Community College
From LoveToKnow College
The Benefits of a Community College or Junior College
Lower tuition
On average, you can save over $3000 over the course of two years by opting for a community college instead of a university.
Smaller classes
The classes at a smaller school are more like the high school environment. There are fewer students than in a university, so each student gets more individual attention from the professor. There's more teacher-student interaction rather than long lectures in a huge auditorium. Small classes are not exclusive to community colleges--some universities have them--but they're more of a norm there.
Professors have one goal--teaching you
Have you ever heard the phrase, "Publish or perish"? Professors at large universities have two goals--to teach and to publish, and teaching isn't necessarily the most important of the two. You could be sacrificing individual attention if you choose a university.
Flexible schedules
If you're an adult going back to school, you probably have a pretty busy schedule. You'll be juggling school, homework, family, and probably a full-time job. Junior colleges have schedules that can accommodate your needs. That way, you can get your degree on your terms.
Convenience of location
Community colleges are everywhere. Chances are, there's one just a short drive from your house. Having a school close to home or work makes it easier to schedule classes and make it to them on time.
Get a better job when you earn an Associates degree
You can make yourself worth a lot more as an employee if you have a degree--any degree. That results in more money for you. If there's a job you want but aren't qualified for, a community college can be a good starting point. A two-year degree can give you the confidence you need to go after your dream job or ask for a raise or promotion.
Motivation to attend a university or other four-year school
Once you get two years of school under your belt, you may find it hard to stop. Another two years will land you a Bachelors degree. In turn, you may be a candidate for yet another raise, promotion, or a different job all together.
Transferring to a Four-Year College or University
In an article at CollegeAndUniversity.net, a community college career counselor claims that students who transfer to a four-year school after spending their first two years at a junior college are more prepared. They're also more mature and better at managing their time than students who started out at the four-year school.
Before you enroll at a community college, check with the school you ultimately plan to transfer to. Make sure the classes you will be taking at the two-year school will apply to a four-year degree. Otherwise you may end up retaking classes, or wasting time and money on courses you never actually needed to take. Work closely with the two schools to ensure the smoothest transition possible.
Find More Information About Schools or Programs Near You
These links will get you started on choosing a school and getting enrolled. You'll also find more pros and cons of two-year schools to assist you in your decision.
This page has been accessed 610 times. This page was last modified 13:05, 4 July 2006.
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