28 answers
malu
Student
Anoka, Minnesota
2
Questions
Asked
1750 views
How do I know if a community college or University is right for me?
I don't know where I want to go now, so many people have different opinions and they're helpful, but, I am just getting more confused, can someone give me some tips on finding what is right for me? #college #undecided #career
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28 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1151
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Malu if you are wondering whether to attend a community college or a university, you should have a solid understanding of the major differences between the two.
Turns out, there are plenty of community college benefits, and attending one can be an advantage for you before they move on to a four-year university. At the very least, you can complete your first two years of your college education for a fraction of the cost.
4 ADVANTAGES TO CHOOSING A COMMUNITY COLLEGE OVER A UNIVERSITY
When high school seniors are deciding how to pursue higher education, they may not initially think of community colleges. But these schools shouldn't be overlooked. Community college is a great fit for many students, and often better than going to a four-year college, It can help students develop necessary academic skills, mature emotionally, and often lead to a more fulfilling, better-paying careers.
1.) COST – It goes without saying that obtaining an education at community colleges is typically far less expensive than a comparable education at a four-year college or university. In fact, many university students graduate having accumulated staggering levels of debt. So if you don’t want to mortgage your future to receive a good education, attending a community college might just end up being your best option. Because of the relatively low cost of attending community college, higher education is now available to individuals who could otherwise not afford the cost of attending a traditional four-year college or university. With the soaring costs of tuition, books and living in general, and a tighter job market a larger number of career-minded students and aspiring professionals are opting to earn their degree at a community college.
2.) ADMISSION – Community colleges typically have much less strict admission requirements than universities. In fact, many have open admission policies, meaning any person who graduates high school and applies gets accepted. However, certain community college programs may have stricter admission requirements, such as those in nursing or engineering technology. Universities tend to be much pickier when it comes to admissions, which means you better be ready to do more than just submit an application.
3.) CLASS SIZES – Also something to consider when deciding on a community college or a university. Universities tend to have much larger class sizes due to the amount of students that attend the school, and this can mean less one-on-one attention from teachers for you. Since community colleges usually have a much lower overall student population, class sizes are also much smaller. The average class size at community colleges ranges from 25-35, while classes at universities can have 150-300 students. If you enjoy one-on-one teacher attention, this can have a huge impact on your school decision.
4.) FLEXIBILITY – Due to financial constraints and a tightening job market, many students are finding the need to work while attending college. Hands down, community colleges are the best option for students who plan on working more than part-time while earning their degree. Community colleges typically offer a much larger selection of night courses than four-year colleges and more schedule options. In addition, class attendance is often not required as it is at many four-year institutions.
Ultimately, if you maximize your experiences who know what you may get out of community college vs a university. The first step is being aware of what you want out of your education and then, being conscious of what your institution has to offer Malu.
Hope this was Helpful
Turns out, there are plenty of community college benefits, and attending one can be an advantage for you before they move on to a four-year university. At the very least, you can complete your first two years of your college education for a fraction of the cost.
4 ADVANTAGES TO CHOOSING A COMMUNITY COLLEGE OVER A UNIVERSITY
When high school seniors are deciding how to pursue higher education, they may not initially think of community colleges. But these schools shouldn't be overlooked. Community college is a great fit for many students, and often better than going to a four-year college, It can help students develop necessary academic skills, mature emotionally, and often lead to a more fulfilling, better-paying careers.
1.) COST – It goes without saying that obtaining an education at community colleges is typically far less expensive than a comparable education at a four-year college or university. In fact, many university students graduate having accumulated staggering levels of debt. So if you don’t want to mortgage your future to receive a good education, attending a community college might just end up being your best option. Because of the relatively low cost of attending community college, higher education is now available to individuals who could otherwise not afford the cost of attending a traditional four-year college or university. With the soaring costs of tuition, books and living in general, and a tighter job market a larger number of career-minded students and aspiring professionals are opting to earn their degree at a community college.
