Understanding the Differences between a Community College and a University

Shannon Kietzman, Contributing Writer

Updated: 1/7/2009

So, you are thinking about heading back to school and pursuing a higher level of education. In that case, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed by all of the options you have available to you. After all, as an increasing number of employers look for people with a college education has grown, so has the need grown for more colleges and universities. In addition, as more adults decide to head back to school, so has the need for a greater diversity in degree options and educational programs. As such, one of the first decisions you will need to make is whether you want to attend a community college or a university. Of course, in order to make that decision, you first need to gain a better understanding of the differences between the two..

Taking a Closer Look at Community Colleges

A community college, which is also sometimes referred to as a junior college or a city college, is a higher learning institution that generally provides lower level degree programs. This is not to say that a degree earned at a community college is less valuable than one you would earn at a university. Rather, you are limited in how far you can pursue your education when attending a community college. Most community colleges only allow students to pursue an associate’s degree, which means they then have to move on to another school if they wish to earn a bachelor’s degree or higher.

One of the advantages of attending a community college is the fact that they are generally less expensive than universities. It is also possible for a student to attend a community college without needing to relocate and pay the extra expenses associated with such a move. Since community colleges strive to meet the needs of local students and the community in which they are located, they generally also have connections with local businesses. This can help the students receive specialized training that will help them better meet the needs of the community.

Taking a Closer Look at Universities

A university is different from a community college in that it offers degree programs leading to bachelor’s degrees as well as master’s degrees and possibly even doctoral degrees. Universities are also more involved with research and have a more global approach to education rather than focusing more on local needs.

Universities may also focus more on holistic learning rather than on teaching students a specific trade or skill. Therefore, most degree programs will require taking coursework in a variety of different areas of study. A community college, on the other hand, may focus primarily on the subject area or career path you wish to pursue. As a result, completing a degree with a university takes longer than completing a program through a community college.

Deciding which type of school is right for you is a matter of personal decision as well as career goals. For some careers, acquiring an associate’s degree from a community college is not possible. With other professions, however, a community college may offer the simplest method for earning the degree or certification you need to take your career further.

Click Here to See All Online Schools