Community Colleges:
* Focus: Primarily offer associate's degrees (two-year programs), vocational certificates, and career training programs. They often provide a pathway to a four-year university.
* Curriculum: Concentrates on foundational courses and career-specific skills. Generally less specialized than university programs.
* Degree Options: Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and various certificates.
* Cost: Significantly less expensive than universities, both in tuition and fees. Often receive substantial public funding.
* Admission Requirements: Generally have open enrollment policies, meaning they admit almost anyone who applies, regardless of academic record.
* Campus Life: Often smaller and less focused on campus life outside of academics than universities. Fewer residential options.
* Research: Minimal to no emphasis on research.
Universities:
* Focus: Offer a broad range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across many disciplines. Emphasis on academic research and scholarship.
* Curriculum: Wide range of subjects, specialization within major fields of study, and advanced courses.
* Degree Options: Bachelor's degrees (BA, BS, etc.), Master's degrees (MA, MS, etc.), Doctorate degrees (PhD, EdD, etc.).
* Cost: Much more expensive than community colleges.
* Admission Requirements: More selective admission processes, often requiring high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and sometimes letters of recommendation.
* Campus Life: Often have extensive campus life, including student organizations, athletics, and residential living.
* Research: Significant emphasis on research, often with faculty and students involved in major projects.
In short: Community colleges are typically more affordable, accessible, and focused on career preparation or transferring to a four-year university. Universities offer a wider range of advanced degrees and are typically more expensive and selective. Many students use community colleges as a stepping stone to a university degree, saving money on the first two years of their education.