What's the Difference Between a College and a University?

Generically, we often talk about “applying to college.” But it is important to note that some institutions of higher learning are called “colleges”, others are called “universities”, and still others are called “institutes.” So, what’s the difference?

Universities vs. Colleges

Universities typically:

• Offer numerous undergraduate AND graduate degrees
• Are larger institutions
• Are organized into multiple “schools” or “colleges” within them (College of Business, College of Engineering, College of Arts & Sciences, School of Management, etc.)

Colleges can mean two things:

1. Standalone undergraduate institution - smaller independent schools focusing primarily on bachelor's (undergraduate) degrees
2. A division within a university - one of several colleges that make up the university (ex. University of Texas College of Business, College of Engineering, etc.)

Here's the confusing part: When you apply to a large university, you often apply to a *specific college* within it. So you'd say "I'm applying to the College of Engineering at The Ohio State University."

Note: Some schools are called "Institutes of Technology" (MIT, Rose Hulman, Georgia Tech, CalTech). These function like universities, and while historically focused on STEM, now often contain additional majors as well.

What about Liberal Arts?

“Liberal arts” is an educational philosophy, not a type of school. It means getting a broad education across humanities, sciences, social sciences, and arts—developing critical thinking and communication skills rather than training for one specific job.

You'll find liberal arts education in two places:

Standalone Liberal Arts Colleges

Examples: Williams, Amherst, Swarthmore, Pomona

• Small (1,500-5,000 students)
• Undergraduate only (or primarily)
• Most do not have pre-professional programs like engineering or nursing
• Small classes, close professor relationships
• Most are actually "Liberal Arts and Sciences" colleges

Within Universities: College of Liberal Arts of College of Arts & Sciences

• The liberal arts division within a larger university
• Sits alongside Engineering, Business, Nursing, etc.
• Note: Some universities split this into separate colleges (College of Liberal Arts AND College of Natural Sciences)
• Always check how your schools organize these!

Key difference: Universities offer liberal arts PLUS pre-professional programs. Liberal arts colleges typically offer ONLY the liberal arts approach, although some re starting to offer business degrees or partnerships with other engineering colleges.