Colleges and universities in the District of Columbia facts for kids

Georgetown University

Washington, D.C., the capital city of the United States, is home to many important places, including lots of colleges and universities. These are places where students go after high school to learn more about a specific subject and earn a degree. Think of them as advanced schools where you can study almost anything, from science and history to art and law. Many students from all over the world come to D.C. to study because of its unique location and the many opportunities it offers.

What are Colleges and Universities?

A college or university is a place for higher education. This means it's where people go to learn after they finish high school. Students can study many different subjects, like science, history, art, or business. When they finish their studies, they earn a special certificate called a degree. These degrees show that they have learned a lot about their chosen field.

Public vs. Private Schools

Colleges and universities can be either public or private. The main difference is how they get their money.

• Public universities usually get some money from the government. This often means the cost to attend them, called tuition, can be lower, especially for students who live in that state or district.
• Private universities get most of their money from student tuition, donations, and other private sources. They do not usually get money from the government.

Public Universities in D.C.

Washington, D.C., has a few public universities that serve different purposes.

• National Defense University: This university is very special. It trains military officers and government leaders. They learn about national security and how to protect the country. It's a place for advanced studies for those already working in defense.
• National War College: This is part of the National Defense University. It focuses on teaching top military and civilian leaders about national security strategy. It helps them prepare for important roles in government and defense.
• University of the District of Columbia: This is the only public university that serves the people of Washington, D.C. It offers many different programs, from two-year associate degrees to four-year bachelor's degrees and even advanced degrees. It helps local students get a good education close to home.

Private Universities in D.C.

D.C. is also home to many well-known private universities. These schools attract students from all over the world.

• American University: This university is known for its programs in international relations, politics, and communication. It's a great place to study if you are interested in how countries work together or how news is shared.
• Catholic University of America: This university is connected to the Catholic Church. It offers a wide range of subjects, including arts, sciences, and engineering. It's known for its strong academic programs and its beautiful campus.
• Corcoran College of Art and Design: This school is famous for teaching art and design. Students learn about painting, sculpture, photography, and other creative arts. It's a place where future artists develop their skills.
• Gallaudet University: This is a very unique university. It is specifically designed for deaf and hard of hearing students. It uses American Sign Language (ASL) for teaching and communication. It's a leader in education and research for the deaf community.
• Georgetown University: This is one of the oldest and most famous universities in the United States. It's known for its strong programs in law, international relations, and medicine. Many important leaders and thinkers have studied here.
• George Washington University: Located right in the heart of D.C., this university is known for its programs in political science, public policy, and international affairs. Its location near government buildings gives students unique learning opportunities.
• Howard University: This is a historically Black university. It has a rich history and is known for its strong programs in medicine, law, and engineering. It has played a very important role in African American education and civil rights.
• Southeastern University: This university focuses on business and professional studies. It helps students prepare for careers in various industries.
• Strayer University: This university offers many online programs, making it flexible for students who work or have other responsibilities. It focuses on business and technology degrees.
• Trinity Washington University: This university was originally founded as a college for women. Today, it offers programs for both women and men, focusing on liberal arts and professional studies.
• Wesley Theological Seminary: This school is a seminary, which means it trains people to become religious leaders, specifically for the Methodist church. Students learn about theology and ministry.

These universities and colleges make Washington, D.C., a very important center for learning and research in the United States.