College or University: Which One's Right For You?

You don't have to decide on one or the other. Why not both??

As you move on to the next stage of your life and education, the question of whether you should go to college or university will come up again and again. One of the main points to evaluate is what career path you want to take — however, there are many other things that will and should be considered.

We've compiled a list of some of the most significant aspects to consider while deciding whether to attend college or university — or both!

College

Colleges offer students the opportunity to train for the career they want starting from their first day on campus. The training and instruction students receive is more hands-on in nature, which means graduates are ready to enter the workforce upon completion of their program.

Colleges offer a number of credentials for students, including bachelor's degrees, diplomas, and graduate certificates. Typically, a certificate program would last six months to a year, while a diploma program will take two to three years, and a degree program can take three years to complete.

Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning has full-time and part-time diploma and certificate programs.

University

If you prefer a more academic-based learning style, university may be for you. Universities grant undergraduate (bachelor's) degrees and the majority also grant graduate (master's and doctorate) degrees. Undergraduate degrees are typically completed in three to four years. Most graduate students must first complete an undergrad degree, too.

Many universities also provide professional programs including medicine, dentistry, and law. Although some career paths require university education to complete, many of these career paths can also start with a college diploma. Humber College offers more than 200+ transfer options into degree programs.

Both college and university

A polytechnic education is a clear third choice between college and university. Polytechnics combine deep, theoretical learning with hands-on, practical experience. Humber's polytechnic approach, combines a unique mix and helps set students up for success in both their personal and professional lives.

This approach is well-established and highly valued in Canada and around the world. It emphasizes hands-on learning and practical experience, and can lead you to a wide variety of pathways, such as applied research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and much more.

All in all, whether you choose to start your education at college or university, both have the ability to get you a job in the field you're passionate about. Ultimately, you decide which one fits your personality, your interests, and your financial and career goals in the best way.