PIC Current

Taylor Dixon—PIC Current Assistant Producer

**Editors Note: This is part I of a three part series on getting into and paying for college. For more about higher-education, please visit our sister site, The Beehive.**

College. The very word makes some people nervous. It doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking idea however, as it has the potential to place you and many around you into your desired career-path, expand your horizons and even teach you how to learn more efficiently than you knew how before.

Studies have shown that the higher your education is, the more likely you are to get into a stable, better-paying job. 

College is an enriching time filled with life lessons, but also frustrations. Picking the right path for you is key to having a productive experience. So how do you know which school is the right one for you? Today, we offer info on the basic options.

Community Colleges

Two- year degrees or an Associate degree in a skilled trade or profession are offered at Community Colleges. Paramedics, professional photographers, and dental assistants are some examples of degrees that can be earned at a Community College, allowing for you to enter right into a trade or profession. You can also enroll in a two-year college to get general education requirements out of the way in preparation for a four-year degree. Many students choose this as an option to stay closer to home for the first two years and save money. The cost of tuition at Community Colleges is usually more affordable than it is when attending the whole four years at a state or private university. More and more students are going this route.

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State Colleges

Four-year degrees or higher are awarded at these schools. Many choose to earn either a Bachelor of Arts or Science. Some return to pursue graduate school and earn a Masters degree, or even continue on to earn a PHD (Doctorate) or MD (Medical Doctor). Choosing the right major is really up to the individual. It is recommended to sample from as many different courses as possible and choose the major that best fits your interests and talents. Most state colleges offer a wide range of major options in the areas of Liberal Arts, Sciences, Education, Performing Arts, Business, and Law.

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Private Universities and Ivy League

If you’re looking for some one-on-one instruction time, or a less crowded learning environment, Private and Ivy League Universities are recommended. Classrooms are typically smaller, allowing for more personalized time between students and instructors. Private and Ivy League Universities also do not receive funding from the government, like State and Public Universities do, so all funding comes directly from tuition and alumni donations. The quality of education is typically higher as well at these schools, as tuition costs more and instructors generally hold higher teaching qualifications than those who might teach at a two-year college.

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Online Courses

Classes are also offered online if you are juggling a busy work schedule or family life. This is the new wave of education as technology advances and expands the opportunities for eager students. This is best suited for you if you are an independent worker and can set your own deadlines. You must be disciplined in logging on for class time and stay caught up with your course readings.

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To begin your college search, check out these helpful links:

actstudent
collegedata
collegeview
cnsearch

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