Definition Private colleges and universities are free of direct state or federal government control. Each independent institution is governed by a board of trustees made up of community and business leaders, alumni, faculty, students, and other private citizens. The board of an independent college is its legal owner and final authority. It sets the institution's mission, appoints and monitors the progress of the president or chancellor, guides strategic planning, and ensures strong management. The independence of private colleges and universities allows them to adapt quickly to ever-evolving student needs, technological advancements, and social trends.
Independence also gives each private institution the opportunity to develop a distinctive nature.
Collectively, they provide students with a full range of educational experiences to choose from. There are more than 1,600 independent colleges and universities in the United States. Half of the colleges and universities in the United States are private. 21 percent of all college students in the United States are enrolled at independent colleges and universities. Enrollments at independent institutions range from less than 100 to more than 30,000, with an average enrollment of 1,851 .