(WASHINGTON, D.C.) The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) has once again earned national recognition, rising to #23 in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 rankings of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), up from #24 last year. This recognition comes during a period of sustained growth and investment at the only public university in Washington, D.C., and the nation’s only exclusively urban land-grant institution. 

With more than 80 academic programs across six colleges and schools, UDC offers a diverse range of educational opportunities, from workforce training and professional certifications to doctoral and law degrees and everything in between. To create even stronger alignment with regional job opportunities and a seamless track to jobs in industry, government and education, the university has expanded its menu of program offerings—adding cybersecurity, public health information technology, community health sciences and other growing fields—highlighting the university’s vital role in meeting the needs of its students and the region. 

“We are thrilled to be recognized once again as one of the top 25 HBCUs in the nation,” said President Maurice D. Edington. “This ranking reflects our commitment to providing a high-quality, affordable education to students from all backgrounds. As the only public university in the District and the only exclusively urban land-grant institution in the country, we take great pride in serving our community and offering students an education that prepares them for the challenges of tomorrow.” 

UDC continues to make significant strides in campus improvements and facilities development, thanks in part to a $97.5 million capital investment from the D.C. government. These improvements include a new state-of-the-art library, a new athletic field and the upcoming construction of a second biomedical engineering lab focused on age-related movement issues. Additionally, planning is underway for a Pepco Demonstration Power Lab, which will further expand UDC’s research capabilities. 

“UDC’s continued rise in national rankings underscores the quality and impact of our academic programs,” said Chief Academic Officer April Massey. “Close to 90% of our full-time faculty have the highest-level degrees in their fields and along with the addition of 35 new faculty members this year, we are ensuring that our students receive a world-class education. Together, we continue to advance our mission of academic excellence and student success and to deliver on the promise of a high-value, public higher education in the nation’s capital.” 

UDC’s David A. Clarke School of Law is also making waves, ranked #16 in the nation for clinical training by U.S. News & World Report and voted the top law school by nontraditional and minority students. In addition, the School of Business and Public Administration continues to be among the elite 6% of business schools worldwide that are AACSB-accredited, while UDC’s computer engineering program was ranked the #1 HBCU program by Best Colleges. 

The university is also home to a vibrant student life, with more than 40 clubs and organizations that engage students outside the classroom and to make connections that can last a lifetime. “Our students are achieving great things in the classroom and in their communities,” said Chief Student Development and Success Officer Teri Little-Berry. “Whether it’s through internships, organizations or community service, our students are making a difference on campus and beyond. We are proud of their achievements and excited about the future.” 

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About the University of the District of Columbia
The University of the District of Columbia is the only public university in Washington, D.C., and the second-oldest Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in the United States, dating back to 1851. UDC is home to more than 80 academic programs, a nationally recognized law school, a bustling community college and workforce development programs on multiple campuses.