Colleges

A college is an institution of higher education that provides instructional programs beyond secondary school. Colleges commonly offer bachelor’s degrees and may also award associate degrees or certificates. They can operate as independent institutions or as part of a larger university system.

In the United States, the terms college and university convey different ideas: a college frequently denotes an undergraduate-focused institution or a division within a university, while a university typically offers both undergraduate and graduate programs and engages in research.

Types of colleges include liberal arts colleges, which emphasize broad undergraduate education; community colleges, which offer two-year degrees and certificates; specialized colleges focusing on fields such as engineering or business; and institutions defined by regional, religious, or historical affiliations, including historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

Admissions and funding: selection criteria vary; many colleges use high school records, recommendations, and standardized tests or portfolios. Tuition and fees vary widely, and financial aid, scholarships, and loans are common. Colleges are typically accredited by recognized agencies to ensure educational quality and legitimate degree-granting status.

History and role: colleges evolved from medieval European institutions established to educate clergy and scholars. In the 19th and 20th centuries, they expanded access and diversified their missions. Today, colleges range from small residential campuses to large urban institutions and increasingly offer online or hybrid programs to reach a broader student population.