2.) ADMISSION – Community colleges typically have much less strict admission requirements than universities. In fact, many have open admission policies, meaning any person who graduates high school and applies gets accepted. However, certain community college programs may have stricter admission requirements, such as those in nursing or engineering technology. Universities tend to be much pickier when it comes to admissions, which means you better be ready to do more than just submit an application.
3.) CLASS SIZES – Also something to consider when deciding on a community college or a university. Universities tend to have much larger class sizes due to the amount of students that attend the school, and this can mean less one-on-one attention from teachers for you. Since community colleges usually have a much lower overall student population, class sizes are also much smaller. The average class size at community colleges ranges from 25-35, while classes at universities can have 150-300 students. If you enjoy one-on-one teacher attention, this can have a huge impact on your school decision.
4.) FLEXIBILITY – Due to financial constraints and a tightening job market, many students are finding the need to work while attending college. Hands down, community colleges are the best option for students who plan on working more than part-time while earning their degree. Community colleges typically offer a much larger selection of night courses than four-year colleges and more schedule options. In addition, class attendance is often not required as it is at many four-year institutions.
Ultimately, if you maximize your experiences who know what you may get out of community college vs a university. The first step is being aware of what you want out of your education and then, being conscious of what your institution has to offer Malu.
Hope this was Helpful
I appreciate your support, John
malu
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Your welcome Malu. Start by making a list of educational goals to determine what type of college is best for you Malu.
Doc Frick
Suzanne Swain Brint
Nursing
169
Answers
Santa Monica, California
Updated
Suzanne’s Answer
Hi Malu,
If you are uncertain of a future career path and/or college career, there is absolutely nothing wrong with starting off at your local community college. You can start by taking the required classes to earn your bachelor's degree without incurring the costs associated with studying at a university. As you begin your academic life in community college, you will have opportunities to explore areas of interest, talk to your peers about possible careers, become involved in campus activities and generally become comfortable with college life. You will save costs by hopefully living at home although some students enjoy working part-time and living on their own with roommates off campus. The per unit costs of community college are greatly reduced as well. These are all personal decisions. If you do elect to attend community college, make sure to develop a relationship with your academic counselor.
This advice is not to recommend community college over university, but simply to acknowledge some of the possible benefits. Below you will find some helpful advice. Please copy and paste the links into your web browser.
I earned my Associate of Science in Nursing from a community college and went on to finish my Master's degree while working! You see, anything is possible! I had a wonderful career and advanced to the top of my specialty over the years.
In the meantime, take advantage of any and all volunteer opportunities (even during the pandemic). Try to find part time/summer work. Explore your interests (music, art, athletics) and participate in those activities. All of these things will help you to figure out your passions and how you want to spend your work life in the years ahead. If you can, exert your efforts towards those careers that not only secure a good future for yourself and future family, but also help to make the world a better place. This will allow you to have meaningful work and purpose. I can't emphasize this enough; to work with purpose is incredibly important. It has to be very worth your time and effort to get up and go to work every day for your adult life.
I hope this is useful!
Best to you and stay well,
Sue
https://study.com/blog/community-college-vs-university-the-big-differences.html
https://www.educationcorner.com/community-college-vs-university.html
https://www.educationcorner.com/community-college-vs-university.html
https://www.careerkey.org/choose-a-career/how-to-choose-a-career.html#.Xs0scBNKi00
https://waitbutwhy.com/2018/04/picking-career.html
If you are uncertain of a future career path and/or college career, there is absolutely nothing wrong with starting off at your local community college. You can start by taking the required classes to earn your bachelor's degree without incurring the costs associated with studying at a university. As you begin your academic life in community college, you will have opportunities to explore areas of interest, talk to your peers about possible careers, become involved in campus activities and generally become comfortable with college life. You will save costs by hopefully living at home although some students enjoy working part-time and living on their own with roommates off campus. The per unit costs of community college are greatly reduced as well. These are all personal decisions. If you do elect to attend community college, make sure to develop a relationship with your academic counselor.
This advice is not to recommend community college over university, but simply to acknowledge some of the possible benefits. Below you will find some helpful advice. Please copy and paste the links into your web browser.
I earned my Associate of Science in Nursing from a community college and went on to finish my Master's degree while working! You see, anything is possible! I had a wonderful career and advanced to the top of my specialty over the years.
In the meantime, take advantage of any and all volunteer opportunities (even during the pandemic). Try to find part time/summer work. Explore your interests (music, art, athletics) and participate in those activities. All of these things will help you to figure out your passions and how you want to spend your work life in the years ahead. If you can, exert your efforts towards those careers that not only secure a good future for yourself and future family, but also help to make the world a better place. This will allow you to have meaningful work and purpose. I can't emphasize this enough; to work with purpose is incredibly important. It has to be very worth your time and effort to get up and go to work every day for your adult life.
I hope this is useful!
Best to you and stay well,
Sue
https://study.com/blog/community-college-vs-university-the-big-differences.html
https://www.educationcorner.com/community-college-vs-university.html
https://www.educationcorner.com/community-college-vs-university.html
https://www.careerkey.org/choose-a-career/how-to-choose-a-career.html#.Xs0scBNKi00
https://waitbutwhy.com/2018/04/picking-career.html
Kevin Cronin
Commercial Credit Analyst
20
Answers
Ewing Township, New Jersey
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
if you are undecided about your major and/or career
you may want to consider a community college and taking the
electives that will transfer to a college or university
guidance counselors can assist you in determining what the best courses
to take are (as far as transferring those credits to your future school)
I as I have been saying today in my answers
I would recommend taking aptitude test to help determine your core interest
and possible careers that match your interest
this may go along way in determining what career is best for you
then picking a college that has a good program in that field
Good Luck
you may want to consider a community college and taking the
electives that will transfer to a college or university
guidance counselors can assist you in determining what the best courses
to take are (as far as transferring those credits to your future school)
I as I have been saying today in my answers
I would recommend taking aptitude test to help determine your core interest
and possible careers that match your interest
this may go along way in determining what career is best for you
then picking a college that has a good program in that field
Good Luck
Riley Carr
Business Analyst
180
Answers
Hollywood, Florida
Updated
Riley’s Answer
I think the biggest difference between these two is your preferred living situations. Most people who choose to go to community college can stay at home with their parents and commute to school, which saves a ton of money. However, if you go to university you will have the option to live in a dorm and most universities will require their first-year students to do that.
The second deciding factor would be the tuition difference. In the US, the average yearly tuition price for state community college is about $4,00 ($8,000 for out of state); whereas the average yearly tuition for a university in Minnesota is $15,000. Keep in mind, this is subject to change depending on which school you choose but this is the average ratio.
Another thing you will need to consider is that community colleges are much less competitive to be accepted to, so you will not need to worry so much about your grades in high school. Considering that, when you will be applying to jobs in the future it will look much better on your resume if you attended a university instead of a community college because it shows more initiative.
The second deciding factor would be the tuition difference. In the US, the average yearly tuition price for state community college is about $4,00 ($8,000 for out of state); whereas the average yearly tuition for a university in Minnesota is $15,000. Keep in mind, this is subject to change depending on which school you choose but this is the average ratio.
Another thing you will need to consider is that community colleges are much less competitive to be accepted to, so you will not need to worry so much about your grades in high school. Considering that, when you will be applying to jobs in the future it will look much better on your resume if you attended a university instead of a community college because it shows more initiative.
Brittany Kamson
Sales
4
Answers
Somerville, Massachusetts
Updated
Brittany’s Answer
There are certainly a lot of pros and cons to either choice.
I had the opportunity to attend a 4 year university which I would highly recommend to anyone looking for the 'traditional' college experience with various class offerings, multiple options for extracurricular activities (clubs, greek life, sports, academic groups, etc) and the opportunity to really immerse yourself in the on-campus culture by living in the university provided housing. Although this allows for an amazing on-campus experience where you can really get involved in different opportunities and explore what really excites you, the 4-year experience also has a hefty price tag on it.
