Liberal Arts Colleges

These colleges are usually small and offer a liberal education across the arts, humanities, English, philosophy, history, psychology, music, science and math. Their mission is to provide students with a comprehensive undergraduate education with faculties that focus on teaching with small discussion-based classes.

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Research Universities

These universities range in size from small to very large and their missions include research, public service and teaching. They offer a full-range of programs in undergraduate, master's and doctoral programs. Their faculty are often involved in cutting edge research. The classes may be large and they usually offer a wide range of degrees. 

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Comprehensive Colleges

These include master's universities, which provide a full-range of undergraduate programs along with some master's and doctoral degrees. Baccalaureate colleges offer programs in the liberal arts as well as pre-professional programs.

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Specialized Programs

Schools that have a specific focus such as fine arts, engineering or business can be designated as specialty schools. Students are usually committed to their particular emphasis before committing to one of these schools.

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Special Affiliations

Some schools identify themselves by specific affiliations such as religious, historically black, women's colleges or military academies.

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Community or Junior Colleges

These two-year colleges are often more affordable paths to a degree. Students may spend their first two years at a community college and then transfer to a university to earn their bachelor's degree. They also often offer certificate or specialized training in fields that do not require a bachelor's degree.