Most
Popular Colleges in District of Columbia in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in the District of Columbia combines management theory with skills for organizations across government, nonprofit, and private sectors. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, finance, business law, organizational behavior, and strategic management. Graduates often pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations managers, or project coordinators. Popular options include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, and the University of the District of Columbia, each offering business study opportunities.

Psychology

Studying psychology in the District of Columbia offers coursework in research methods, statistics, cognitive and developmental psychology, neuroscience, and social behavior. Students can pursue bachelor's or graduate degrees at Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, American University, Catholic University of America, and the University of the District of Columbia. Graduates commonly work as case managers, human resources specialists, behavioral health technicians, or research assistants; clinical roles generally require graduate training, supervised experience, and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in the District of Columbia combines programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, cybersecurity, databases, and artificial intelligence. Students also develop teamwork and problem-solving skills through projects and internships. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, or IT consultants. Popular local choices include Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, and the University of the District of Columbia, each offering pathways to computing study and professional opportunities.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in the District of Columbia combines theory with supervised practice in helping people address mental-health and life concerns. Typical courses include counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, multicultural counseling, and research methods. Programs often require field placements. Graduates may become licensed professional counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, or mental-health clinicians, depending on degree and licensure. Popular options include George Washington University, Howard University, Catholic University of America, and Trinity Washington University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in the District of Columbia offers pathways. Programs cover anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, community health, pediatrics, and mental health, plus clinical rotations. Graduates may become registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, public health agencies, or long-term care facilities. Further study can lead to nurse educator or advanced practice positions. Popular options include Georgetown University, Howard University, Catholic University of America, and the University of the District of Columbia.

Best Colleges in District of Columbia Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 56,930.0, compared with 67,610.4 at schools in the top 10%, making the top group higher in median cost.
• 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, while schools in the top 10% average 29,894.0 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 6,004.0 men and 11,162.0 women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,277.4 and 27.6, respectively.
• Schools average 11,343.29 enrolled students, with averages of 467.0 enrolled men and 894.0 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 71.29%, compared with 88.4% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 74.0% for men and 77.0% for women.
• Four institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, seven offer master's degrees, and six offer doctor's degrees.
• There are six coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid availability, and consider how the acceptance rate and applicant numbers relate to your preferences. Also weigh the reported SAT and ACT scores, enrollment figures, graduation rates, degree offerings, and whether a school's coeducational setting suits you.

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

In District of Columbia, the average reported total cost of studying is $47,170. For a local student, that figure offers a useful starting point, though your actual degree budget will depend on college, program, housing, and how many years you attend.

Average costs reported for key expenses are:

• Tuition and fees average $49,988.71.
• Room and board average $18,917.14.
• Books and supplies average $1,313.

These figures can help you compare options at DC schools such as Howard University, Georgetown University, George Washington University, American University, and the University of the District of Columbia. Living at home, sharing housing, using student aid, or choosing an in-state public option may make your plan more manageable for many local students.

For an apples-to-apples budget, ask each college for its current cost of attendance and financial aid estimate; tuition alone does not capture every expense, while housing choices and program requirements can shift your total.

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

In District of Columbia, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. Students at Georgetown University, Howard University, George Washington University, American University, or the University of the District of Columbia should check each program's course sequence, since majors and clinical or internship requirements can affect timing. To help set expectations, the average graduation rate across DC schools is 71.29%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 88.4%. Rates average 71.0% for men and 73.57% for women, showing many students do complete, though outcomes vary by school and student.

Explore these DC options to accelerate:

• Apply AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits accepted by your DC college.
• Use summer courses or accelerated terms to complete degree requirements sooner when manageable.
• Transfer eligible credits or ask about credit-by-exam options.
• Meet an adviser early to ensure every course counts toward your major.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in the District of Columbia earn a median alumni salary of about $53,193. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is approximately $63,876. These figures offer a helpful benchmark as you compare programs, but your own earnings can vary with your field, experience, and career path.

Whether you're considering Georgetown University, George Washington University, Howard University, or American University, studying in DC can put you close to employers and professional networks in areas such as government, public policy, healthcare, business, and technology. That proximity may help you explore internships and career opportunities while earning your degree, though it does not guarantee a particular salary after graduation.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in District of Columbia?

George Washington University (GW) is generally the District's largest university by total enrollment. Its student community includes both undergraduate and graduate students, creating a broad campus network in the heart of the city. Enrollment figures change from year to year, but GW is a strong answer if you mean the college with the most students attending.

What is the most popular school in District of Columbia?

There is no official ranking for "most popular," since the word could mean most applications, largest enrollment, or greatest name recognition. If you mean the size of the student community, GW is a leading choice. If you are comparing schools, look at programs, campus experience, and costs too - those can matter more to your fit.

What is the most famous university in District of Columbia?

Georgetown University is arguably the District's best-known university, with a longstanding national profile and a prominent location in the nation's capital. Its reputation and recognizable name can make it an appealing option, especially for students interested in international affairs, government, business, or studying near major cultural and civic institutions.

What is the hardest university to get into in District of Columbia?

Georgetown University is generally the District's most selective major university. Its competitive admissions process means strong grades and coursework are important, alongside a thoughtful application that shows your interests and character. Selectivity varies by program and year, so check the latest admissions information and build a balanced list of schools that suit you.

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

Located in Washington, D.C., Georgetown University offers a prominent setting for students seeking a degree in the nation's capital. Its enrollment is 19,905, with a 95% graduation rate and a selective 13% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $67,896, while median alumni salary is $64,718. Students can study near government agencies, cultural institutions, and internship opportunities, gaining access to a lively urban environment while building academic and professional connections across Washington, D.C., and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Howard University provides a historic university experience in Washington, D.C., with access to the city's civic, cultural, and professional life. It enrolls 14,890 students, reports a 70% graduation rate, and has a 41% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $35,344, and median alumni salary is $53,193. For District of Columbia residents, its urban location can make internships, public service, and community engagement especially accessible alongside academic study. The campus offers a close-knit setting within the capital city and broader region.

George Washington University places students in central Washington, D.C., where policy, international affairs, health, and business are part of the surrounding environment. Enrollment is 24,500, graduation rate is 84%, and acceptance rate is 47%. The total cost of studying is $67,420, while median alumni salary is $63,315. Its city-based setting gives District of Columbia students opportunities to connect coursework with museums, organizations, and internships, though living and studying in the capital may involve navigating an urban environment and its expenses.

Gallaudet University is a distinctive Washington, D.C., institution centered on the education and experiences of deaf and hard-of-hearing students, with a campus community shaped by sign language and accessibility. It enrolls 1,325 students; its graduation rate is 47%, and its acceptance rate is 58%. The total cost of studying is $18,288, the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $39,424. Its location gives District of Columbia students access to capital-city resources within a smaller university setting locally.

American University offers a campus-based university experience in Washington, D.C., pairing an academic setting with proximity to national institutions, nonprofits, and the city's cultural life. It has 11,299 enrolled students, a 75% graduation rate, and a 62% acceptance rate. Total cost of studying is $57,952, and median alumni salary is $52,809. For a District of Columbia student, the location can support participation in internships and local events while providing a university campus distinct from the downtown environment of the capital.