Community College vs. University: Which One Is Best For You?

Upon completing their high school education, most students are at crossroads, faced with a decision about what path to choose for their future. They are given two options; community college or university. It is often tough to decide between a university and community college, given each has its own benefits; but with this article, we intend to help you make up your mind. Empowerly can help you with its counseling services and ensure you make a decision you won't regret. 

Looking at both sides of the coin before making your decision is essential. Therefore, we will discuss the pros and cons of community college. 

• Cheaper 

Community colleges are much cheaper as compared to universities. You can calculate the per year cost of your college and compare it to what you may have to pay at a university. (The cost difference may also depend on what kind of college or university you compare.) In addition to lower tuition, you can often commute from homet if you attend a local college, so that no overhead costs for housing or a meal plan are involved.

• Easy To Apply 

Private universities require you to take a standardized test. This can be difficult for some students and reduce their chances of getting into a private university. On the other hand, community colleges take an assessment after you enroll so they can decide what level of classes are the best options for you. Community colleges do not have strict requirements when it comes to admissions. 

• Fewer Extracurricular activities 

Sadly, if you want to play a sport competitively, that is not an option with community colleges. They do not have any competitive sports teams. However, intramural or club games might be an option instead.

• No Campus Housing 

Community colleges are especially for urban geographical communities, which means that they cater to commuters and do not offer housing or meal plans. You may find cafeterias or cafes, but that’s about it in terms of student gathering spaces. 

• Lack Of Educational Depth 

Community colleges focus primarily on all the basics. You will not be able to get a bachelor's degree from most community colleges. Instead, they grant associates (AA) degrees and help you prepare transfer students for four-year degrees. You must go to a university if you are looking for full-fledged bachelors (BA) degrees. It can, however, help you when transferring from community college to university.  

If you are interested in joining a university, you can look at the following pros and cons to decide. 

• High Online Visibility 

Universities have a lot of online information, and students can get all the information they need. These universities are also always ready to connect with and guide prospective students. Often, you can talk to them quickly and even get a virtual tour to see what it is like to study at a private university. 

• Scholarship Opportunities 

Alums from universities often leave behind scholarships for other students. In addition, private universities offer other types of scholarships to help students get the education they need. These scholarships can include sports or even music awards.  

• Expensive 

University education is much more expensive, and many different costs add up to a large sum payable by the student. For instance, students will be required to pay for housing, meal plans, and more in addition to the already high tuition charges.

• High Student To Teacher Ratio 

Universities have a high student-to-teacher ratio, meaning more students are in every teacher's class. This can be a con for students who prefer a smaller group to get the attention they need. There may be hundreds of students in a single class at the university. 

• Living Expenses 

Private universities may not be in the same area as you, and you may even have to move if you want to study at a particular university. This adds to the living expenses, making it difficult for most of them to afford. 

If you have decided where you want to attend after weighing all the pros and the cons, then you must take a quiz at the Empowerly platform and receive your assessment to see what your best options are. The Empowerly platform offers you the right tools to help you make a decision, and with its quiz, you can get a clearer picture of all your options. Take control of your education today.