* FET College (Further Education and Training College): These colleges primarily focus on vocational and technical education and training. They offer shorter, more practical programs leading to diplomas, certificates, and sometimes associate degrees. Their emphasis is on skills directly applicable to the workplace. Research is generally minimal, if any. Think trade schools, technical colleges, or community colleges (in the US context).
* University of Technology (UoT): These universities focus on applied science, technology, and engineering. While they may offer some theoretical courses, the emphasis is on practical application and solving real-world problems. They offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, often with a strong industry partnership component. UoTs conduct research, but it's generally more applied research focused on practical outcomes rather than purely theoretical advancements.
* University: Universities are the most comprehensive type of higher education institution. They offer a broad range of academic disciplines, including arts, humanities, sciences, social sciences, engineering, and more, with a strong emphasis on both theoretical and applied knowledge. Universities typically conduct extensive research across a variety of fields, and are often considered centers of academic excellence and scholarship. They offer a full range of qualifications, from undergraduate to postgraduate degrees (bachelor's, master's, doctoral, etc.).
In short:
| Feature | FET College | University of Technology | University |
|-----------------|-------------------------------|---------------------------------|---------------------------------|
| Focus | Vocational, technical skills | Applied science, technology | Broad range of disciplines |
| Qualifications | Diplomas, certificates | Bachelor's, Master's, PhD | Bachelor's, Master's, PhD |
| Research | Minimal or none | Applied research | Extensive research |
| Program Length | Shorter | Medium to long | Medium to long |
It's important to note that these are general distinctions, and some institutions might blur the lines. For example, a university might have a strong focus on technology, and a UoT might offer some humanities courses. The specific characteristics of any individual institution will depend on its history, mission, and resources.