Universities and Colleges Locations and Information in Washington, DC

Nestled on a historic campus overlooking the Potomac River, Georgetown University is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Jesuit institutions. Founded in 1789, it offers a rich blend of liberal arts, sciences, foreign service, and professional studies, attracting students from across the globe. The university is renowned for its rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and strong commitment to social justice and public service. Its picturesque architecture, sprawling green spaces, and proximity to Washington D.C.’s political and cultural epicenters create an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and growth. Students often praise the engaging faculty, the diverse student body, and the countless opportunities for internships and experiential learning within the capital.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Situated in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s Foggy Bottom neighborhood, The George Washington University (GWU) offers an unparalleled urban campus experience. Established in 1821, GWU is a private research university known for its strong programs in international affairs, political science, business, and health sciences. The university’s prime location places students steps away from the White House, the State Department, and numerous international organizations, providing unique opportunities for internships, research, and engagement with global leaders. The vibrant and diverse student body, coupled with a faculty comprising accomplished professionals and scholars, fosters an engaging and intellectually stimulating environment. Students often highlight the energy of city life seamlessly integrated with academic pursuits.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is the only public university in Washington, D.C., offering affordable and accessible higher education to residents and beyond. With a commitment to urban land-grant values, UDC provides a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its community college and university divisions. Located in Van Ness, the campus offers a welcoming atmosphere with modern facilities designed to support student success. UDC is recognized for its programs in engineering, nursing, and business, and its dedication to workforce development and community engagement. Students appreciate the supportive faculty, diverse student body, and the opportunity to contribute to the local community through service-learning initiatives.

Parking options

• ✔ Paid parking lot
• ✔ Paid street parking
• ✔ Paid garage parking

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Founded in 1867, Howard University is a prestigious, historically black private research university renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and significant contributions to African American leadership and scholarship. Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., Howard offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, including prominent schools of medicine, law, and engineering. The university’s distinguished faculty and strong academic programs attract talented students from across the globe, fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity and social consciousness. Students often praise the strong sense of community, the powerful alumni network, and the unique opportunities to engage with issues of social justice and civil rights in a historic setting.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

American University (AU) is a private research university located in a beautiful residential neighborhood in Northwest Washington, D.C. Known for its strong programs in international service, public affairs, communications, and business, AU attracts students passionate about making a difference in the world. The university’s strategic location provides unparalleled access to internships, policy discussions, and global organizations. AU fosters a globally aware and politically engaged student body, emphasizing experiential learning and community involvement. The campus offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, with students often commending the passionate professors, the vibrant student organizations, and the close-knit community that balances academic rigor with personal growth.

Parking options

• ✔ Paid parking lot
• ✔ Free street parking
• ✔ Paid street parking
• ✔ Paid garage parking

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Established in 1887, The Catholic University of America (CUA) is a national research university and the only institution of higher education founded by the U.S. bishops. Situated on a beautiful, leafy campus in Northeast Washington, D.C., CUA offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in faith, reason, and service. The university is known for its strong programs in nursing, engineering, architecture, and the arts, as well as its unique canonical programs. CUA provides a supportive and close-knit community where students can grow intellectually, spiritually, and personally. Its proximity to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception adds to its unique spiritual and academic atmosphere, and students often appreciate the strong sense of community and dedication to values-based education.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Located in a bustling downtown D.C. area, Windsor University offers a focused academic environment designed for practical, career-oriented education. This institution prides itself on providing flexible learning options and a strong emphasis on professional development, preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce. Its central location provides easy access to business and government centers, offering invaluable networking and internship opportunities. Windsor University cultivates a supportive atmosphere with dedicated faculty who bring real-world experience to the classroom. Students often highlight the personalized attention, the practical relevance of the curriculum, and the institution’s commitment to helping them achieve their career goals in a dynamic urban setting.

Parking options

• ✔ Paid parking lot
• ✔ Paid street parking
• ✔ Paid garage parking

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating

Gallaudet University, founded in 1864, holds a unique and vital place in higher education as the world’s only university designed to be a barrier-free learning environment for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Located in Northeast Washington, D.C., Gallaudet is a federally chartered private university and a leader in deaf education and advocacy. The campus fosters a vibrant and inclusive community where American Sign Language (ASL) and English are equally valued. Students benefit from specialized academic programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive network of faculty and peers. The university is celebrated for its commitment to bilingual education, cultural richness, and for empowering deaf individuals to achieve their full potential and contribute significantly to society.

