Howard University Overview

Howard University is a four-year, full-time, selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Washington, DC. It has an enrollment of 8,902 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 35.25%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $45,837. Tuition is $28,916.00 without financial aid.

Howard University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Howard University, 90.92% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Howard University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1.

Howard University Website

Howard University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 35.25%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1181.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 24.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Howard University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $45,837.

The average tuition is:

• $42,609, when family income is less than $30,000

• $44,107, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $46,678, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $48,951, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $49,240, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 51.43% of students received a federal student loan and 41.75% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $28,916.00 without financial aid.

Howard University Net Price Calculator

Howard University Majors/Salaries

Howard University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Howard University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Architecture. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,971
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,927
• Journalism. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,467
• Radio, Television, and Digital Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• Computer Systems Analysis. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $82,440
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Doctoral Degree) – $100,038
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $52,524
• Chemical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $84,653
• Civil Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $50,856
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $80,041
• Mechanical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $52,107
• Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,035
• Law. (First Professional Degree) – $58,152
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,569
• Parks, Recreation, Leisure, and Fitness Studies, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,896
• Theological and Ministerial Studies. (Master’s Degree) – $50,856
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,771
• Psychology, General. (Doctoral Degree) – $59,124
• Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. (Doctoral Degree) – $61,516
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,518
• Social Work. (Master’s Degree) – $52,107
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $42,682
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,281
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,598
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $59,011
• Dentistry. (First Professional Degree) – $100,571
• Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences. (Graduate/Professional Certificate) – $139,816
• Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. (Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma) – $84,653
• Health and Medical Administrative Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,289
• Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. (Master’s Degree) – $70,456
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. (Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma) – $106,421
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $91,744
• Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $67,660
• Medicine. (First Professional Degree) – $56,888
• Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. (First Professional Degree) – $121,694
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. (Master’s Degree) – $76,460
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $69,547
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Master’s Degree) – $97,959
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $63,005
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $76,460
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $55,964
• Finance and Financial Management Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $59,485
• International Business. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,478
• Management Information Systems and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $70,456
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $48,667
• Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,260

Howard University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Howard University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 1.48%
• Asian: 4.25%
• Black: 66.02%
• Hispanic: 6.47%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.24%
• Non-resident alien: 3.24%
• Two or more races: 4.39%
• Unknown: 13.59%
• White: 0.33%

At Howard University, 2.55% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Howard University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Howard University?

Howard University is known for having a strong school spirit. Students pride themselves on being a part of the “Howard family” and participate in various traditions and activities to show their Bison pride. The annual homecoming week is a particularly exciting time for students, alumni, and the community to come together and show their support for the school. Additionally, the university’s athletics program also fosters school spirit, with the Bison football and basketball teams drawing enthusiastic crowds to games. Overall, Howard University has a vibrant and lively campus culture, with students who are proud to attend and support their school.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Howard University?

Howard University offers various extracurricular activities for its students, including: 1. Clubs and organizations: Howard has more than 200 student-run organizations, including academic, social, cultural, and professional groups. 2. Student government: The student government is responsible for representing the student body, organizing events, and advocating for student needs. 3. Athletics: Howard University has a vibrant athletic program that includes basketball, football, track and field, and other sports. 4. Performing arts: There are several opportunities for students interested in music, theater, and dance, including ensembles, productions, and performances. 5. Volunteer and community service: Howard encourages students to get involved in community service and provides opportunities to volunteer through various student organizations. 6. Research programs: Students can participate in research projects and programs through their academic departments or student organizations. Overall, Howard University offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, and students are encouraged to explore a variety of options to find their passion and build a strong community on campus.

How are the food choices at Howard University?

The food choices at Howard University are diverse and offer a wide variety of options for students. There are several dining halls and food courts located throughout the campus that cater to different dietary needs and preferences. The Blackburn Center food court offers a range of options, including Chick-Fil-A, Subway, and Starbucks. The Punch Out Café offers vegan and vegetarian meals, while the Fresh Food Company incorporates locally sourced ingredients into its dishes. In addition, there are several food trucks that visit the campus, offering even more variety. Overall, students at Howard University should have no problem finding delicious and healthy meal options on campus.

Is there Greek life at Howard University?

Yes, there is Greek life at Howard University. There are nine historically African American fraternities and sororities, commonly referred to as the “Divine Nine,” that were founded on Howard University’s campus or have a history of affiliation with the university. These organizations include Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.

What is Howard University known for?

Howard University is a historically black university located in Washington D.C. It is known for providing an excellent education for African American students and for being one of the top producers of African American professionals in fields such as law, medicine, and engineering. Howard University is also known for its strong programs in the areas of business, journalism, communications, and the arts, including a renowned School of Fine Arts. Additionally, its School of Medicine is well-regarded and is known for its commitment to serving underserved communities.

What are the most popular school clubs at Howard University?

At Howard University, some of the most popular student clubs include the Howard University Student Association (HUSA), the Howard University Bisonettes Dance Team, the Howard University Gospel Choir, the Howard University Thespian Society, the Howard University Debate Team, and the Howard University Student Ambassadors Program, among others. There are also a variety of academic and professional organizations representing different majors and fields of study for students to join. Additionally, Howard University has a vibrant Greek life community with several fraternities and sororities to choose from.

Is the campus at Howard University safe?

The campus at Howard University is generally safe, but like any urban campus, there may be incidents of crime. The university has a fully operational campus police department, which provides security for the students, faculty, and staff. It is recommended that students take precautions such as not walking alone on campus late at night, being aware of their surroundings, and reporting any suspicious behavior to campus police. Howard University also has various safety programs and resources available to students, such as safety escorts and emergency notification systems. Overall, the university takes safety seriously and is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure campus environment for everyone.