What's the difference between US colleges and universities?
New Zealanders often find the American use of the terms "colleges"
and "universities" confusing since the words are used differently
in the US. A college is a tertiary institution, not a secondary school.
While there is a distinction in meaning between the two words, Americans
tend to use the terms interchangeably. Americans also refer to both colleges
and universities as "schools" - not to be confused with
primary and secondary schools.
Generally, a university:
offers graduate degrees (master's and PhD) in addition to undergraduate
degrees
conducts and publishes research
has more than one undergraduate programme
A college:
offers post-secondary, undergraduate education in only one branch
of learning, usually the liberal arts and sciences
offers either a two or a four-year degree (not both)
may also be an administrative unit within a university that is responsible
for one branch of learning (liberal arts, engineering, architecture,
etc)
What
are classes in the US like?
At many small colleges, class size averages around 15-20 students, so
your classes often consist of a discussion between the professor and the
students. You are expected to play an active rather than a passive role.
Professors often determine a portion of the course grade based on the
quality of your class participation.
In large colleges or universities, it is more common to have large classes
(60 or more people) conducted in a traditional lecture style. Undergraduate
classes at large colleges and universities are often taught by graduate
students (known as teaching assistants) rather than by full professors.
How are universities funded in the US?
Universities in the US are either public or private. Public universities
receive a lot of their funding from the state and federal governments.
Private universities get some funding from the state and federal governments,
but most of their funding comes from private sources, generally in the
form of donations.
What does high school graduation mean and do I have to sit bursary exams?
To be admitted to a US university you must prepare as if you were planning
to enrol in a New Zealand university. You must also sit the SAT
or ACT test. To most US universities
the term "high school graduation" is equivalent to completing Year 13
and passing NCEA Level 3. Because of timing issues with the application
process, US universities will be evaluating the strength of your application
based primarily on your results at the end of Year 12. They will, however,
expect you to finish Year 13 while maintaining your academic performance.
