Head-to-head · 2026
Howard University vs The Catholic University of America
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for Howard University, 4 for The Catholic University of America — The Catholic University of America has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Howard University | The Catholic University of America |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 3.12 | 6.19 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $50,539 | $29,561 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $63,066 | $73,250 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 41.3% ✓ | 82.8% |
| Graduation rate | 70% | 79.5% ✓ |
| Median debt | $24,500 ✓ | $26,000 |
| Enrollment | 10,108 | 3,154 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1213 | — |
| Wins | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Howard University costs $20,978 more per year than The Catholic University of America ($50,539 vs $29,561). The Catholic University of America graduates report $10,184 higher median earnings after ten years ($73,250 vs $63,066). On EduGradify's model that puts The Catholic University of America ahead on projected ROI (6.19 vs 3.12, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (The Catholic University of America) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Howard University is selective at 41.3% acceptance versus 82.8% (accessible) at The Catholic University of America.
Frequently asked
Howard University vs The Catholic University of America, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Howard University or The Catholic University of America the better value?
The Catholic University of America has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.19 vs 3.12), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
The Catholic University of America is cheaper — average net price $29,561 per year vs $50,539 at Howard University. The annual difference of $20,978 adds up to about $83,912 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
The Catholic University of America reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $73,250 vs $63,066 at Howard University. The annual gap in the federal data is $10,184.
Which school is harder to get into?
Howard University is more selective at 41.3% acceptance vs 82.8% at The Catholic University of America.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Howard University reports a D value grade; The Catholic University of America reports C.