With community colleges, you can often times still get a 'traditional' college experience but the offerings may be more limited than what you can find at a 4-year university. That being said, you will still find yourself with great course options, a flexible academic schedule and a more affordable education.
At the end of the day, most employers are just looking to see that you have got a degree (and even that is something that's being discussed as not 100% essential for some companies moving forward). You should definitely do some research into the factors that are most important to you in your college experience and then go with your gut!
Article about pros and cons of a college vs university: https://blog.hocking.edu/community-college-vs-university-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly
I had the opportunity to attend a 4 year university which I would highly recommend to anyone looking for the 'traditional' college experience with various class offerings, multiple options for extracurricular activities (clubs, greek life, sports, academic groups, etc) and the opportunity to really immerse yourself in the on-campus culture by living in the university provided housing. Although this allows for an amazing on-campus experience where you can really get involved in different opportunities and explore what really excites you, the 4-year experience also has a hefty price tag on it.
With community colleges, you can often times still get a 'traditional' college experience but the offerings may be more limited than what you can find at a 4-year university. That being said, you will still find yourself with great course options, a flexible academic schedule and a more affordable education.
At the end of the day, most employers are just looking to see that you have got a degree (and even that is something that's being discussed as not 100% essential for some companies moving forward). You should definitely do some research into the factors that are most important to you in your college experience and then go with your gut!
Article about pros and cons of a college vs university: https://blog.hocking.edu/community-college-vs-university-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly
Marianne Stowell
Commercial Lender
7
Answers
Bolton, Connecticut
Updated
Marianne’s Answer
I would start off by figuring out what you ideally would like to do or study and how that will translate into a job when you are done. You also need to know what your budget is for your education and what type of experience you are looking for. Get a degree and job or college "experience" or both.
If you aren't sure but know you want to go to college, starting at a community college is a very good option to get the basic credits under your belt. Just look into the ability to transfer those credit if you want to go beyond an associates degree. For many this is an excellent way to begin your college career. Then you can transfer to a 4 year school to further your education depending on your field.
Another option is to attend a local four year college (state school) that is less expensive where you could also live at home and commute. This drastically reduces the expense. It can inhibit your experience however you could always choose to live on campus maybe your senior year.
What I highly recommend is making sure you aren't taking on large amounts of debt for an education which will put you at a disadvantage financially when you graduate. Best of luck with your decision.
If you aren't sure but know you want to go to college, starting at a community college is a very good option to get the basic credits under your belt. Just look into the ability to transfer those credit if you want to go beyond an associates degree. For many this is an excellent way to begin your college career. Then you can transfer to a 4 year school to further your education depending on your field.
Another option is to attend a local four year college (state school) that is less expensive where you could also live at home and commute. This drastically reduces the expense. It can inhibit your experience however you could always choose to live on campus maybe your senior year.
What I highly recommend is making sure you aren't taking on large amounts of debt for an education which will put you at a disadvantage financially when you graduate. Best of luck with your decision.
Michael Shea
Loan Systems Analyst
2
Answers
Dalton, Massachusetts
Updated
Michael’s Answer
I would start by figuring out what you want to do. If you cant figure out what to do don't be afraid to go to a Community College to get your core classes out of the way. That'll give you some time to figure out what you want to do while completing classes you would've had to take anyways. (this can also save you some money!)
Angela D. Blaver (Suissa), Ph.D.
Retired
110
Answers
Daytona Beach, Florida
Updated
Angela D.’s Answer
This is a very important question! I echo Suzanne. Like her, I’m not proposing one direction or the other, but there are certain considerations regarding community colleges and transferring. Please see below for some food for thought. Really, it all depends on your goals and preferences. These include your chosen career/major/field, school size, housing options, urban/rural/suburban location, student life, arts/culture, financial considerations, and even weather (especially if you like the outdoors or seasonal sports like skiing!). Listing pros and cons will help you make a more objective decision about attending a two-year or four-year college. Then you have to research and decide which specific school(s) will potentially work best for you to achieve the aforementioned goals and satisfy most, if not all, of your preferences. Wishing you the best in your endeavors, Dr. B
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/2017-09-22/transferring-colleges-10-frequently-asked-questions
https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/slideshows/10-reasons-to-attend-a-community-college
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/2017-09-22/transferring-colleges-10-frequently-asked-questions
https://www.usnews.com/education/community-colleges/slideshows/10-reasons-to-attend-a-community-college
Robert Peters
Fleet Service Agent/ Driver
21
Answers
Kissimmee, Florida
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hi Malu, First off are you getting any financial aid as this can be a big factor. Are you staying in state? Have you talked to your school career counselor for any advice? Good luck
Jess Nguyen
Software Engineer
5
Answers
Dublin, California
Updated
Jess’s Answer
There are definitely pros and cons for both.
