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The Difference between a College and a University


A college and university differ in several ways. The biggest distinction between a college and a university is that a college offers a collection of degrees in one particular field of study or area. A university offers a specific type of degree in one area.

When someone attends a university after graduating from college it means that you are graduating from one of the universities colleges. For example if you received a four year degree in the field of law and you are attending a university for graduate studies you are essentially attending a college that is part of that university. Harvard Law School, a branch of the university, is an easy example to understand.

Another difference between a college and a university is that a college tends to be smaller then a university. A university is usually better known then a college. Many people believe that the only difference between a college and a university us the terminology. In the United States there is very little difference academically between a college and a university. The words can be used universally in some cases.

A difference between a college and university is the various types of colleges that one can attend. An individual can go to a community college or a trade school or a vocational school which are also considered to be a type of college. These are a few of the main differences between a university and college. In most respects a university and a college are very similar when considering academic classes and curriculum standards.

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