Types of Colleges

Colleges offer various programs to serve students with different needs and goals. Learning about the types of colleges will help you find the best choices for you.

For-Profit vs. Nonprofit Colleges

The Types of Colleges: The Basics

Is a college the same thing as a university? Why are some colleges called public and others private? Knowing the basics about different types of colleges is crucial if you want to make the right decision.

Career Colleges

Accredited institutions like these prepare students for specific skill-based careers, and are known as career colleges. Career college programs generally range from two to four years, depending on the extent of training required.

Campus Setting: Rural, Suburban, Urban

Rural, suburban, and urban campuses have different advantages. The key is to find the setting that will allow you to make the most of your college experience.

Sizing Up Colleges: Big vs. Small

As you begin your college search, one of the first decisions you must make─and one that helps narrow your listis the size of college you prefer.

Community College: FAQ

Community college is the most common type of two-year college. These colleges offer many types of educational programs, including those that lead to associate degrees and certificates.

Tips on Transferring from a 2-Year to a 4-Year College

Many students use a community college or another two-year college as a stepping stone to a four-year institution and a bachelor's degree. If you want to take this path, here's what you should do:

College Search Step-by-Step

Although there's no magic formula for choosing a college, you can start by asking yourself some questions that help most students find the right fit.

Special College Programs

Colleges offer flexible programs that allow you to tailor your education to fit your needs.

National and Regional Accreditations for Colleges

Did you know U.S. college accreditation can change by region? Learn about the range of academic offerings in the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, and West.

Find Your Fit

There’s no such thing as the “perfect college.” The college search is about exploring who you are and what you want and then finding colleges where you can meet your goals.

After You’ve Applied

Once the big effort of applying to college is behind you, you can begin to think about the next steps in your college-bound journey like college choices, tuition fees, and roommate selection.