What are the differences between community colleges, technical colleges, combined community and technical colleges and state universities?
Technical colleges offer education for employment - courses and programs that teach specific knowledge and skills leading to particular jobs. The programs range in length from three months to two years.
Community colleges provide the first two years of a four-year college education. Graduates of community colleges can transfer to Minnesota state universities and other colleges to complete four-year degrees. Community colleges offer general education courses, occupational programs and developmental and college preparatory courses for those who need to brush up on basic skills.
Combined technical and community colleges are two-year colleges that offer a mix of technical college and community college courses and programs. These colleges offer the opportunity to start a bachelor's degree or pursue a two-year career program leading immediately to employment.
Minnesota's four-year state universities offer courses and programs leading to bachelor's master's and advanced degrees. Programs are offered in liberal arts and sciences and in professional fields.
