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Minnesota State Colleges and Universities: System: Information for Students

Choosing a college

It's never too early to start planning for college. There are many different types of colleges, so you need to think about what programs you are interested in, do some research and visit campuses to see which type fits best with your personality, budget and career plans.

Check out the Go Places Guidebook

Click the link above to learn more about Go Places, a guidebook to all Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. Go Places contains college and university profile information, admissions information and convenient academic program grids.

Which type of college is right for you?

  • Technical colleges are two-year state colleges that teach knowledge and skills leading to specific careers. You can complete a program in two years or less and be ready for a job.

  • Community colleges are two-year colleges that enable you to start on a bachelor's degree. You can take your first two years at a community college, then transfer to a four-year university to finish. Or you can take a career program leading directly to a job.

  • Combined community and technical colleges enable you to start on a bachelor's degree and transfer after two years, or you can enroll in a technical program to learn skills that lead directly to a career.

  • State universities are four-year institutions offering bachelor's, master's and advanced degrees. Most offer on-campus housing and a full range of student activities.

Additional Resources

College and university admissions contacts and Web sites

View a map of our colleges and universities with links to institution profiles

Glossary of college terms that every student should know

Tips for campus visits

Tips for Parents

Helpful Web sites

Last updated: 10/07

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