Howard University is proud to celebrate a major milestone: The graduate school has earned coveted places among the top graduate schools in the nation.  The U.S. News & World Report rankings are a national recognition that places Howard’s Graduate Schools firmly in the top tier of institutions preparing the next generation of educators, researchers, and policymakers. 

"This ranking reflects Howard’s growing influence in the field of education through its rigorous programs, faculty scholarship, and robust partnerships with schools and educational agencies," said Dr. Dana Williams graduate school Dean and professor of African American Literature.  "Rankings aren’t the ultimate measure of success, but they do offer a positive reminder of the ways others experience the strength of programs. When we see an increase, we see a reason to celebrate and be encouraged," she said. These collaborations expand the reach of the school’s mission, allowing students to engage in impactful, real-world learning that prepares them for leadership in diverse educational contexts. 

Howard University was consistently the best HBCU in an array of categories. Howard University ranked as the #1 HBCU in Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property Law, Healthcare Law Trial Advocacy Law, Economics, English, Fine Arts, History, Political Science and Speech Pathology.

Moreover Howard outpaced schools in the greater DC, Maryland and Virginia metropolitan area when it comes to Most Graduates Practicing in Primary Care. 

Howard University placed #12 in Social Work, the highest ranking among colleges and universities in the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia area as well as among other HBCUs. Howard's graduate social work program is tied with Case Western University, New York University, Ohio State University, Rutgers, and other notable programs. 

Howard University School of Law placed #13 in Law Schools with the Most Graduates at Big Law Firms, surpassing other institutions with stellar reputations including Stanford University, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), New York University (NYU) and George Washington University. The ranking, which uses career outcome calculations, evaluates "law schools whose graduates were most likely to obtain full-time, long-term jobs at law firms with greater than 500 attorneys." Howard University School of Law is also the top HBCU law school on the Best Law Schools listing.

Howard University School of Education moved up more than 10 points from last year placing #54 in Best Education Schools. The program has steadily grown over the past 5 years.

“This rise in the national rankings is a direct result of the exceptional quality of our faculty,” said Dr. Dawn Williams, dean of the School of Education. “Our faculty are nationally recognized experts in their fields, and they seamlessly integrate cutting-edge research and innovative practices with a strong commitment to teaching excellence. This unique combination creates an enriching learning environment, where our students gain both top-tier academic training and invaluable professional mentorship.” 

Looking to the future, Williams envisions a bold trajectory for Howard’s graduates. “In 25 years, I hope our graduates will have become transformative leaders in the field of education, driving meaningful change in schools, communities, and education systems around the world,” she said. “They will have utilized the knowledge, skills, and mentorship they gained here to foster inclusive, innovative, and equitable learning environments.” 

This national ranking is not just a marker of success — it is a reflection of the University's deep and lasting commitment to social justice, equity, and academic excellence. As Howard continues to shape the future of HBCUs, the impact of its graduates and faculty will undoubtedly be felt across the globe.