Types of colleges and how they differ

You may have a lot of questions when you and your child are considering college. Is a four-year degree the best choice? What about a community college or trade college? Learn about the three major options for getting a degree after high school.

Trade and vocational colleges

• Typically two years or less
• Students may graduate with an associate’s degree
• Only offers career-specific courses and degrees, like automotive technology
• Students only have to study subjects that apply to their field of interest

Junior and community colleges

• Offer courses in liberal arts subjects as well as career-specific training, like hotel management or dental hygiene
• Provide courses to help improve academic skills
• Have open admission
• Are state-funded, so tuition tends to be lower
• Give two-year degrees, but credits can be transferred to four-year colleges
• Most students live off campus

Four-year colleges

• Includes liberal arts colleges and undergraduate universities
• Can be private or state-funded
• Schools vary in size, admissions criteria, programs, and cost
• Students can graduate with a bachelor’s degree
• Students may live on or off campus

Get tips on how to talk to your child realistically about college. Learn about college programs for kids who learn and think differently — along with scholarship opportunities.