---
title: Types of colleges and how they differ
description: What are your options when considering college? Here are the basics on types of college programs, like four-year, two-year, and community colleges.
slug: types-of-colleges-and-how-they-differ
author: The Understood Team
reviewer: Jim Rein, MA
published: '2019-10-16T11:47:12.231Z'
thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/6nGUNcaOQ6t9VLz4SMNu6Z/3a488ca8a481583ced748c04810856ce/G871569792.jpg
source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/types-of-colleges-and-how-they-differ
lang: en
---

# Types of colleges and how they differ

You may have a lot of questions when you and your child are [considering college](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/college-prep-what-you-need-to-know). 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](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/tips-for-talking-to-your-child-about-college). Learn about [college programs for kids who learn and think differently](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/15-college-programs-for-kids-with-learning-and-thinking-differences) — along with [scholarship opportunities](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/financial-aid-and-scholarships-for-students-with-learning-and-thinking-differences).

---

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