University of the District of Columbia

As the sole public university in the nation's capital, the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) stands as a beacon of educational opportunity, committed to empowering its students to "Aspire, Accomplish, Take on the World." This historically Black land-grant university offers a comprehensive and accessible pathway to success, from vital workforce and certificate programs to associate, baccalaureate, master's, professional, and doctoral degrees. For those seeking a vibrant urban campus experience with a deep-rooted commitment to community, UDC provides an unparalleled environment for learning and growth.

UDC's history is as rich and resilient as the city it serves, tracing its origins back to a revolutionary act of education in 1851. It began as the Normal School for Colored Girls, founded by the visionary Myrtilla Miner, making it one of the earliest institutions in the United States dedicated to educating Black women as teachers amidst considerable opposition. This foundational commitment to equity and access has shaped UDC's enduring mission. The university, in its modern form, was consolidated in 1977 through the merger of Federal City College, Washington Technical Institute, and District of Columbia Teachers College, creating the diverse institution it is today.

Students at UDC benefit from a robust academic structure, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and the respected David A. Clarke School of Law. The university also features specialized colleges like the College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences, reflecting its land-grant mission. With its main campus nestled in Washington D.C.'s Van Ness neighborhood and additional sites across the city, UDC offers a dynamic learning environment where students are prepared to tackle real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.