College...University...What's the Difference?

We have been throwing around the phrase "college" a lot. But in your search for colleges, you might have come across many "universities" as well. You might be thinking, "What's the difference?" Well, there are many similarities and differences between colleges and universities!

In the United States, the term "college" refers to any type of post-high school academic institution (Fun fact: In Europe, they call their high schools college!). There are many types of colleges:

• A junior or community college is a college that typically lasts two years and offers associate's degrees. Community colleges are often smaller than a four-year college or a university and offer classes that help students pursue careers in many fields, including nursing, mechanics, vet technicians, massage therapy, and so much more. An example of a community college near you is Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC).

 KVCC is located in Fairfield, Maine!

• Colleges that last four years offer bachelors' degrees. Many times, four-year colleges have a liberal arts emphasis, meaning that students are able to study many subjects and fields without having to specialize on one major in their first year. Colby College is a liberal arts school, and so is Bates College and Bowdoin College. All of these colleges are in your home state!

Bowdoin's mascot is a polar bear, Bates' mascot is a bobcat, and Colby's mascot is a mule. These schools often compete against one another in athletics as well as collaborate on academics!







On the other hand, universities are institutions that provide both undergraduate and graduate education. This means that you can not only receive a bachelors' degree at a universtiy, but a masters' degree as well. Universities often have an undergraduate school where you can study all majors, then many specific graduate schools attached to the university; for instance, a "School of Law" or a "School of Medicine." At graduate school, you can prepare yourself for a highly specific job, such as being a doctor or a lawyer. Also, state universities offer a reduced cost to students from that state. Maine as many universities to choose from, including:

• University of Maine - Orono
• University of Maine - Farmington
• University of Maine - Augusta
• University of Maine - Machias
• University of Maine - Fort Kent
• New England University

As you can see, colleges and universities are pretty similar, but they all have something unique to offer. We hope this helps you to narrow down your college/university choices!