Best Online Colleges in Washington, D.C.

Updated on June 28, 2023

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In 2019, Washington, D.C. had a 49.7% college attainment rate, surpassing the national average of 36%. The median household in Washington, D.C. earned $101,649 per year, well above the national median household income of $68,703. With an educated population and ample career opportunities, it's no surprise that the nation's capital houses many accredited colleges and universities.

Washington, D.C. is the central location of the United States federal government and hosts 176 foreign embassies, the World Bank headquarters, and numerous private companies. Attending a District of Columbia-based college can be desirable, especially for students looking to pursue politics, law, or international relations.

Many accredited institutions in Washington, D.C. offer online programs, allowing students greater geographic flexibility. Explore this list to compare the best online colleges in Washington, D.C.

What Are the Best Online Colleges in Washington, D.C.? Here Are Our Top 2:

Ranking compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

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#1	George Washington University Washington, DC
#2	Gallaudet University Washington, DC

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Best Accredited Online Colleges in Washington, D.C.

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Best Online Colleges in Washington, D.C.

George Washington University

Location
Washington, DC

Graduation Rate
82%

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Earning a place among the best online colleges in Washington, D.C., GW offers more than 70 online programs, including an RN-to-BSN degree, a master's degree in public health, and a doctoral degree in engineering. GW's online programs deliver coursework both synchronously and asynchronously, and courses last 6-14 weeks.

GW offers part-time and full-time enrollment, and programs typically start in the fall. Admission requirements vary, but prospective undergraduate students typically need a high school diploma, whereas graduate applicants may need a minimum 3.0 GPA and GMAT or GRE scores. GW offers the same tuition rates for state residents and nonresidents.

GW is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Gallaudet University

Location
Washington, DC

Graduation Rate
47%

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Gallaudet University offers five online and hybrid programs, although two programs did not accept new applications as of June 2021. The university offers bachelor's completion programs in deaf studies and psychology and master's degrees in counseling and education. Some online classes run through accelerated and asynchronous eight-week sessions, whereas others run synchronously.

Prospective undergraduates need a high school diploma, while prospective graduate students usually need a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and satisfactory scores on the GMAT or GRE. Most online students pay the same tuition rates, though learners from developing countries may receive discounts.

Gallaudet University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).