Washington, D.C. may be best known as the nation’s capital, but it also offers a strong foundation for engineering education. The city’s proximity to federal agencies, research institutions, and international organizations makes it a strategic hub for students pursuing careers in public infrastructure, cybersecurity, biomedical innovation, and more.
Engineering students in Washington, D.C. benefit from an environment rich in policy, innovation, and global connectivity. The city’s unique mix of government, academia, and industry provides a gateway to a wide variety of types of engineering jobs, particularly in high-demand sectors.
Highlights include:
Washington, D.C. is home to a number of universities offering robust engineering programs, many of which are closely tied to government research and innovation. The schools listed below represent some of the top options in the city. A full list of ABET-accredited programs is included later in this profile.
The School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) at The George Washington University offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs through six academic departments:
SEAS emphasizes both research and experiential learning, with student involvement in lab work, campus-wide research showcases like InnovationFest, and industry-related events. The school fosters a strong community for underrepresented groups, notably exceeding national averages for women in engineering at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
The George Washington University is a private institution located in Washington, D.C. Its urban setting places it at the intersection of academia, government, and industry, providing unique opportunities for research, policy engagement, and professional development.
The School of Engineering offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs through departments that include:
Students benefit from opportunities such as an accelerated master’s program, global partnerships, and involvement in faculty-led research. The school emphasizes ethical responsibility and service, integrating advanced research with real-world problem solving. Students also engage in activities like service projects, professional development workshops, and senior design competitions.
The Catholic University of America is a private, research-oriented institution located in Washington, D.C. It combines a strong liberal arts foundation with specialized professional programs and promotes a values-based approach to higher education.
Howard University’s College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) comprises five departments:
The college offers ABET-accredited Bachelor of Science programs, a NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture, and graduate degrees including the Master of Science, Master of Engineering, and Ph.D. in various engineering disciplines. A certificate in Cybersecurity is also available.
The CEA emphasizes both technical proficiency and societal impact, preparing students to address engineering and architectural problems within global, economic, environmental, and social contexts. According to the American Society for Engineering Education, Howard ranks among the top 20 universities for the percentage of engineering bachelor’s degrees awarded to women and underrepresented minorities.
Howard University is a private, federally chartered historically Black research university located in Washington, D.C. It is recognized nationally for its commitment to education access and leadership in producing African American professionals across many disciplines.
Engineering students in the District of Columbia can access a range of financial aid opportunities, including city-specific scholarships, federal programs, and institutional awards. These resources help make high-quality engineering education more affordable and accessible.
Key programs and resources include:
Students should also complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal and institutional aid programs.
Professional licensure is essential for engineers in roles involving public safety, project oversight, or government contracts. Washington, D.C. also offers valuable resources for students and professionals pursuing licensure and professional development in engineering.
Key organizations and resources include:
These resources are critical for academic planning, career preparation, and licensure compliance in the D.C. engineering landscape.
Can I earn an engineering degree online in Washington, D.C.?
Yes. While many D.C. universities offer in-person programs, students can also pursue an online engineering bachelor's degree or an online engineering master's degree through accredited national programs.
What engineering fields are most prominent in D.C.?
D.C. has strong demand in civil engineering, cybersecurity, biomedical engineering, and systems engineering—particularly in sectors supporting government and healthcare.
Is a PE license required to work as an engineer in D.C.?
For public-facing projects or roles requiring legal oversight, a PE license is essential. The D.C. Board of Professional Engineering administers licensure.
Do D.C. schools offer co-op or internship opportunities?
Yes. Engineering students at schools like GWU and Howard benefit from proximity to federal agencies, research labs, and policy institutes offering hands-on experience.
Enrolling in an ABET-accredited engineering school is an important step for students aiming to meet licensure requirements and industry expectations. These programs adhere to rigorous standards and are recognized nationally for preparing graduates for professional success.
In Washington, D.C., ABET-accredited institutions offer degree programs across a range of disciplines, from biomedical to civil and electrical engineering—often with connections to federal research agencies and public sector projects.
| American University | - Data Science |
| Howard University | - Computer Science
- Chemical Engineering - Civil Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Computer Engineering |
| The Catholic University of America | - Computer Science
- Biomedical Engineering - Civil Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering |
| The George Washington University | - Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - Systems Engineering |
| University of the District of Columbia | - Computer Science
- Civil Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Biomedical Engineering |
Note: The list of ABET-accredited engineering programs in Washington, D.C. was compiled in 2025. Because program offerings and accreditation statuses may change, readers are encouraged to consult the ABET official website and the individual university websites for the most current information. Additional resources mentioned earlier—such as the D.C. Board of Professional Engineering and local universities—can provide further guidance for students planning their academic and professional paths.
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