Howard University

Breadcrumb Abstract Shape
Breadcrumb Abstract Shape

Howard University

Overview & Academics

  • Howard University is a private, federally chartered historically Black research university located in Washington, D.C.
  • Founded in 1867, Howard offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through 13 schools and colleges.
  • Popular areas of study include the arts, sciences, business, communications, engineering, law, medicine, dentistry, and nursing.
  • Howard is classified as an R2: Doctoral University – High research activity.

Admissions

  • Admissions are considered selective, with holistic review processes evaluating grades, coursework, test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.
  • Both Common Application and the Howard Online Application are accepted.
  • Test-optional for many programs, but SAT or ACT scores can enhance applications.

Admission Stats (Recent Cycle)

  • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 32%
  • Average GPA (middle 50%): 3.5 – 4.0
  • SAT Middle 50%: 1130 – 1260
  • ACT Middle 50%: 22 – 27

Cost

  • Tuition & Fees (2023–24): Approximately $31,050 per year (undergraduate)
  • Room & Board: Around $15,150 per year
  • Financial aid is available via merit scholarships, need-based aid, federal and state programs, and work-study opportunities.

Student Population

  • Total enrollment: About 12,000 students
  • Undergraduate: ~8,000 students
  • Graduate & professional: ~4,000 students
  • Howard draws students from all 50 states and over 100 countries; predominantly Black/African American student body.

Rankings & Distinctions

  • Consistently ranked among the top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States
  • Top producer of African-American students pursuing doctoral degrees and a leading source of Black professionals in medicine, law, and STEM fields
  • Ranked among national universities for social mobility, academic excellence, and value

Campus & Culture

  • Urban campus spanning 256 acres in the heart of Washington, D.C. at 2400 Sixth St NW
  • Blend of historic and modern facilities, with investments in new buildings and campus renovations
  • Vibrant campus culture emphasizing diversity, leadership, service, and social justice

Athletics & Traditions

  • Competes in NCAA Division I (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference – MEAC)
  • Nickname: Bison
  • Signature events include Homecoming, Howard University Yardfest, and Greek life step shows
  • Popular sports: football, basketball, soccer, track & field, swimming & diving

Mission

  • Committed to excellence in truth and service, leadership in teaching, research, and public service, and addressing issues that impact the African Diaspora and global society
  • Focus on producing leaders for America and the global community

Leadership & Current Developments

  • Led by President Dr. Ben Vinson III
  • Recent major investments in infrastructure, research, and scholarships
  • Active role in advocacy, civic engagement, and social justice initiatives

Programs

  • More than 120 areas of study across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs
  • Colleges/Schools: Arts & Sciences, Business, Communications, Dentistry, Divinity, Education, Engineering & Architecture, Graduate School, Law, Medicine, Nursing & Allied Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Social Work
  • Notable strengths: STEM, social sciences, liberal arts, medicine, law, and communications

Campus Life

  • On-campus and off-campus housing options
  • Cultural centers, performance spaces, and dining facilities on campus
  • Events celebrating heritage, diversity, and social justice

Student Organizations

  • Over 200 student-run clubs and organizations
  • Includes academic honor societies, service organizations, professional associations, arts groups, student government (HUSA), and fraternities/sororities
  • Active Greek Life, including all nine National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations (Divine Nine)

Contact Information

  • Website: www.howard.edu
  • Address: 2400 Sixth St NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20059
  • Type: 4-year, Private not-for-profit
  • Awards Offered: Two but less than 4 years certificate, Bachelor’s degree, Postbaccalaureate certificate, Master’s degree, Post-master’s certificate, Doctor’s degree (research/scholarship and professional practice)