Best BSW Colleges in District of Columbia 2026

3 ranked BSW programs in District of Columbia

How we rank these colleges → | All BSW programs in District of Columbia →

All 3 Ranked Colleges in District of Columbia

1
Gallaudet University

Washington, DC · Private · 1,335 students

National #152
63.1 / 100
70.3%
Completion Rate
71.0%
Retention Rate
$18,292
In-State Tuition (excl. fees)

Gallaudet University sits at #152 in our 2026 BSW rankings. The program's numbers are mixed, but your experience will depend on many factors beyond what rankings capture.

With a retention rate of 71.0%, Gallaudet University clearly invests in keeping students on track toward their degree. Tuition runs $18,292 per year, which is higher than many comparable programs. Financial aid can help offset the cost. With 15 social work graduates, this is a program with a track record of getting students across the finish line.

2
The Catholic University of America

Washington, DC · Private · 5,243 students

National #298
48.7 / 100
55.4%
Completion Rate
87.0%
Retention Rate
$54,630
In-State Tuition (excl. fees)

Coming in at #298, The Catholic University of America is a BSW program with room to grow. That said, rankings don't tell the whole story — factors like location, campus culture, and fieldwork opportunities matter too.

A 87.0% retention rate shows that students at The Catholic University of America are finding the support they need to persist. In-state tuition of $54,630 per year puts this on the pricier side, so you'll want to factor in financial aid availability. With 5 recent completions, this is a smaller program. That often translates to closer faculty relationships.

3
University of the District of Columbia

Washington, DC · Public · 4,202 students

National #524
26.7 / 100
31.0%
Completion Rate
68.0%
Retention Rate
$5,292
In-State Tuition (excl. fees)

University of the District of Columbia sits at #524 in our 2026 BSW rankings. The program's numbers are mixed, but your experience will depend on many factors beyond what rankings capture.

The school retains 68.0% of its first-year students — a solid number that suggests most students are getting what they need here. In-state tuition sits at $5,292 per year, keeping costs manageable for most students. University of the District of Columbia produced 16 BSW completions recently, showing the program has meaningful throughput.

Where a BSW Leads

A Bachelor of Social Work opens into six main practice areas, and pay differs between them by more than most prospective students expect. Each guide below carries the full BLS percentile spread, pay by work setting, and pay by state. Figures are May 2025 medians.

Not sure which fits? Start with the career and salary overview or the is social work for me self-assessment.