What is the difference between a college and a university?
A university is typically a higher education institution that offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Universities tend to be large institutions with multiple buildings on campus. They usually have multiple schools within their systems, such as the School of Arts, the School of Sciences, and others. Universities usually offer a broad scope of majors and programs.
Colleges are usually smaller in size and they tend not to offer as many majors and programs as universities. Typically colleges do not grant graduate degrees, however, there are many exceptions to that rule. Many colleges that offer Master's programs choose to leave the word 'college' in their names out of respect for their traditions and history.
Choices for colleges and universities:
In-state/Out-of-state
The State University System of Florida (SUSF or SUS) is a system of twelve public universities in the U.S. state of Florida.
There are almost 4,000 colleges and universities in the United States
Public/Private
Florida has 40 public colleges (12 public universities and 28 community/state colleges) and over 50 private colleges to choose from
2 year/4 year
The State University System of Florida (SUSF or SUS) consists of twelve public universities across the state. As of 2018, more than 341,000 students were enrolled in these universities. Alongside the 12 public universities, the Florida College System, which comprises 28 community and state colleges, forms a key part of Florida's public higher education system.
Florida State University (FSU)
New College of Florida (NCF)
28 Florida public colleges offer 2-year, 4-year, and certification programs.
Each of the public colleges has articulation agreements with the SUS universities for potential transfer after the AA degree has been earned.
A student may begin at a local community or state college, save money, and transfer to one of our public universities to earn their bachelor's degree.
Each school has different benchmarks for admission. Know where you stand.
Check out Florida's public university Admissions Matrix (below) to view stats on the mid-50% of students admitted from the Class of 2024 and more (updated September 2024).
(You may click on the image to print a copy.)
STEP 1: CHOOSING A COLLEGE - CONSIDER THESE FACTORS
Use this link to think about what factors are important to you in selecting a college:
Majors/Academic Programs
Size: Small, Medium, Large
Location/Campus Environment
Cost: Paying for College
Campus Life/Activities
Selectivity: How Hard is it to Get In?
STEP 3: RESEARCH AND COMPARE
Use this link to the resources below to learn more about the schools on your list:
College Comparison Worksheet
Visiting Colleges
Resources-Books
Resources-Online
Resources-People
College Websites
STEP 4: FINALIZE YOUR LIST
Refine your list by sorting and categorizing. This link will help you do the following:
Balance your list!
Safety
Target
Reach
Demonstrate interest