* A college focused on professional training: This is the most common interpretation. It refers to a college that offers programs leading to careers that require specialized skills and knowledge, often requiring licensure or certification. Examples include colleges focused on:
* Healthcare: Nursing, pharmacy, medical technology, etc.
* Business: Accounting, finance, management, etc.
* Engineering: Various engineering disciplines
* Law Enforcement: Police science, criminal justice
* Education: Teacher training
These colleges might be independent institutions or part of a larger university system. They often have a strong practical component to their curriculum, including internships, fieldwork, or clinical rotations.
* A college with a strong emphasis on career preparation: This is a broader interpretation. Even colleges with liberal arts programs might emphasize career services, internships, and industry connections to help students find jobs after graduation. They may still offer a wide range of academic disciplines but prioritize career development.
* A college with a specific professional designation: Some colleges might have a name that includes "professional" (e.g., "Professional Institute of Technology") which simply reflects their branding and intended focus, not necessarily a distinct academic structure.
In short, "professional college" isn't a formally defined category. It's a descriptive term indicating a college that strongly emphasizes career preparation and often focuses on specific professional fields requiring specialized training.