Some students know, beyond the shadow of a doubt, which college they will be attending.  They have been working toward that goal for a few years, and have been doing what they need to do in order to get accepted into their school of choice.  However, for some, choosing the right college is overwhelming and somewhat scary; some common thoughts are:

• It’s too expensive, how will I pay for it?  Will my financial aid cover the costs?
• It’s too far away, how will I navigate the distance?
• Am I stuck with my chosen major/specialty if I decide I don’t like it and want to shift gears/change schools?
• Will I be able to find a job right after college?
• Are any of my friends going there?  Will I make new friends?
• Will I live off-campus, or in the dorms?

This is where deciding between public and private universities comes into play.  Each type of school offers something of value to most students, but there are definitely differences between them.

Difference Between Public and Private Colleges

Simply put, public colleges are post-secondary schools primarily funded by the state government and tuition dollars.  Conversely, private colleges are post-secondary schools that are not funded by the government, but instead get their funding from tuition, alumni donations, and endowments.  Private schools are usually smaller than public schools and typically have smaller class sizes.

Advantages of a Public College

Diversity – Many public colleges have a large student population, which enables students to benefit from many different perspectives and the cultural awareness they provide.

Affordability – They generally have lower tuition rates, which makes them more accessible. In-state residents benefit even more, as their tuition is subsidized by state programs and taxes.

Program Offerings – They often offer more school-based programs like clubs, activities, and specialized classes.

Extracurricular Activities – These usually offer many opportunities for students to improve their academic performance and explore varied interests through activities outside of normal school hours.

Advantages of a Private College

Smaller Class Sizes – Depending on the course, smaller class sizes lead to more personalized assistance from professors, which makes it easier for them to help students individually and provides for more insightful classroom discussions.

Strong Alumni Networks – These can help provide valuable career connections and mentorship opportunities.

Financial Aid Packages – Education can be more accessible with significant financial aid packages.

Specialized Programs – They can more often provide unique programs, research opportunities, and internships tailored to specific areas of study.

Close-knit Communities – Because of the smaller campus size, they can make it easier to know other students by providing a closer-knit community atmosphere.

Weigh Your Options

When choosing a public or a private college, weigh all options and do the research.  Both types of colleges would provide a good education, but you need to decide which one best fits your circumstances.  As always, campus visits are extremely important and will help you get a better feel for each school.

Happy Hunting!

BY Lori Caffery