Learning the differences can help you judge which type of institition best fits your child's needs and aspirations. Students who wish to pursue a general academic program usually choose a four-year college or university. Such a program lays the foundation for more advanced studies and professional work. Four-year colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in most areas of arts and sciences. These colleges award bachelor's degrees.
Universities award professional, graduate and bachelor's degrees.
There are colleges that offer programs that are less than four years in length. Most of these schools offer education and training programs that are completed in two years or less. The programs often lead to a license, a certificate, an associate of arts degree, an associate of science degree, or an associate of applied science degree. Their academic programs are often comparable to the first two years of a general academic program offered by a four-year college or university. Now that you understand the institutional options that are available, here are some websites you can use to identify colleges and programs that match your child's interest and preferences.