Top Universities in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is not only a political and cultural hub but also a prominent center for higher education. The city boasts a variety of universities, each with unique academic strengths and histories, contributing significantly to the national and international educational landscape. Below are some of the leading universities in Washington, D.C., each offering distinctive academic programs and a strong commitment to student development and community engagement.

Georgetown University stands as one of the most prestigious universities in Washington, D.C., and the United States. Founded in 1789, Georgetown is a private, Jesuit university known for its distinguished academic programs in law, international relations, public policy, and business. Georgetown’s Law Center is particularly renowned, consistently ranked among the top law schools in the country. The university’s School of Foreign Service (SFS) is a leader in training future diplomats and public servants. Georgetown's influence in global affairs is reflected in its alumni network, which includes prominent figures in government, business, and international diplomacy. According to the National Association of College and University Business Officers' (NACUBO) 2010 assessment, Georgetown is ranked 68th among 842 U.S. and Canadian institutions of higher learning. This ranking reflects its consistent academic quality and status as a leading institution in Washington, D.C.

Howard University, established in 1867 by an Act of Congress, holds a special place in American higher education as a historically black university (HBCU). It is one of the most prestigious and influential universities for African American students and has produced numerous leaders in fields such as politics, science, literature, and law. Howard’s medical school, law school, and college of engineering are particularly well-regarded. The university’s role as an incubator for black leadership is a cornerstone of its mission, and it continues to be recognized as a top institution for African American students. In the 2010 U.S. News & World Report ranking of Best National Universities, Howard was ranked in the top 100, further cementing its status as a leading institution in the country.

George Washington University (GWU), founded in 1821, is another prominent private research university in Washington, D.C. GWU’s location offers students unparalleled access to national government agencies, international organizations, think tanks, and policy institutes. The university’s programs in political science, international relations, and public health are nationally recognized. The School of Business, Law School, and Milken Institute School of Public Health are key components of the university's academic reputation. Additionally, George Washington University is often ranked highly by organizations such as U.S. News & World Report, Princeton Review, and Financial Times, underscoring the university's stature both domestically and internationally. With its strong connections to government and international bodies, GWU is known for offering practical learning experiences through internships, research opportunities, and networking.

American University (AU), a private institution established in 1893, is known for its focus on public affairs, international relations, and communications. AU is particularly respected for its programs in journalism, political science, and law. In 2009, Princeton Review ranked AU as a great school for journalism majors, and Hollywood Reporter recognized the university as one of the top film schools in the country. Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., American University offers students access to internship opportunities in government, media, and nonprofit organizations. The university’s School of International Service is particularly renowned, regularly ranked among the best in the world for international relations studies. AU has a long history of emphasizing civic engagement and public service, making it an ideal choice for students interested in public policy, social justice, and global affairs.

University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is the only public university in Washington, D.C., and offers affordable education to District residents at the certificate, associate’s, bachelor’s, and graduate levels. As a comprehensive public institution, UDC is dedicated to serving a diverse student body, particularly in fields such as urban studies, education, and business. The university is a key player in providing accessible higher education to students from across D.C. While UDC may not have the same national reputation as some of the private institutions in the city, its commitment to quality and affordable education for local students has made it an essential part of Washington, D.C.’s educational ecosystem.

Catholic University of America, founded in 1887, is a private Catholic university that has a unique focus on the integration of faith and reason in its academic programs. Catholic University offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, and it is particularly well-known for its theological and philosophical programs, including ecclesiastical faculties that grant canonical degrees in areas such as theology, canon law, and philosophy. The university also has strong schools in engineering, education, and music, with its Benjamin T. Rome School of Music being one of the leading music programs in the country. Catholic University serves a diverse student body and offers students the opportunity to explore their academic and spiritual lives in a community grounded in Catholic intellectual tradition.

Gallaudet University is a unique institution in the United States, as it is the world’s only university designed to accommodate deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Founded in 1864, Gallaudet University has a long-standing commitment to providing educational opportunities for students with hearing impairments. It offers a full range of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines, including arts, sciences, business, education, and more. Gallaudet is a leader in the use of technology to support the academic and extracurricular needs of its students, providing innovative tools and services to enhance the learning experience. The university’s close-knit, culturally rich environment fosters the growth of students both personally and professionally. It is internationally recognized as a leader in deaf education and research.

Strayer University, founded in 1892, is a private, for-profit institution that offers programs primarily designed to meet the needs of working adults. It provides flexible online and on-campus courses at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. Strayer University is particularly known for its business programs, and it has earned regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The university offers students the opportunity to earn degrees in various fields, including business administration, information technology, and criminal justice, with a focus on developing practical skills for professional advancement.

National Defense University (NDU), located at Fort Lesley J. McNair in Washington, D.C., is the U.S. government’s premier institution for joint professional military education. It offers programs designed to prepare military officers, defense civilians, and international military officers for leadership roles in national defense and international security. NDU plays a crucial role in shaping U.S. defense policy and strategy through its educational programs, which include advanced degrees and certificates in areas such as strategic studies, security, and defense analysis. The university also conducts research in defense policy and national security issues, making it an integral part of the U.S. Department of Defense’s educational framework.

Trinity Washington University, a private Catholic institution founded in 1897, is committed to providing affordable education to women, although it also offers programs for men at the graduate level. Trinity is known for its strong liberal arts programs and emphasis on service, leadership, and social justice. The university’s graduate programs in social work, business, and education are particularly well-regarded. Trinity’s commitment to empowering women, particularly women of color, is central to its mission, and it has a strong reputation for supporting students from diverse backgrounds.

Washington, D.C., as a hub of political, cultural, and intellectual activity, provides students at these universities with exceptional opportunities to engage with national and international issues, pursue internships, and build professional networks. Whether through institutions like Georgetown University and George Washington University with their prestigious academic programs, or specialized institutions like Gallaudet University and the National Defense University, Washington, D.C. offers students a diverse range of educational experiences that are enhanced by the city’s unique resources and global connections. Each of these universities plays an essential role in shaping the future of the nation's leaders, innovators, and thinkers.