Parking options

• ✔ Free parking lot
• ✔ Free garage parking

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

The National Defense University (NDU) is a premier institution for higher education focused on national security strategy, leadership, and joint military operations. Located at Fort McNair in Southwest Washington, D.C., NDU educates military and civilian leaders from the U.S. and allied nations. Its mission is to prepare these leaders to address complex security challenges in a dynamic global environment. The university provides an immersive and challenging academic experience, drawing on a wealth of expertise from seasoned military officers, government officials, and distinguished scholars. Students value the unique opportunity to collaborate with diverse professionals, gaining critical insights into strategic decision-making and international relations in a highly specialized environment.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Trinity Washington University, founded in 1897 as Trinity College, is a private Catholic university known for its commitment to empowering women, particularly through its historic undergraduate women’s college. Located in Northeast Washington, D.C., Trinity offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. The university fosters a supportive and inclusive learning environment, emphasizing academic excellence, leadership development, and social justice. Trinity’s close-knit community and dedicated faculty ensure personalized attention and mentorship, helping students achieve their academic and professional goals. Students often praise the strong sense of sisterhood, the empowering educational experience, and the opportunities for meaningful engagement within the D.C. community.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Bay Atlantic University (BAU) offers a modern and globally-focused education in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C. This international university provides a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong emphasis on business, cybersecurity, and global affairs. BAU prides itself on its innovative curriculum, experienced international faculty, and strong connections to the global professional community. The university’s downtown location provides students with unparalleled access to internships, networking events, and career opportunities within various government agencies, international organizations, and businesses. Students often appreciate the diverse student body, the global perspective embedded in the curriculum, and the practical skills gained for a competitive international job market.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

The University of the District of Columbia Community College (UDC-CC) is an integral part of the UDC system, providing accessible and affordable education to the residents of Washington, D.C. Located in Northeast D.C., UDC-CC offers a wide array of associate degree programs, workforce development, and continuing education courses. It serves as a vital pathway for students seeking to enter the workforce directly or to transfer to a four-year institution. The college is committed to student success, offering supportive services, small class sizes, and a nurturing environment. Students value the practical skills gained, the dedicated faculty, and the convenience of a community college experience within the nation’s capital, setting them on a path toward career advancement or further academic pursuits.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

The University of the Potomac, situated in the bustling financial district of downtown Washington, D.C., offers career-focused degree programs designed to equip students with practical skills for immediate employment. The university specializes in business administration, information technology, and healthcare administration, among other fields. Its strategic location provides students with exceptional access to internships and professional opportunities within government agencies, corporations, and non-profit organizations. The University of the Potomac emphasizes small class sizes, personalized attention, and a faculty with extensive industry experience. Students often commend the supportive learning environment, the flexible scheduling options, and the institution’s commitment to bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world career success.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Nexford University, with its presence in downtown Washington, D.C., offers a fully online, competency-based education model designed for working professionals and global learners. This innovative university provides accessible and affordable degree programs, including MBA and BBA, focusing on skills relevant to today’s evolving job market. Nexford’s flexible platform allows students to learn at their own pace, integrating their studies with their professional and personal lives. While primarily online, its D.C. presence provides a touchpoint within the capital. Students consistently praise the flexibility, the practical and modern curriculum, and the supportive community of instructors and peers who are all focused on career acceleration and skill development in a global context.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Georgetown College, the oldest and largest school within Georgetown University, serves as the heart of its undergraduate liberal arts education. Located on the main campus in Northwest D.C., the College offers a vast array of disciplines in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and languages. It is known for its rigorous curriculum, commitment to intellectual inquiry, and fostering critical thinking. Students here are immersed in a vibrant academic community, benefiting from world-class faculty and a rich tradition of scholarly pursuit. The atmosphere is one of profound intellectual engagement, where students are encouraged to explore diverse subjects and develop a broad understanding of the world, preparing them for leadership and service in various fields.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

The Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies (SCS) provides flexible and innovative educational programs designed for working professionals and adult learners. Located conveniently in downtown Washington, D.C., SCS offers a diverse portfolio of master’s degrees, professional certificates, and executive education programs in fields such as analytics, public relations, technology management, and real estate. The school prides itself on its practitioner-focused faculty who bring real-world expertise into the classroom, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant and immediately applicable. Students appreciate the dynamic learning environment, the opportunity to network with industry leaders, and the flexible scheduling options that accommodate busy professional lives while maintaining Georgetown’s high academic standards.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating

This American University location at 1717 K St NW serves as a specialized or extended campus, offering distinct programs or administrative functions separate from the main residential campus. Situated in the bustling K Street corridor, a hub for advocacy, lobbying, and professional services in Washington, D.C., this location provides unique opportunities for students and professionals to engage directly with policy-making and corporate environments. While smaller than the main campus, it fosters a focused atmosphere, ideal for specific graduate programs, executive education, or internship placements that benefit from direct access to the city’s professional landscape. Students here often value the strategic location and the direct connection to D.C.’s professional world, enhancing their career prospects.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance