Community colleges offer two kinds of programs. One offers diplomas and certificates that can be earned in six months to two years. These show that the student has a set of skills for a job like auto mechanics or medical technology. The other type is for two-year associate degrees. These prepare students for a career, such as a dental technician or teacher’s assistant. They also prepare students for continuing their education. Many students spend their first two years in an associate program before moving on to finish at a four-year college. Some of you may earn your associate's while still in high school if you are pursuing dual enrollment.

Four-year colleges and universities offer undergraduate degrees, which are also called bachelor’s degrees. Students select a major to focus their studies and prepare for a career. Examples of majors are history, engineering, biology, computer science and business. Students going to these colleges may get a job after graduation in careers like teaching, nursing or technology. Or they might go on to a graduate school to get an advanced degree in fields like medicine or law.