The 256 - acre ( 1.04 km ; 0.400 sq mi ) campus often referred to as `` The Mecca '' is located in northwest Washington . Major improvements , additions , and changes occurred at the school in the aftermath of World War I. New buildings were built under the direction of architect Albert Cassell . Howard 's buildings and plant have a value of $567.6 million .

Question: what part of dc is howard university in
Answer: northwest