Types of Colleges
Understanding the Different Types of Colleges can help you find the options that are best for your career choice.
The type of college and number of years you need to attend depends on the career you are planning to pursue, the credentials or degree needed for that career, and whether you attend college full-time or part-time.
Types of Degrees
Different careers have specific certificate or degree requirements. The information below describes the typical levels of certificates and degrees.
Certificate
A certificate prepares you for entry-level jobs in a professional environment. Certificates provide training and/or education beyond high school to prepare for a specific occupation. Completion time depends upon the requirements of the program.
Associate Degree
An associate degree provides education and training for a specific career. Most courses taken for an associate degree can be transferred to a four-year university if you plan ahead with the help of your college counselor. Completion time is usually two to four years after receiving a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree is composed of general and specific courses to prepare you for a career. In these programs, you will take courses that are more focused on a specific career after a year or so of general classes.