence-based practice, and patient-safety skills. Popular local options include Georgetown University, Howard University, the University of the District of Columbia, Catholic University of America, and Trinity Washington University. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses, clinical nurses, public-health nurses, or care coordinators.

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 overall median substantially lower.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, 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, compared with 29,894.0 at top-10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 6,004.0, while the median number of female applicants is 11,162.0.
• 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 numbers of enrolled men and women are 467.0 and 894.0, respectively.
• 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, 11 offer master's degrees, and nine offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 10 coeducational schools.
• When comparing colleges, potential students should weigh the median cost and availability of financial aid against acceptance rates, test scores, enrollment figures, degree offerings, and graduation rates. The differences in costs, aid, and graduation rates between the overall figures and those for top-10% schools may also help students identify which factors matter most to their goals.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in the District of Columbia is $30,568.33. This is a practical starting point for estimating what it may cost to pursue a degree locally, although your actual expenses vary by school, program, and housing choice.

• Tuition and fees average $32,977.33.
• Room and board average $17,861.80.
• Books and supplies average $1,143.56.

Popular options include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, and American University; comparing their aid offers and commuting or housing plans can help you find a comfortable fit. Students already living in DC may lower housing expenses by staying at home, while others may value campus life and the convenience of living near classes. Check each college's current cost of attendance and financial aid, since scholarships, grants, and program requirements affect what you pay. Comparing schools and planning ahead can make your degree goal feel more achievable. Your next step is comparing.

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

In District of Columbia, plan on about four years for a full-time bachelor's degree, two years for an associate degree, and roughly one to two years beyond a bachelor's for many master's programs. At local institutions such as Georgetown University, Howard University, George Washington University, and the University of the District of Columbia, your exact timeline depends on your program, course availability, and whether you study full time. Many students take longer when balancing work, family, or part-time enrollment, so your schedule can be personal - not a setback.

Across schools, the average graduation rate is 56.5%; for the top 10% of schools, it is 85.1%. Rates are 52.89% for men and 68.11% for women, showing that completion outcomes vary and that steady support can matter.

To finish faster:

• Apply eligible AP, IB, or transfer credits.
• Take summer courses or heavier loads.
• Map an accelerated route early with an academic adviser.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in the District of Columbia earn a median alumni salary of about $54,850. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $65,876, offering an encouraging benchmark as you consider your options.

In DC, you can explore schools such as Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, and the University of the District of Columbia. Your own earnings will depend on factors such as your field, experience, and employer, so these figures are useful reference points rather than guaranteed salaries.

People also ask

What college in District of Columbia has the lowest tuition?

For a District of Columbia resident, the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is a strong candidate because it is the District's public university and offers in-district tuition. I can't confirm it has the lowest tuition among every local college without current, comparable tuition figures. Check the latest rates and fees for your program before deciding.

What college in District of Columbia has the lowest GPA requirement?

I can't reliably identify one college as having the lowest GPA requirement from the information provided. Admissions standards can differ by program and applicant type, and some colleges assess applications without publishing a firm minimum GPA. Contact UDC and other colleges' admissions offices to ask about minimums, conditional admission, and how they review applicants with lower GPAs.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in District of Columbia Ranking in 2026-2027

The University of the District of Columbia is a public university serving students in Washington, DC, and the District community. For a local student seeking a degree close to home, its reported enrollment is 4,202 and its total study cost is $12,144, making it the lowest listed cost among schools with data except Windsor. Its graduation rate is 33%; acceptance information is unavailable. Median alumni salary is $51,332, a useful outcome point to consider alongside program availability and financial aid.

The University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus provides a local option for District of Columbia residents who want to study in the capital. The available figures list 1,241 enrolled students and a total study cost of $5,760, the lowest amount among the schools with cost data. Its graduation rate is 33%, while acceptance information is unavailable. Median alumni salary is $76,294, the highest figure supplied here, offering prospective students an outcome to weigh against program fit and cost when deciding.

Windsor University appears in the District of Columbia student comparison, but the supplied information is sparse. It gives no enrollment, graduation rate, acceptance rate, or median alumni salary, so applicants should seek details about degree offerings, campus location, accreditation, and outcomes before making plans. The listed total study cost is $1; because that figure is unusually low, treat it as an unverified data point rather than a full estimate of tuition and fees. For DC residents, confirm all costs directly.

Gallaudet University is a Washington, DC, institution known for its focus on deaf and hard-of-hearing education and signed-language access. It enrolls 1,325 students, reports a 47% graduation rate and 58% acceptance rate, and lists total study costs of $18,288. The median alumni salary provided is $39,424. For DC-area applicants, its specialized academic community may be a distinctive consideration; compare individual programs, available support, and financial aid when estimating the actual cost of earning a degree and planning their next steps wisely.

NewU University is a small institution in this comparison, with 34 enrolled students reported and a listed total study cost of $5,000. No graduation rate, acceptance rate, or median alumni salary is available, so those measures remain unclear for prospective students. If you live in the District of Columbia, ask whether your intended degree can be completed locally or remotely, and verify tuition, fees, accreditation, and student services directly. The limited figures make careful research important before applying or budgeting.