Types of Institutions

2-YEAR COLLEGE

Community Colleges and Junior Colleges offer certificate (6-9 month training programs) and associates degree (2 year) programs that can either transfer to four-year colleges and universities or train you in the skills needed for various jobs.

Cheaper than 4-year colleges
Many degrees/certificates are transferable
Most do not have housing options - commuting via car or public transportation is usually required
Classes are usually smaller
Example: Arapahoe Community College, Otero Junior College

CERTIFICATE/VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS

Vocational schools offer short certificate programs with the goal of learning the skills necessary and earning required licensure to be successful in the workforce.

Typically transferrable to colleges/universities
Some programs can be as short as 1-2 months but typically no more than 18 months. Standard program duration is 3-9 months.
Cheaper than 2-year and 4-year school options
Specific to a particular field - generally no prerequisites of general education (English, math, etc)
No on campus housing - commuting is necessary
Typically no extracurricular activities
Example: Emily Griffith Technical College

4-YEAR PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS

4-year public universities and colleges offer bachelor's degrees. Students attending full time (12-15 credits per semester) typically graduate within 4-5 years. Public colleges and universities are funded by the state and usually offer different tuition rates for in-state and non-resident students.

On campus housing required for First Year students
Many institutions offer a wide array of extracurricular activities and sports
Public Universities/Colleges are larger than Private institutions
Public Universities may have a larger number of majors to choose from.
Example: University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, Metropolitan State University of Denver

4-YEAR PRIVATE INSTITUTION

Offer the same degree as a public institution and generally completed within the same span of time

Smaller than public universities
May be specialized to certain studies (engineering, liberal arts, etc)
No difference for in-state or non-resident students
On campus housing required for First Year Students
Some extracurriculars offered usually related to areas of academic study
Example: University of Denver, Colorado College

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