Community college
Community colleges offer associate degrees which usually take two years to complete if you stay on track with classes. Some offer bachelor’s degrees, often working with another university in the state. There are also community colleges that offer industry-specific training such as power plant, health care or oil field- related jobs.
Tribal college
Tribal colleges are operated by American Indian tribes and include Native culture and traditions in teaching and training. They offer many of the same degrees as other colleges. Your high school grades or ACT® scores are not considered when reviewing your application.
Technical college
Technical colleges may also be called a trade school or vocational school. They offer one-year certificates or two-year associate degrees and are hands-on and job- focused. They place less importance on your high school grades than a four-year college or university.
This may be a good fit for you if you want a trade job such as an automotive technician, drafter, machine tool technician, welder, medical transcriptionist, dental hygienist or graphic designer. These are just a few examples of trade jobs you may enjoy.
If you are interested in a one-year certificate program, check with the financial aid office to see if the program is eligible for financial aid.
College and university
The difference between a college and a university is size. Universities have multiple schools within their systems; colleges usually have fewer options and often don’t offer master’s degrees.
Colleges offer bachelor’s degrees. Universities offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees.
