University of the District of Columbia
The Vibe Check
University of the District of Columbia has a distinct commuter-school atmosphere, with a diverse student body balancing academics with work and life in the city. The campus feels like a tight-knit urban community rather than a traditional residential college, fostering resilience and practical ambition. It feels grounded and real, reflecting the pulse of Washington, DC.
Academics & Majors
UDC is the only public university in Washington, DC, offering strong programs in Business, Education, and Health Professions. The university emphasizes practical, career-focused learning with small class sizes that allow for direct faculty interaction. Students have access to unique research opportunities through partnerships with federal agencies and local DC organizations.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Washington
Students have the entire nation's capital at their fingertips for internships, culture, and entertainment. Weekends can be spent exploring the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall, catching concerts at the 9:30 Club, or enjoying the vibrant food and nightlife scenes in neighborhoods like U Street and Shaw. The extensive Metro system makes it easy to access everything the city offers.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($44,236):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The main campus is located in the historic Petworth neighborhood, which is generally considered a safe, residential area of DC. Like any major city, students should practice urban awareness, especially when traveling to and from campus via public transit.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely affordable tuition for DC residents
- ✓ Prime location in Washington, DC for internships and federal jobs
- ✓ Open-enrollment policy provides accessible higher education
- ✓ Strong focus on career-oriented programs like Health and Business
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation and retention rates suggest challenges with student completion
- ✗ Limited on-campus residential life and traditional college atmosphere
- ✗ Smaller campus size may offer fewer resources than larger universities
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UDC is known as the only public university in the nation's capital, offering accessible education with a focus on career-ready majors like Business, Health Professions, and Education. It is also recognized for its unique law school, the David A. Clarke School of Law, which is highly regarded for its clinical programs and focus on social justice.
No, UDC has an open-enrollment policy, making it accessible to most applicants. While there isn't a highly competitive admissions process, applicants are still reviewed for readiness. The key is to complete the application requirements and demonstrate a commitment to pursuing higher education.
Campus life is centered around a diverse, commuter-focused student body, with a strong sense of community among those who live on or near campus. Student life is more academically and professionally oriented, with many students balancing work and studies, but there are still active student organizations and events. The location in DC is the main attraction, with campus life extending into the city itself.
For DC residents, UDC is an outstanding financial value, with tuition under $7,000 and significant need-based aid available. The return on investment is strong, especially when leveraging the university's location for high-paying internships and jobs in the federal government and private sectors. For out-of-state students, the value is more moderate but still competitive.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 4,160
- In-State Tuition $6,152
- Out-of-State $13,004
- Zip Code 20008
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state tuition of just $6,152 and a relatively low average net price, UDC offers exceptional financial value for DC residents. The 10-year median earnings of $44,236 provide a solid return on investment, especially considering the low upfront cost. For out-of-state students, the value is less pronounced, but still competitive compared to many other universities.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.