Most students and parents don't think of considering a community college as a path to a degree or career. Increasingly, these local institutions are becoming the choice of many high school graduates. The following are 4 reasons why you should consider a community college to begin your higher education.
1.Cost
With tuition and fees rising to an all time high, money for higher education is a problem for many families. Going to a community college can help solve this problem.
Community college tuition and fees are much lower than four year institutions. The tuition you save during the two years could actually pay for a year or more of tuition at a four year college. One study showed savings ranging from $11,000+ to $19,000+ for a public college/university to $20,000+ to $71,000+ for a private one.
If you need financial aid, it is also available at community colleges. Even if you are a part time student, you may still qualify for smaller amounts.
2. Flexible Schedule
Community colleges have schedules that are more flexible than universities or colleges. They have a variety of options which include:
*Night Classes
*Weekend Classes
*Online Classes
Most college students, today, find it necessary to work. By starting at a community college with a flexible schedule, you may be able to keep the job you have or find a better paying one.
3. Choices
If you have not decided on a career, you can try different classes that might appeal to you and set you on a particular path. At some four year institutions classes in art, pre-med, and pre-law etc., are difficult to get in to unless you have been accepted in that major.
Community colleges also offer vocational classes that four year schools do not.
*Nursing
*Police Officer
*Paramedic
*Firefighter
*Automotive Technology
*Culinary Arts
*Travel and Tourism
Classes are smaller. In some major universities undergraduate lecture hall classes may have as many as 300 students. Community colleges are generally limited to 100. Regular classes have about 35 students. You will also get a professor teaching your class. Professors at universities sometimes use teaching assistants. There are times when you won't see the professor for most or all of the semester.
4. Convenience
Since community colleges have no housing, you can live at home. While living away may sound enticing, the cost can be great. This alone may be one of the best reasons why you should consider a community college. It's a great way to save money you can use when you transfer to finish your education.
Since community colleges are located in an area you are familiar with, it's easier to get around. They also tend to have more then one campus.
If you are employed before you graduate from high school, you can keep your job. This means you won't have a gap in your income.
It's never too early to begin planning for you higher education. Whether you're a high school freshman or senior, start thinking about your future education now. You can view your local community college catalog on line. There are also other sources that will give you the information you need to attend your local community college.
Since some kind of higher education is necessary in today's world, consider the cost flexible schedules, choices and convenience when thinking about higher education. These reasons may be why you should consider a community college.
Why You Should Consider a Community College