Which Type of School is Right for Me?

State Universities
Academics:
Typically these institutions offer four-year (bachelor’s) degrees in a broad variety of fields. Class sizes can often be large but dwindle down as you reach upper level courses. Many offer post-graduate programs and can be a good choice if you wish to stay in one
place for your entire educational career.
Cost:
Generally less expensive then private institutions, especially if you attend your home state’s university where you will receive “in-state” tuition rates.
Campus Life:
Since they are often much lar4ger then their private counterparts they become cultural centers. From exciting nightlife to clubs, sororities, fraternities and large athletic programs these schools offer something for everyone.
Independent Colleges:
Academics:
Many times the number majors offered is less then that of a larger state school, But class sized tend to be much smaller, allowing you to get more individual attention from professors.
Cost:
Typically the most expensive option, but don’t let that deter you right away. Many private schools have extensive offerings when it comes to grants, loans, and scholarships, which may help put the school back into your price range.
Campus Life:
Often the most scenic campuses, the small size may help you to get to know your fellow classmates and be involved in more campus activities such as sports and clubs.
Community Colleges
Academics:
Offering a spectrum of two-year degrees which focus on either specialized job training or preparation for a transfer to a four-year program. Many students choose to start at a two-year community college and transfer to another school with a four-year program after general requirements are satisfied. This allows them lots of time to choose exactly what they want to study.
Cost:
Undoubtedly the best deal for your first two years of college, thus explaining why many students choose to start here and transfer to a four year program later. You will also save on room and board since most all community colleges focus on taking on students who already live in the area.
 
Campus Life:
Certainly these institutions have less of a campus feel then a state or private college, here you will find a variety of types of students, from adult learners to people looking to just take a class or two. Since students life off campus campuses are often small and academically oriented.
Technical Colleges
Academics:
Basing their curriculum around preparation for specific careers (automotive, paralegal and electrical for example), these institutions offer a great opportunity to develop a skill set specific to the career path you are looking to go down.
 
Cost:
The cost of these programs varies greatly, but programs are short and intense and typically are very affordable.
 
Campus Life:
Much like community colleges tech schools typically don’t house students, and thus campus tends to be small and utilitarian. On the positive side, since courses are taught by professionals in their respective fields, networking opportunities abound.