Community Colleges; Who are they for?

If you ask most high school students, and some adults, what differentiates community colleges from other colleges and universities, most will talk about the time it takes to earn a degree and the fact that most community colleges do not offer student residence halls. While those answers are correct, they do not tell the whole story.

The biggest difference between two and four year colleges is that the two year colleges focus on the needs of students, including working adults, whose needs are not being fully met by four year colleges. And, as intended, the creation of community colleges has made it possible, as have online degree programs, for more students than ever to continue their educations beyond high school.

Because of their modest cost, community colleges attract both large numbers of adults and first generation college students of traditional age. At most community colleges, the average age of enrolled students is between 23-27. And, generally, community colleges enroll a significantly higher percentage of minority students than do four-year colleges.

But, it is not just cost that makes community colleges attractive to students. Community colleges tend to practice open admissions, meaning that they welcome all students who have completed high school or earned an equivalency degree. Therefore, applicants need not present standardized test scores, recommendations, or essays. Applying for admission to a community college is a very simple process.

Four year colleges and universities, particularly those which are most selective, require applicants to submit their admissions applications and supporting credentials well before the beginning of the semester in which they hope to enroll. At a community college, enrolling the day before classes begin is unlikely to be a problem for a student willing to spend a little time in line.

Generally, community colleges admit all applicants. But, before beginning in some degree programs, it may be necessary to complete courses in prescribed subject areas or otherwise demonstrate program-related proficiency.

A big community college selling point is that community colleges focus on offering classes at times and places most convenient for working adults. Only online colleges offer more flexibility.

Another value of community colleges is their ability to offer vocationally related courses or programs for students who seek training but may not wish to complete a degree program. In fact, although many people think of community colleges as the first stop on a journey to earn a bachelors degree, only about 25% of community college students subsequently enroll in a four-year college or university.

In general, community colleges are likely to be a good choice for students who are not confident about their academic skills, students whose schedules do not allow them to enroll in day classes, and students whose educational goals do not include a bachelors degree. Others, as well, may find that a community college meets their needs; for many students, it's an inexpensive option worth thinking about.

Article Source: http://www.articles.com.mx

Daniel Z. Kane is a university dean who has also worked in a community college. If you are considering an online college or online education, you'll find his websites very helpful.

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