Head-to-head · 2026
Howard University vs Trinity Washington University
Compare average net price ($50,539 at Howard University; $9,302 at Trinity Washington University), ROI score (3.12 vs 14.46), ten-year median earnings ($63,066 vs $53,804), and admissions selectivity (41.3% acceptance at Howard University; 99.5% at Trinity Washington University) using federal College Scorecard data. Howard University has a 4-2 metric-level edge. Trinity Washington University leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Howard University | Trinity Washington University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 3.12 | 14.46 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $50,539 | $9,302 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $63,066 ✓ | $53,804 |
| Acceptance rate | 41.3% ✓ | 99.5% |
| Graduation rate | 70% ✓ | 49.3% |
| Median debt | $24,500 ✓ | $28,250 |
| Enrollment | 10,108 | 1,414 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1213 | — |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Howard University costs $41,237 more per year than Trinity Washington University ($50,539 vs $9,302). Howard University graduates report $9,262 higher median earnings after ten years ($63,066 vs $53,804). On EduGradify's model that puts Trinity Washington University ahead on projected ROI (14.46 vs 3.12, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Trinity Washington University) 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 99.5% (accessible) at Trinity Washington University.
Frequently asked
Howard University vs Trinity Washington University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Howard University or Trinity Washington University the better value?
Trinity Washington University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (14.46 vs 3.12), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Trinity Washington University is cheaper — average net price $9,302 per year vs $50,539 at Howard University. The annual difference of $41,237 adds up to about $164,948 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Howard University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $63,066 vs $53,804 at Trinity Washington University. The annual gap in the federal data is $9,262.
Which school is harder to get into?
Howard University is more selective at 41.3% acceptance vs 99.5% at Trinity Washington University.
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; Trinity Washington University reports A.