If you wonder about the difference between community college and university, you have come to the right place! I was a student at both levels, and I have taught at both as well. Let’s explore the main differences that you should consider when deciding between these two higher education options.
Difference Between Community College and University
Cost
First, a noticeable difference between community college and university is cost. Community college can save a substantial amount of money. It depends on where you live, but expect to pay substantially less per credit at a community college than you would at a university.
We can take education in California as an example. Below is a breakdown of what you would pay:
• California Community Colleges $46 per unit
• California State Universities $396 per unit
For a student who chooses to take courses and transfer units from community college to university, the savings would add up to $21,000! I would encourage you to apply for college scholarships. Regardless of whether you choose to attend a community college or a university, scholarships can make college more affordable. I was able to pay for my entire associate’s degree with scholarship money as a student and then transfer credits from community college to university to complete my bachelor’s degree.
Class Size
Another noticeable difference between community college and university is class size. Some general education classes at universities have over one hundred students. At a community college, you will be hard-pressed to find classes larger than 50. And oftentimes, class sizes are closer to 30 students. When you attend virtual or in-person college visits, I encourage you to ask questions about class size!
Professor-Student Working Relationships
Next, community college students should expect that they will get to know their professors more closely because of the smaller class sizes. This was a big advantage for me as a community college student because I came from a small high school and was intimidated by big universities’ large class sizes.
As a community college instructor, one of my favorite aspects of my job is truly getting to know my students and supporting them as individual learners! This is a difference between community college and university that should definitely weigh in a student’s decision.
Campus Environment
While community colleges have come a long way in building a campus environment with clubs, organizations, and the addition of dormitories at some schools, campus environments are often active than at universities. This can be a downfall for some students considering entering community college straight from high school. The positive news is there are opportunities to get involved and often less competition for leadership roles at community colleges because of the higher number of nontraditional, busy adult students. Like many aspects of life, your community college experience will depend largely on what you put into it!
Variety of Career-Related Programs
One of my favorite differences between community college and university is the number of career-related programs offered. At community colleges, students can choose between the following types of education and career preparation:
- Certificate – short-term (often one or two semesters) career-related program to prepare students for the workforce
- Terminal Associate Degree – two-year degree (for full-time students) in a career-related program that will prepare students to enter the workforce and well-rounded general education courses
- Associate Degree for Transfer – this two-year degree will allow students to transfer credits from community college to university to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
Another great feature of community college is stackable certificates and degrees that will make you more marketable to employers!
Flexibility
Finally, a big difference between community college and university is the flexibility offered to students. Community colleges exist to provide accessible education to citizens in their local area. This often includes many night class options, weekend courses, flexible online learning, and short-term condensed courses to expedite a certificate or degree. Whatever your need, the community college system is excellent at making education flexible to meet diverse students’ needs with different life circumstances and situations.
Are you planning your college and career journey?
I can help!
Hi, my name is Loren Kelly! I’m glad you are here learning about different options for your education. I’ve spent 10 years in higher education and am passionate about helping students of all ages choose their career path and plan their educational endeavors with confidence! I offer all free, 30-minute consultations to talk through your choices and determine your next action steps. I would love the opportunity to meet you! Click the button below to schedule your free, no-strings-attached Zoom meeting.
