Head-to-head · 2026
The Catholic University of America vs University of the District of Columbia
Compare average net price ($29,561 at The Catholic University of America; $10,648 at University of the District of Columbia), ROI score (6.19 vs 10.39), ten-year median earnings ($73,250 vs $44,236), and admissions context (82.8% at The Catholic University of America; Open / not reported at University of the District of Columbia) using federal College Scorecard data. University of the District of Columbia has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. University of the District of Columbia 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 | The Catholic University of America | University of the District of Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.19 | 10.39 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $29,561 | $10,648 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $73,250 ✓ | $44,236 |
| Acceptance rate | 82.8% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 79.5% ✓ | 33.2% |
| Median debt | $26,000 | $24,872 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 3,154 | 3,351 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
The Catholic University of America costs $18,913 more per year than University of the District of Columbia ($29,561 vs $10,648). The Catholic University of America graduates report $29,014 higher median earnings after ten years ($73,250 vs $44,236). On EduGradify's model that puts University of the District of Columbia ahead on projected ROI (10.39 vs 6.19, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of the District of Columbia) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, The Catholic University of America reports 82.8% acceptance; University of the District of Columbia does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
The Catholic University of America vs University of the District of Columbia, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is The Catholic University of America or University of the District of Columbia the better value?
University of the District of Columbia has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.39 vs 6.19), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of the District of Columbia is cheaper — average net price $10,648 per year vs $29,561 at The Catholic University of America. The annual difference of $18,913 adds up to about $75,652 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
The Catholic University of America reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $73,250 vs $44,236 at University of the District of Columbia. The annual gap in the federal data is $29,014.
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. The Catholic University of America reports a C value grade; University of the District of Columbia reports B.