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Types Of Higher Education Institutions in the United States

Types of Educational Institutions in the US: A Brief Guide

Choosing where you want to study – from the location to the program, is a tedious and tumultuous process. A common aspect that is overlooked many times is the type of University or College one is choosing.   

1. Public University 

These are funded by the Government and offer a varying array of subjects to choose from. Public Universities in the USA are quite affordable, especially for international students.   

As they tend to be larger, Public Universities in the USA can offer work-study positions to a greater number of students while being at par, or even above the standard for education. 

The tuition fee at public universities is much more affordable as these universities receive funds from federal and state governments. Public universities have higher student enrollments as compared to private universities due to which they collect more tuition and can reduce the overall cost of education.  

  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of Michigan
  • The University of Virginia are all public universities in the USA.   

2. Private University

Separate entities free from the workings of the State, Private Universities in the USA offer state-of-the-art infrastructure, with cutting-edge technologies and research avenues to explore. Their faculty are among the best in the world, and teach smaller class sizes, focusing personally on students. The fee, as expected, is way higher than a public university. That said, they also receive state grants and provide many competitive scholarship options to students. The financial aid packages offered by the private colleges can make them appear more affordable than public universities in the USA. Significant benefits of studying in a private university are the lower-class size, as well as the significantly higher networking opportunities due to a more engaged and active network of alumni.   

  • The University of Pennsylvania
  • John Hopkins University
  • The University of Chicago are a few among many well-known private universities.   

3. Ivy Leagues 

These are highly regarded Private Universities with a reputation of handpicking and nurturing only the best of the best. Their names hold great weight, and these schools are famous for producing some of the brightest minds from all disciplines especially in Arts. 

An Ivy League school education in the USA, or even globally – might be considered better than any other top-tier university simply because of its name. A degree from an Ivy League college will open countless doors for you because prospective Employers and Graduate Schools will know immediately that you survived, nay – thrived, in an extremely competitive environment, that too in the American education system.  

Other than outstanding infrastructure, peer groups, and faculty, Ivy Leagues bestow upon students a lifelong Ivy League network that keeps growing.  

  • Harvard University
  • Yale University
  • Princeton University

4. Community College 

These are two-year colleges that offer ‘Certifications’ & ‘Associate Degrees’. An important point to keep in mind when applying is to check if the associate degree is transferable. This leads students to a two-pronged road: one leading them to transfer to another University to further their education in the USA, and the second is to guide them straight into the workforce, which is different from the American education system.  

The transferable degrees are usually the ‘Associate of Arts’ &/or ‘Associate of Science’, while the ‘Associate of Applied Science Degrees’ and ‘Certificates of Completion’ are likely to be non-transferable.   

The associate degrees in Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology are quite popular since these STEM subjects are in demand, and some community colleges are supporting these students as they work their way up the corporate ladder.  

Most Community College graduates go on to join other Universities to complete their 4 years of undergraduate education. It is always advisable to do thorough research into the credibility of Community Colleges. Students not proficient in English may take ‘ESL’ or rigorous English Language Programs to prepare for the transition into university.   

Joining Community College in the USA is a good way for students to ease into the world of higher education and study at their own pace. Especially for those who had a hard time in high school or those unsure about attending college.   

  • Seattle Central College
  • Santa Monica College
  • Valencia College
  • Sacramento City College.   

5. Technical School / Institutes of Technology 

Institutes of Technology offer degrees in engineering, science, and research. Students in high school or graduates who desire to study Science or Math prefer these colleges.   

Since these schools concentrate solely on STEM subjects, they offer a wide range of courses ranging from Undergraduate, Postgraduate, short-term diplomas, and even certificate courses.   

These colleges not only provide advanced education but also pave the way to quickly and higher-paying jobs. There is also an option of transferring to other Universities, since Credits are transferrable, and one can always finish their 4-year degree.  

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
  • California Polytechnic Institute
  • Georgia Institute of Technology 

6. Liberal Arts School 

Offers Undergraduate courses, Liberal Arts Schools offer degrees in Humanities, Sciences, and Social Science. They have smaller classes and a keen focus on individual attention and are known for their extremely tough admission standards. 

These colleges prepare their students for careers instead of a ‘single career’ path. Students in the American education system do have freedom but, Liberal Arts students tend to have more liberty in choosing classes to even hand-picking and curation of one’s programs. 

Communication and critical-thinking skills are developed in Liberal Art students, preparing them for versatile career roles. With a diverse peer group, students gain a broader perspective and understanding of subjects.   

  • Scripps College
  • Grinnell College
  • Colgate University
  • Bates College 

Choosing your college can be a tough decision – especially because the process has so many nuances & underlying factors to be taken care of. We at EduVisa Services can help you to get a head start on your future! (Don’t miss out on our free consultations for students!) 

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