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Catholic Colleges in District of Columbia

5 schools in District of Columbia. See our methodology.

Georgetown University stands as the crown jewel among District of Columbia's Catholic institutions, commanding a 12.2% acceptance rate while delivering median earnings of $103,494 for graduates. The capital's five Catholic colleges span an enormous financial spectrum, from Trinity Washington University's $12,233 net price to Georgetown's $39,433. This range reflects the district's unique position as both a government center requiring accessible education and home to elite institutions serving international students. Catholic University of America occupies the middle ground with 85.6% acceptance and strong ties to the city's nonprofit sector. Graduation rates vary dramatically from 44.4% to 94.3%, mirroring the different student populations these schools serve. Washington's federal employment opportunities benefit graduates across all these institutions, though Georgetown alumni command the highest premium in the competitive D.C. job market. The presence of specialized pontifical institutes adds theological depth to the region's Catholic educational offerings.
5
Schools
$28,155
Avg. Net Price
$76,849
Avg. Earnings
73.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Catholic Colleges in District of Columbia

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 7,462 $39,433 94.3% 12.2%
2 3,063 $32,798 81.3% 85.6%
3 1,415 $12,233 44.4% 97.0%
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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Georgetown University so selective compared to other Catholic colleges in D.C.?

Georgetown accepts just 12.2% of applicants while other Catholic institutions in the district maintain acceptance rates above 85%. This selectivity stems from Georgetown's international reputation and location in Washington, attracting students seeking careers in government, law, and diplomacy.

How do graduation rates vary among Catholic colleges in the District of Columbia?

Graduation rates span from Trinity Washington's 44.4% to Georgetown's 94.3%, with Catholic University achieving 81.3%. These differences reflect varying student preparation levels, institutional resources, and the distinct missions each school serves within the Catholic educational community.

Does attending a Catholic college in D.C. lead to higher earnings?

Georgetown graduates earn a median $103,494, significantly above the $73,250 earned by Catholic University alumni and $53,804 by Trinity Washington graduates. The district's concentration of high-paying federal and nonprofit positions benefits all graduates differently based on their networks and preparation.

What role do specialized Catholic institutions play in Washington's educational scene?

The Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception and Pontifical John Paul II Institute offer specialized theological and family studies programs. These smaller institutions serve specific Catholic academic communities while complementing the broader undergraduate offerings at Georgetown, Catholic University, and Trinity Washington.

Is Trinity Washington University a good value for Catholic education in D.C.?

Trinity Washington offers the lowest net price at $12,233 among Catholic colleges in the district, making Catholic higher education accessible in an expensive city. While graduation rates lag at 44.4%, the school serves students who might otherwise lack access to Catholic education in the capital.

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.