UNIVERSITY:
Pros:
- Social aspect: dorm experience, meeting more new people
- Less transition time (you get used to the schedule - quarter vs semester system, the campus, the online education system)
- Independence (if you're not living with your parents)
Cons:
- Expensive
COMMUNITY COLLEGE:
Pros:
- Save money
- Lower-division classes might have less workload than those at universities
Cons:
- You're missing out on college experience
- You need more time to transition (when you first start CC and again when you transfer)
In the end, it depends on your situation and what you prefer. Best of luck!
UNIVERSITY:
Pros:
- Social aspect: dorm experience, meeting more new people
- Less transition time (you get used to the schedule - quarter vs semester system, the campus, the online education system)
- Independence (if you're not living with your parents)
Cons:
- Expensive
COMMUNITY COLLEGE:
Pros:
- Save money
- Lower-division classes might have less workload than those at universities
Cons:
- You're missing out on college experience
- You need more time to transition (when you first start CC and again when you transfer)
In the end, it depends on your situation and what you prefer. Best of luck!
Khrystyna Volytska
Commercial Portfolio Manager
7
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
Khrystyna’s Answer
Hi Malu!
You have to think about where you will feel more comfortable. I would do a research of few schools you want to go to and check out what groups, organizations, programs they have. If you plan on living on campus, then you have to take the whole atmosphere in to account.
Also, look at financial aspect. I am almost done paying off my student loans (finally) and don't recommend to anyone taking out a lot of loans to go to private school. There are a lot of great community colleges that offer variety of degrees and after you can easily transfer to 4-year school. That's what I did. I went to a local community college and transferred to a university after two years and all of my classes (max of 66 credits) transferred. It actually saved me a lot of money and it was great experience. I've done research before hand to make sure it will transfer etc, but it was all worth it. If I were to do it again, I wouldn't change anything unless I got a full scholarship to a 4 year school right away.
Good luck!
You have to think about where you will feel more comfortable. I would do a research of few schools you want to go to and check out what groups, organizations, programs they have. If you plan on living on campus, then you have to take the whole atmosphere in to account.
Also, look at financial aspect. I am almost done paying off my student loans (finally) and don't recommend to anyone taking out a lot of loans to go to private school. There are a lot of great community colleges that offer variety of degrees and after you can easily transfer to 4-year school. That's what I did. I went to a local community college and transferred to a university after two years and all of my classes (max of 66 credits) transferred. It actually saved me a lot of money and it was great experience. I've done research before hand to make sure it will transfer etc, but it was all worth it. If I were to do it again, I wouldn't change anything unless I got a full scholarship to a 4 year school right away.
Good luck!
Austin Claiborne
VIP & Hospitality Coordinator
8
Answers
Alameda, California
Updated
Austin’s Answer
Hi Malu,
It's definitely different for everyone because it depends on what you want to do for a degree and career, but hopefully, I can help clarify both options. Trying to save money or figure out what degree to pursue are two big components of going to community college. There are a lot of people who choose to go to a local community college for their first two years (as they save money and start knowing which career they want) and then transfer to a university to finish out the rest. It is actually a really good path to a degree and is done by a lot of students. But like I stated earlier everyone has their own path and so if you choose a community college, university, or a mix of both, you still will be able to find the right one for you. If I were you, I would pick two or three community colleges and universities and research them online to see if anything sparks your interest. You might actually find that there is a university you really like or a community college with a great program, which will make your decision that much easier.
