Students collaborating on projects at the University of the District of Columbia
Washington, D.C., July 24, 2025
The University of the District of Columbia is launching a strategic plan to boost enrollment and enhance student success. With a goal to raise graduation rates significantly by 2029 and establish a new Student Success Center, UDC is committed to providing resources and support for students. Backed by substantial government funding, the plan also aims to create housing opportunities and partnerships with local employers, ensuring that graduates are equipped for the workforce.
Washington, D.C., the nation’s bustling capital, is buzzing with excitement as the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) rolls out a bold new strategic plan aimed at not just boosting enrollment, but also enhancing the success of its students! As the only public institution of higher education in D.C. and a historically black university (HBCU), UDC is stepping up its game to create an inspiring educational environment.
Establishing its roots back in 1851, UDC was born from the merger of multiple educational institutions, carrying a proud history into the present. With three vibrant campuses—Georgia/Harvard Street, Mount Vernon Square, and Van Ness—UDC provides a rich tapestry of academic opportunities across its college programs. These programs cover key areas like Business and Public Management, Education and Human Ecology, and Life Sciences, among others.
Excitingly, UDC has seen a noteworthy enrollment spike! In just one year, the number of students climbed to 4,202 in 2024, marking a significant 9% growth from the previous year. The university has set its sights on ambitious goals, aiming to boost its graduation rate from 40% to 65% by 2029 and doubling the number of degrees awarded annually to 1,500.
Under the new leadership of President Maurice Edington, who stepped in during August 2023, UDC has launched an exhilarating strategic plan entitled “Delivering on the Promise.” This plan is all about focusing on key areas like student success, aligning with the workforce, and serving the community.
The D.C. government is backing these initiatives with a generous pledge of $102 million in subsidies. This financial support is set to help UDC push forward and realize its ambitious plans.
One of the highlights of the strategic plan is the creation of a dedicated Student Success Center. This center will bring together various resources and services to empower students in their academic endeavors. Additionally, UDC is looking to hire 10 new student advisers to strengthen guidance and support, ensuring that students receive the assistance they need on their educational journey.
Currently lacking dedicated residence halls, UDC plans to expand housing opportunities on campus—an essential factor for both student retention and success. The goal is to foster a supportive residential experience that will help students thrive academically.
With an eye on the future job market, UDC is also working on developing partnerships with local employers. This engagement will help tailor academic offerings to match job needs, ensuring that students graduate with skills highly sought after in their fields.
Moreover, predictive analytics will be utilized to identify and support at-risk students early in their academic journeys, creating a more robust safety net for those who may need extra assistance.
Through improved communication efforts and outreach initiatives, UDC is determined to bolster its reputation and engage effectively with the community and prospective students. As the university aims to achieve Research 2 status, signifying high levels of research activity, this will not only enhance its educational standing but also attract a diverse range of students interested in urban education opportunities.
President Edington’s experience at Florida A&M University sets a solid foundation for these growth efforts. Looking ahead, the university is considering expanding dual enrollment and early college programs with D.C. public schools, fueling the academic ambitions of younger students.
The University of the District of Columbia is on an exciting path of transformation! With its new strategic plan, UDC is geared up to enhance student success, boost enrollment, and solidify its legacy as a key player in higher education.
The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is the only public institution of higher education in Washington D.C. and is a historically black university (HBCU), with a rich history dating back to 1851.
The strategic plan aims to boost UDC’s graduation rate from 40% to 65% by 2029, double the number of degrees awarded annually to 1,500, and focus on student success, workforce alignment, and community service.
The D.C. government has pledged $102 million in subsidies to support UDC’s initiatives as part of their strategic plan goals.
Students can expect the establishment of a new Student Success Center, additional student advisers, expanded housing opportunities, and partnerships with local employers to help align academic programs with job market needs.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Growth | UDC saw an increase to 4,202 students in 2024, representing a 9% growth. |
| Graduation Rate Target | Aim to raise graduation rates from 40% to 65% by 2029. |
| Degrees Awarded | Planning to double the annual degrees awarded to 1,500. |
| Government Support | D.C. government pledged $102 million in subsidies. |
| Student Success Center | A dedicated center for combining student services and support. |
| Housing Expansion | Initiatives to develop more residential options for students. |
| Predictive Analytics | Using data to identify and support at-risk students early on. |
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