Its
college tour time and parents and students are exploring all the options for
the next step in their lives. As they tour, they will begin to wonder, what are
the differences between a college and university? Many people think that the
term college means a private school and that a university is state funded.
Others believe that you receive a better education at a university as opposed
to a college. In actuality, the differences between a college vs. university
can be harder than you think to define.
Many
students ask if a university is better than a college. A college and university
generally are academic equals. Depending on the student's needs, one type of
institution may be a better choice. For example, if a student wants to attend a
school with a variety of programs and classes, then a university may be a
better choice. If a student values small class sizes and a closer relationship with professors, then a college might be the best option. If you are a student considering getting a bachelor's or graduate degree, your school's name is less important than whether or not the school is a good fit. Think about what you want your college experience to be like, and choose the college or university that meets your expectations.
A college is a
smaller institution that typically offers undergraduate degrees. Some colleges,
such as community colleges and junior colleges, may offer only two-year
degrees. Most four-year colleges offer bachelor’s degrees with some also
offering associate degrees. Colleges
generally do not have graduate programs, but there are exceptions.
Advantages
·
You
will likely get more personalized attention from professors and academic
advisors.
·
There
is often a greater focus on undergraduate teaching.
·
Colleges
often have more curriculum specialization for students with very specific
interests.
·
Most
colleges have a closer, more unified student community.
Disadvantages
·
There
are usually fewer resources and facilities for conducting research.
·
Faculties
at colleges are less likely to be leading researchers in their fields.
·
Colleges
don't offer direct access to more advanced degrees.
·
Most
colleges will have fewer overall program offerings.
.A
university is an institution that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Universities offer graduate programs leading to a master's degree or a Ph.D.
These institutions also may have a medical or law school for students wishing
to pursue professional degrees. Some universities offer special programs where
their students can earn both an undergraduate degree and a graduate degree in a
reduced amount of time. Universities will also offer a more diverse curriculum
and programs because they have a much larger number of enrolled students.
Advantages
·
Lots
of research opportunities and facilities are available to students.
·
There
is more access to advanced degrees and more interaction with graduate students.
·
Professors
are more likely to be highly reputable figures in their fields of research.
·
There
are more program offerings overall and a more diverse community of
students.
Disadvantages
·
Universities
may offer less personalized attention from professors and advisors.
·
Research
is usually prioritized over undergraduate teaching.
·
There
is less common ground between the experiences of different students.
·
It's
harder to be switch majors at a university because of the bureaucracy involved.
During the Middle English period, between 1250 Common Era (CE) and 1300 CE, the term university appeared and is older than the word college which did not appear for another 50 to 150 years. They both have Latin origins - universities (guild, corporation, society) and collegium (club, community, society).
Depending
on the student and their needs, one of the two is a better choice for them.
Many people have the idea that going to a university is better than going to a
college. Both are equal academically, but if the student prefers a school with
a wider choice of classes and programs, a university may be a better fit. If
the student prefers small sized classes and being able to interact more with
their professors, a college might be a better option.
Remember,
the name of the school is less important than whether the school is a good fit
for you personally. Decide what you want from your college experience and then
choose a college or university that fits that ideal.
“Encouragement of higher
education for our youth is critical to the success of our collective future.” (Charles B. Rangel) [i]
[i] Sources used:
·
“The 8 Big Differences Between
Colleges and Universities” by Samantha
Lindsay
·
“What is
the Difference Between a College and a University?” by Best Value
·
“What
Is the Difference Between College and University” by College Rank
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