Often times, the media or society defines college as the traditional four-year route after high school. But there are so many paths to meet the needs of a variety of learners training for countless career opportunities. Let’s think bigger. For our purposes, college can be any type of education after high school. That might include a:
- Four-year college or university.
- Two-year community college.
- Career or trade school (some Nebraska examples include cosmetology or radiologic technology).
Other options for education or training after school can include the military and apprenticeships, where an employer provides on-the-job paid training (think: auto mechanics, welding, construction, etc.). As you can see, there are many choices! Next, let’s focus on some common questions about college.
What is the difference between a university and a college?
Short answer: typically, the types of programs offered. Colleges are usually smaller in size and focus on undergraduate degrees (the first level of higher education). Universities are usually larger in size and offer expanded programs: undergraduate, graduate (the second level of higher education), and Ph.D. or doctorate programs (the third level of higher education).
Why are private colleges more expensive?
Public colleges receive state government funding (tax dollars at work!). Private colleges are not funded by the state; they rely on tuition dollars, donations, and endowments (this a large fund of money that can be invested to generate additional funds).
However, it is important to note that both types of colleges can receive student federal aid, which is money students can qualify for by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year they plan to attend college. So, individual students can pay for their private college costs utilizing this government funding. This blog will describe how to complete the FAFSA.
Do public or private colleges offer more scholarships?
While private colleges may not be receiving as much government funding, their large endowments mean they can offer larger scholarships – which is helpful, considering they are more expensive. Tuition and fees are the cost to attend class and utilize campus resources. The cost for one year of tuition at Nebraska private colleges range from nearly $13,000 up to almost $49,000. Nebraska’s public college tuition, on the other hand, range from just over $8,000 to nearly $11,000 per year.
Public community colleges are often the least expensive type of college. Nebraska’s community colleges currently charge between $3,000-$4,000 per year in tuition.
All of these colleges will offer scholarships; it’s simply a matter of what you qualify for. To have the best chance at the most scholarship options in high school, get good grades, participate in school and community activities (athletics, music, clubs – whatever you enjoy!), and volunteer.
See EducationQuest’s College Costs chart for cost details of the colleges that interest you.
Can you attend more than one college and still get a degree?
Yes, if you begin at one college and decide to move to another, you can learn how the credits you have earned from the classes you have taken will transfer to the new college. But, not all your credits may transfer so be sure to get all this information before you make the decision to change schools.
What careers require a four-year bachelor’s degree?
The Nebraska Department of Labor has identified H3 (High Wage/High Skill/High Demand) occupations. In 2024, some “hot” jobs that typically require a bachelor’s degree from a 4-year college or university include:
- Managers – $48,000 per year entry (starting) wage
- Registered Nurse – $67,000
- Software Developer – $82,000
- Accountant or Auditor – $52,000
- Financial Manager – $92,000
What careers require a two-year degree?
Some “hot” jobs that require an associate degree, certificate, or diploma from a two-year community college include:
- Truck Drivers – $42,000 per year entry wage
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) – $48,000
- Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Mechanic – $45,000
- Automotive Mechanic – $37,000
- Physical Therapist Assistant – $43,000
When you’re trying to decide what type of education or training is right for you, be sure to research what kind of certification or degree employers are looking for.
By Kristin Ageton
Check out our other blogs on this topic: