The Howard University Transportation Research Center (HUTRC) was established in the Civil Engineering Department to lead interdisciplinary urban transportation research in Washington, DC. The Center seeks the mutual interest of the University and its sponsors. Since 1998, HUTRC has embarked upon research, training and outreach in areas such as transportation policy, management, economics, law, as well as engineering.

Howard University works with a consortium of colleges and universities to supplement their engineering expertise, professional skills and research capabilities. The university also engages consultants with a history of transportation research specialties.