I hope this helps and best of luck.
It's definitely different for everyone because it depends on what you want to do for a degree and career, but hopefully, I can help clarify both options. Trying to save money or figure out what degree to pursue are two big components of going to community college. There are a lot of people who choose to go to a local community college for their first two years (as they save money and start knowing which career they want) and then transfer to a university to finish out the rest. It is actually a really good path to a degree and is done by a lot of students. But like I stated earlier everyone has their own path and so if you choose a community college, university, or a mix of both, you still will be able to find the right one for you. If I were you, I would pick two or three community colleges and universities and research them online to see if anything sparks your interest. You might actually find that there is a university you really like or a community college with a great program, which will make your decision that much easier.
I hope this helps and best of luck.
Gregory Soncrant
Risk Consultant
15
Answers
Grosse Ile Township, Michigan
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
Community college will definitely save you money and earn you an Associates Degree ( 2 year degree) as well. If your opportunities for scholarship money towards college are limited, community college is a good way to go. Just be sure the program/classes you take are fully accepted at your desired college university towards your Bachelor's Degree (4 year degree).
If you are able to get a fully paid or nearly fully paid scholarship to a University, then attending a University for your entire 4 years of study would be better. The university academic experience and environment is better than at community college overall. Remember that room and board expenses living in a dorm on campus at a university are nearly as much as the tuition. Something to consider.
If you are able to get a fully paid or nearly fully paid scholarship to a University, then attending a University for your entire 4 years of study would be better. The university academic experience and environment is better than at community college overall. Remember that room and board expenses living in a dorm on campus at a university are nearly as much as the tuition. Something to consider.
Desiree Warnke
Commercial Credit Associate - Analyst
5
Answers
Denville, New Jersey
Updated
Desiree’s Answer
Cost is the first step. How much can you/family, grants, etc. cover?..
Then geography. Do you want to be close to family or farther away?
Then school type. Do you want a large school with large classrooms or do you want a small private setting.
All of these things can be obtained whether its a community college OR university.
I personally moved as far away from my family to go to a private college my freshman year to only come back and go to a small community college for my associates. I then transferred to a state university to finish my degree and commuted the whole time. I didn't want to live in a dorm and didn't know what I wanted to do either so I felt the community college was a good tool in figuring out where I wanted to go first. But, that's what worked for me, an introvert that needs to be close to home.
Good luck.
Then geography. Do you want to be close to family or farther away?
Then school type. Do you want a large school with large classrooms or do you want a small private setting.
All of these things can be obtained whether its a community college OR university.
I personally moved as far away from my family to go to a private college my freshman year to only come back and go to a small community college for my associates. I then transferred to a state university to finish my degree and commuted the whole time. I didn't want to live in a dorm and didn't know what I wanted to do either so I felt the community college was a good tool in figuring out where I wanted to go first. But, that's what worked for me, an introvert that needs to be close to home.
Good luck.
John S
Commercial Lending
4
Answers
Cherry Hill, New Jersey
Updated
John’s Answer
If you are undecided on a major or a career, community could be a very good option. You can take all of your core classes at reduced cost per credit (vs a 4 year school), get comfortable on a college campus and get exposure to different people / professors that may guide you to your eventual major and career. Good luck to you.
Eric M
Corporate IT
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Hi Malu,
Community College is a great way to save money if you haven't quite decided what college or degree you want to attend.
If the cost of going to college is a concern for you and your family, there are options you can look into with regards to financial assistance such as loans and scholarships. My first year in college I was able to get a combination of both and I worked part time on school campus at the book store.
Hope this helps!
Eric
Community College is a great way to save money if you haven't quite decided what college or degree you want to attend.
If the cost of going to college is a concern for you and your family, there are options you can look into with regards to financial assistance such as loans and scholarships. My first year in college I was able to get a combination of both and I worked part time on school campus at the book store.
Hope this helps!
Eric
Pro Professional
209
Answers
Fort Worth, Texas
Updated