Different Type of Colleges
College Admissions Strengths
Assessment Form
Four-year colleges
Four-year colleges award bachelor’s degrees upon completion.
Some four-year schools are liberal arts colleges, which tend to
focus on undergraduate education, while others are universities
, which offer graduate, doctoral and professional degrees in
addition to undergraduate degrees. Certain four-year colleges
focus on specialized studies, for example in art, music,
agriculture, or religion. A bachelor’s degree is necessary
if you are considering pursuing an advanced degree such
as a Master’s degree, Ph.D., or a professional degree such
as a J.D. (for lawyers) or an M.D. (for doctors).
Four-year colleges may be public or private. Certain colleges may be single-sex, have a religious affiliation, or are considered a historically black college or Hispanic serving institution. The type of school you choose to attend depends on your individual preferences and goals.
Keep in mind that it may take you more than four years to graduate from a “four-year” college depending on your program and availability of classes.
Community/Junior colleges
Community and junior colleges offer associate’s degrees or certificates in two years and are often much more affordable than four-year schools. Many community colleges offer programs that teach you a specific skill to prepare you for a job immediately upon graduation. Other programs prepare graduates to transfer to a four-year college to pursue a bachelor’s degree. If you are undecided on your major or want to save some money, you may want to consider pursuing your first two years at a junior/community college.
Trade school/Technical colleges
Entering a program at a trade school could lead to a certificate, license, or degree, depending upon the school and program. Technical colleges and trade schools teach skills that prepare you for a specific career, such as computer technology, culinary studies, cosmetology, automotive repair, medical assistance, paralegal studies, etc. The length of time it will take you to complete your program depends on what you study but can range from less than one year to several years.
Private vs. Public
Public colleges, which receive funds from the state government, tend to have a lower sticker price, especially for in-state residents. However, private colleges often offer more personalized attention and may have more funds available for financial aid. You shouldn’t rule out a school just because it is private or public. Instead, pay attention to whether or not it is the right fit for you and it has the potential to meet your personal and financial needs.
College Application Requirements
What do colleges want?
Colleges come in all shapes and sizes. We are here to assist you to decide which option is
right for you. Below is a list of typical college application requirements.
A challenging high school curriculum
Challenge yourself throughout your high school career. Enroll in
Advanced Placement classes or honors sections if available at your school.
Good grades
Work hard to keep your grades up. College admission officers will notice. Feel like your grades aren’t up to snuff? Don’t get discouraged. There are colleges for just about every type of student. You just need to find the right one for you.
SAT & ACT scores
Research average scores at colleges to find out where yours fit in. Your test scores should be consistent with your grades. Certain community colleges or technical schools may not require students to take the SAT or ACT. Call the admission office to find out.
Activities, leadership, and initiative
A long-term commitment to activities that demonstrate initiative and leadership are important to many colleges.
Community service
A steady commitment to a public service organization is more valuable than a short-time volunteer position.
Part-time jobs or internships
Job experience and/or internships help demonstrate your work ethic and maturity.
Essays
Your college essay demonstrates your writing ability and tells the reader something about you that may not be evident on your admission application.
Letters of recommendation
Request letters of recommendation from teachers who know you and the quality of your work. Limit recommendations from other adults to school administrators, supervisors, or coaches.
Special activities
Honors, awards, athletics, or other activities that demonstrate your individuality.