Cheapest College Programs in District of Columbia

Public institutions dominate the affordable education scene in DC, with University of the District of Columbia leading at approximately $7,200 for in-state tuition. The campus serves over 4,000 students across 32 major programs, making higher education accessible in one of America's most expensive cities. Trinity Washington University offers competitive private rates around $25,000, while Georgetown and American University command premium prices exceeding $60,000 annually. DC's unique position as the nation's capital creates direct pipelines to federal employment, with over 180,000 government jobs within city limits. Local students benefit from DC Tuition Assistance Grants covering up to $10,000 yearly at out-of-state public universities. The city's concentration of policy think tanks, nonprofits, and international organizations provides internship opportunities that often translate to full-time positions. Community college pathways through UDC Community College allow students to complete prerequisites at $4,320 per year before transferring. Financial aid rates exceed 85% at most DC institutions, reflecting the city's commitment to education access despite high living costs averaging $2,400 monthly for housing.

Programs in District of Columbia

Programs by affordability
Program	Most Affordable School	Net Price
Accounting and Related Services	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Area Studies	The Catholic University of America	$32,798
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Biology, General	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Business Administration, Management and Operations	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Chemistry	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Communication and Media Studies	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Computer and Information Sciences, General	Gallaudet University	$14,085
Computer Science	University of the District of Columbia	$14,693
Criminal Justice and Corrections	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft	Gallaudet University	$14,085
Economics	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
English Language and Literature, General	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies	Gallaudet University	$14,085
Finance and Financial Management Services	University of the District of Columbia	$14,693
Fine and Studio Arts	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
History	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
International Business	University of the Potomac-Washington DC Campus	$18,868
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Marketing	University of the District of Columbia	$14,693
Mathematics	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Music	University of the District of Columbia	$14,693
Philosophy	Gallaudet University	$14,085
Physics	University of the District of Columbia	$14,693
Political Science and Government	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Psychology, General	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Public Health	Gallaudet University	$14,085
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Religion/Religious Studies	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics	Gallaudet University	$14,085
Sociology	Trinity Washington University	$12,233
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods	Trinity Washington University	$12,233

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of the District of Columbia the most affordable option?

UDC charges approximately $7,200 for in-state tuition, significantly lower than private institutions. As DC's public university, it receives local funding support and offers need-based aid to over 75% of students, making degrees accessible to working families.

How do DC Tuition Assistance Grants help students save money?

These grants provide up to $10,000 annually for DC residents attending out-of-state public universities. Students can access in-state tuition rates at over 300 institutions nationwide, expanding affordable options beyond the district's limited public choices.

Is community college a viable pathway for degree completion?

UDC Community College charges $4,320 annually for district residents. Students can complete general education requirements and transfer to four-year programs, potentially saving over $15,000 compared to starting at private institutions immediately.

Does living in DC offset lower tuition costs?

Housing averages $2,400 monthly, among the nation's highest. However, extensive Metro access reduces transportation costs, and federal internships often provide stipends. Many students live in Maryland or Virginia suburbs where rent drops 30-40%.

Where do graduates typically find employment after graduation?

Federal agencies hire over 25,000 new employees annually in DC. Major contractors like Booz Allen Hamilton and Deloitte maintain large local offices. The nonprofit sector employs 14% of the workforce, creating varied career paths.

All Colleges in District of Columbia Best Colleges in District of Columbia Best Value Programs in District of Columbia

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships. See our methodology.