Choosing a College
Choosing which institution of higher education to attend is one of the most important decisions you will ever make! There are public and state schools, private schools, large universities and small colleges, institutions near your neighborhood or far from home.
Kauffman Scholars will have the opportunity to visit different colleges and universities, and receive guidance in conducting research to identify the school that is right for each individual. When it's time to choose a college, there are different types of schools for you to consider. There are many options, and it's best to take the time to do the research that will help you select the right place for YOU.
Giving you choices.
Kauffman Scholars Inc. is creating a network of college and university partners to give our Kauffman Scholars a wide range of choices regarding their undergraduate education. College scholarship assistance is available to all successful Kauffman Scholars.
What you should consider.
Following is a summary of the types of colleges and universities that you should consider before you make your choice:
Colleges offer four-year Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees or Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees. Colleges may offer a wide range of majors in the liberal arts, including the humanities, social sciences and sciences. Colleges may also be specialized, focusing on such majors as art, business, or nursing. Class sizes in colleges are likely to be smaller than those at a university.
Universities are generally large and offer a broader range of majors and degrees. Many universities include several separate colleges within the university, but a graduate's degree is granted from the university at-large. Degrees that are often available include a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, and a doctorate. Students who have decided to pursue additional degrees beyond the bachelor's degree may wish to give additional consideration to the university setting.
Community colleges offer two-year programs and award associate degrees. Many students transfer to a four year college or university after completing community college degrees. Technical or vocational specializations, such as medical technology, culinary training, and interior design, are often available at community colleges.
Key questions to ask.
When you are choosing where to pursue your undergraduate education, ask yourself some key questions:
- Are you interested in studying at a small college or a large university?
- Do you want to attend a college where most students are from out of town, or where most students are from the area where you grew up?
- Do you want a college where most students live on campus or one where most commute from home?
- Are you interested in special study abroad or internship opportunities provided by a particular college or university?
- Are you planning to pursue postgraduate education?