University versus College: Which is Right for You?

There used to be a time when college diplomas and certifications weren’t regarded with the same fervor as University degrees. If someone had the grades and the financial backing to attend a university the choice was rather obvious: university over college. Is it the same today? Well, no, not exactly, and there are many reasons for that.

1. College’s have gained more credibility ¬– Whereas they were once regarded as being academically inferior to universities or advanced technical schools, colleges have rapidly expanded their programs and their academic capabilities to better prepare their students for future employment and business scenarios.

Just about every university recognizes a college diploma (assuming the college is a legitimate and established one) and will grant credit based on the diploma. Because of this many students are attending college first and university second.

2. Colleges are more hands on and technical – Whereas university programs tend to focus on abstract thinking, concepts, and more general knowledge, most college programs tend to get right down to the nitty gritty. Many students will graduate with a general degree (ie- a Bachelors of Arts or Science), whereas a college student will graduate with a very specific certification (ie- International Marketing and Advertising orr Networking Systems Analysis).

Because of the focus of college programs many employers actually prefer applicants with relevant college certifications as they tend to have more experience than university graduates.

3. College’s and universities work together ¬– It is not uncommon to find universities and college’s offering linked or extension programs. It is quite common for college students to take two years at the college and then two years at the partner university. This offers students a breath of refreshment when they change schools (a change of scenery is always nice) as well as experience with both environments.

Which is Right for You?

Still confused about which is right for you? You can narrow your selection down a bit by determining where you fit:

• Universities tend to require higher entrance grades ¬– The prerequisites for a program at a university may be upwards of 85%, where that same program would be 75% at a college.

• Universities tend to be more expensive – While textbooks and living expenses are nearly identical, tuition is often more expensive than a comparable college offering an identical or similar program.

• Universities are more formal ¬– While there is a certain level of etiquette that should be followed at any education institution, universities tend to be more formal in that the classes are set up more traditionally (as lectures) and tend to have more students (sometimes in the hundreds) per class.

Colleges usually offer smaller class sizes, meaning that the environment is more personal. Many students find that type of environment easier to adapt to and flourish in.

Still unsure of which one is right for you? At the end of the day the decision should be the one that will make you the happiest. For the next few years of your life you will be attending the institution that you choose- make sure it’s one that you will be able to attend without harboring a negative attitude or preconceived notion. If you enjoy where you are you will do much better than if you didn’t.