College vs. University: Things You Should Know

Posted on Monday, January 28th, 2019

College or university? Now that’s a tough decision. Here’s what you should consider before making up your mind:

Your learning style

If you like practical experience, simulated work environments, and smaller classes, then we have news for you: college is calling your name. College can offer a more practical, industry-oriented education. You learn about the industry you’re passionate about from real industry professionals. With smaller classrooms, caring professors, and real world experience, College will set you up for success.

University is great if you’re more of a theory-oriented learner. There can be a lot of reading and studying, which may be good for you. If you don’t mind being in a class with hundreds of other people, then university is something to consider. Regardless of where you choose to go, you’ll learn loads of neat stuff and have a ton of fun doing it.

Getting to the good stuff

Ranging from three years to ten, it’s no secret that it can take a long time to complete a university program. As incredibly thorough and in-depth as that is, you may not feel like sitting around in school for what seems like forever — we bet you want to work. With a college education, you can make a great salary and start your career more quickly.

College has a bunch of different types and lengths of programs; from one year certificates, two year diplomas, three year advanced diplomas, Honours degrees, and graduate certificates. This means that you can get to the good stuff and start working in your field faster! It’s also reassuring that 84,1% of Algonquin College alumni were working in their field within six months of graduation..

The best of both worlds

If you still can’t make up your mind: then don’t. Algonquin College offers over a dozen Honours degree programs, ranging from commerce to robotics, building science to interior design – so there’s something for everyone! Most of the Honours degree programs that Algonquin College offers also have paid co-op terms where students can earn upwards of $10,000 per work-term.

Algonquin College also has tons of articulation agreements, which means you can often use your college credits towards a university program, saving you even more time if you decide to pursue a degree down the road.

Too expensive? We can help

Think about how much post-secondary education is going to cost. College is often less expensive than university because programs tend to be shorter and tuition is often less costly. Algonquin College offers a Tuition Fee Estimator that will give you a good idea of how much you’ll actually be spending. If the total’s looking a little steep, don’t sweat it. There are loads of places you can turn to for financial aid.

A final thought

All in all, the choice is up to you. Only you know what benefits you most. Our (somewhat biased) opinion is only here to guide you. Both university and college teach you how to do amazing things. Wherever you end up, your experience is going to be life-changing, and we know you’ll rock it.

 

Chelsie McHugh is a third-year Advertising and Marketing Communications student. She’s a funny, fiery redhead with a passion for writing.


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