Researching Colleges

Reference & EducationCollege & University

  • Author Matt Murren
  • Published February 3, 2008
  • Word count 481

About 44% of all undergraduate students choose to attend junior colleges. Some of these students are only looking for an Associates Degree and others are preparing for advancement to a four year college or university. Generally junior or community colleges offer easily accessible locations, lower tuition rates, and the admission requirements are not very strict. They also offer comprehensive courses. If you are researching colleges to attend, know that community colleges often have classes that four year colleges do not offer. If  you are working and are looking to sharpen your skills in a particular field, a community college is the appropriate choice. If you want a career in just two years, a community college is perfect. Community colleges usually offer extensive financial aid such as Pell grants. Sometimes these grants completely cover the cost of tuition and books depending on the course of study. If your journey into researching colleges leads you to a four year college, You can obtain either a Bachelor’s Degree in arts or sciences or an Associates degree in arts are sciences. Four year colleges provide numerous fields of study. Universities also offer a wide variety of courses. The size of  the class depends on the size of the school.  These schools have curriculum's which include liberal arts, masters and P.H.D. programs. The professors at universities are usually engaged in some type of research. Often, graduate students instruct some the classes. When endeavoring in researching colleges, we need to weigh the differences between public colleges or universities and private schools.. Out-of –state tuition at public schools is higher than in-state tuition. Private universities and colleges are not supported by tax payers; consequently, private schools are more expensive than public schools. Private schools, nevertheless, do offer various financial aid plans in which monies can be borrowed and repaid at a set future date. When researching colleges, you will discover that many public colleges also offer continuing education courses. These courses usually consist of students over 24 years old, return students, parents, people beginning college a few years after high school graduation, and people changing careers. Be sure to conduct a thorough evaluation when researching colleges. Rate colleges by size, reputation, cost, location, and curriculum's offered. Information concerning these different categories can be found online. It is a terrific idea to visit the colleges that attract your attention. Before enrolling into a college be sure that you have found exactly what you are looking for. It is always a good idea to speak with alumni and other students about the college or university you wish to attend. You can probably attain a list of graduates from various college admissions offices. Also consult your family members. College often involves a big move away from home and family. Just remember when researching colleges, examine all the pros and cons of the different schools you may be interested in attending.

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