(Washington, D.C.) In their search for a high-quality, affordable education, a growing number of people are choosing the University of the District of Columbia. Enrollment at UDC, the second-oldest HBCU in the country and the only public university in the nation’s capital, has surged from 3,855 in fall 2023 to 4,202 in fall 2024—an increase of 9%.
The university has steadily increased its student population over the past two years, said Vice President of Enrollment Services Hasanna Tyus, in contrast with the national trend of declining enrollment.
“As today’s businesses demand more technological skills, and higher education gets more expensive, more Americans are either unwilling or unable to pay the high price associated with a college degree,” said Tyus. “UDC is unique in that it offers not only in-demand programs, but also an affordable education at all levels—from recent high school graduates to the person returning to school after 30 years in the workforce.”
Thanks to its deep roots in the District and commitment to the community it serves, UDC offers a starting point and a pathway for everyone, said President Maurice Edington.
“The university offers an on-ramp for residents wherever they are in their journey,” Edington said. “We have workforce certification, associate, bachelor’s and graduate programs, as well as a top-rated law school. Our strategic plan, Delivering on the Promise, focuses on improving student outcomes by making sure we provide an education that helps them achieve their goals.”
University staff attribute the enrollment growth to focused strategic planning and initiatives.
“We are forming more meaningful partnerships with area high schools and have streamlined operations to make applying and enrolling at UDC much easier,” said Director of Undergraduate Admissions Terrence Britt. “We’ve also re-engaged with students who attended in the past but left before earning their degree and nontraditional students who want to update or increase their education, but may be unsure. We want all perspective students, from all walks of life, to know that we are here to make their journey as successful as possible.”