University vs College
The distinction between a university and a college depends on their location, as these terms hold different meanings depending on the country they are situated in. While all countries agree on the meaning of a university, interpretations of the term “college” differ. Consequently, the educational programs offered by each institution also vary based on the country’s definition. Therefore, it is essential to consider the location when using the term “college.”
What is a University?
A university, as defined by the Macmillan dictionary, is “an educational institution where students study for degrees and where academic research is done.” Universities are higher education institutions that grant academic degrees (undergraduate and postgraduate) in various subjects. The term university comes from the Latin “universitas magistrorum et scholarium,” which roughly translates to “community of teachers and scholars.” This Latin term originally referred to degree-granting institutions in Western Europe, where a form of legal organization was prevalent. In the United States, the term university was traditionally used to designate research institutions and was once reserved for research doctorate-granting institutions.
What is a College?
According to the Macmillan dictionary, a college in the United States is a place that grants students degrees. A school of this type can also be called a university if it is large enough to grant degrees in more than one subject. In the United Kingdom, a college is a place that grants students qualifications below the level of a university degree, often in the skills needed for a particular job. The term “college” is used differently worldwide. A college may be a degree-awarding tertiary educational institution, an institution within a university, an institution offering vocational courses, or a secondary school. Colleges can grant certificates or diplomas but not degrees. However, some educational institutions known as colleges have university status and can award degrees.
What is the difference between University and College?
The key differences between a university and a college include their definitions, usage of the terms, and their status and degree-awarding authority.
Key Takeaways
- A university is a higher education institution that grants academic degrees (undergraduate and postgraduate) in various subjects, while a college may be a degree-awarding tertiary educational institution, an institution within a university, an institution offering vocational courses, or a secondary school.
- In the United States and Ireland, the terms college and university are loosely interchangeable, while in the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and other Commonwealth countries, college generally refers to a part of a university and does not have degree-awarding powers in itself.
- Universities are always independent higher education institutions, while colleges can be affiliated with universities or be independent institutions that prepare students to sit as external candidates at other universities or have the authority to run courses that lead to the degrees of those universities.
