In the US, there many types of universities and colleges. In fact, the large variety in the US higher education system makes it attractive to students from all over the world.  Yet, some of the differences may be confusing. At Vela Education, we aim to make all aspects of US university admissions clear! Below, we have summarised the types of schools you can attend in the US.

Small Liberal Arts College: these schools are unique within the global education landscape. Though the “liberal arts” moniker might be confusing, this just means students are expected to take courses across disciplines: in the humanities, hard sciences, social sciences, math, and art. At these schools, you will still choose a major (think course). The phrase “liberal arts” has made some parents and students think that these schools may not have robust science or engineering programmes—that is not true! Many small liberal arts colleges have programmes in the hard science which rival large research universities. In particular, we recommend you research Bowdoin, Pomona, Harvey Mudd, Grinnell, Carleton, Amherst, Williams, Bucknell, and Swarthmore  if you want a small school that also has excellent STEM resources. 

Small liberal arts schools do offer an advantage not found at their larger counterparts; these schools focus solely on undergraduate education. Faculty devote their time to educating undergraduates rather than splitting their attention between undergraduates and graduate students. These schools tend to have smaller class sizes which also help facilitate mentor/mentee relationships between faculty and students. Another hallmark of small liberal arts colleges is residential life. These schools have gorgeous campuses and residential programmes that foster close community ties. If that is important to you, please consider applying to these excellent schools.

Specialty University: though the liberal arts model is popular at both small and large schools, there are still US universities that specialise in Engineering, Technology, Applied or Natural Sciences, or Fine Arts, and Dramatic and Musical Conservatories. These schools may be the best fit for a student who is clear about what they want to study and are keen to focus on their professional goals.  Applications to specialty universities tend to have unique components. Art schools will require a portfolio and a statement of purpose that is different from the personal statement you would write for other schools. Talent auditions are often required for both dramatic and musical conservatories. Engineering and other technical schools may have additional testing requirements. Working with a professional advisor can be a real asset when applying to these schools.

Research University: these universities are more similar to UK and European universities. Essentially, most international universities are research universities. A research university has a variety of objectives beyond educating undergraduates. In fact, their main purpose is to generate public research and train the next generation of scholars in masters and doctoral programmes. Their rankings are more dependent on their research agendas and thus more time and resources are funneled there. There is still a great deal of diversity within this category of school! Some research universities have also invested heavily in undergraduate education—Upenn, Dartmouth, and Brown are three research schools that also pay significant attention to the needs of their undergraduates. Speak with an expert advisor to determine which research school might best meet your needs.

Women’s College: there are very few single-sex universities outside of the US. However, there are women’s colleges in the US that are highly selective and offer a first-rate education. Also, many of these schools have close “sibling” relationships with other colleges so students of all genders can take classes at these colleges and the neighboring schools. If this style of school is of interest, please research Barnard, Bryn Mawr, Smith, Mount Holyoke, and Wellesley.  

Private Institution: the difference between private and public universities in the US higher education system can also be confusing. Most international universities are public; they are funded by the government and their policies are shaped and created by external national bodies. In the US, there are private institutions which receive no direct government funding; they also create their own policies regarding admissions and hiring faculty. These schools are often smaller than public institutions and they may also have higher tuition and related fees. However, they often have more resources in terms of scholarships and financial aid for their students. 

Public Institution: these universities are funded by US state and federal governments. Thus, fees are lower for students who reside in those states. These schools are designed to provide a high quality and cost-effective education for in-state students. However, some of these schools rival their private counterparts in terms of quality, selectivity, and international reputation. UCLA, UC Berkeley, the University of Virginia, and the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill are all public institutions that attract students from around the world.

If you have any questions about the differences among US universities and colleges, please reach out to us! A strategic consultation is a great way to find out which kind of school may be best for you.