The University of the District of Columbia has once again been recognized among the nation’s top 25 historically Black colleges and universities, ranking #24 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2027 Best Colleges rankings and #14 among public HBCUs.
“UDC’s place among the nation’s top HBCUs reflects the extraordinary work taking place across our university every day,” said UDC President Maurice D. Edington. “We are incredibly proud of our legacy as the only public university in the nation’s capital and the second-oldest HBCU in the country. As we celebrate 175 years of turning potential into power, we look forward to building an even stronger university for the generations ahead. We remain committed to delivering a high-quality education, creating pathways to economic mobility and producing innovative research that serves the District and beyond.”
UDC has now ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s top 25 HBCUs for five consecutive years and comes during a period of sustained growth, including:
- New and expanded academic opportunities: UDC launched its new School of Education and Learning Sciences, building on its earliest roots as a teacher-training institution and strengthening pathways for the next generation of educators. The university also launched a new Master of Social Work program designed in part to help meet the District’s need for behavioral health professionals, with extensive field experience and pathways into the local workforce.
- Accelerating research and innovation: UDC recently secured nearly $16 million in federal research investments, including a $9.9 million award to expand research capacity, a $4.9 million National Science Foundation award supporting the next phase of the Center for Nanotechnology Research and Education, and a nearly $1 million DURIP award to establish an integrated geo-structural testing platform for resilient infrastructure systems. Together, the awards advance UDC’s research enterprise while expanding hands-on research opportunities for students.
- Celebrating 175 years of impact: UDC is marking its 175th anniversary by celebrating a history that began with the founding of the Miner Normal School in 1851 and looking ahead to the university’s exciting next chapter. Anniversary activities have brought together students, alumni and community partners while generating new support for students, including $1.4 million raised for scholarships at UDC’s 175th Anniversary Gala.
“National rankings are one measure of our progress, but our focus remains on the success of our students and the quality of the education we provide,” said Chief Academic Officer April Massey. “Across our colleges and schools and on every campus, our faculty are creating rigorous, relevant learning experiences that prepare students to succeed in their careers, contribute to their communities and continue learning throughout their lives.”