What is the difference between college and university, and which option is right for you? Find out with our quick guide.
Further vs Higher Education
College is an example of Further Education – it’s an option for study after secondary school. Further Education is often practical and vocational in nature (see below).
University is an example of Higher Education. It’s an academic form of study you can do after secondary school or college (or at any point in your life if you want to return to studies after being in the world of work).
Academic vs Vocational
University degrees are typically academic areas of study, focused on practice and theory. College courses in UK are designed to teach students to reach a certain level of skills and knowledge in a particular field of interest which makes them able to get a job in the near future or gain academic preparation to enter university. College qualifications typically help you build more practical skills that you can directly use in the world of work. They are less likely to feature exams.
Qualifications
Both college and university students end up with a qualification on successful completion of their course. Universities provide undergraduate and graduate degrees, but you can still attend college to do a foundation degree that will prepare you for university.
Whichever route you choose, you are likely to end up with a nationally recognised qualification that will help you develop as a person and find meaningful work you will enjoy.
What about student fees?
Student fees for universities tend to be higher, and most university students end up taking out student loans.
College course fees tend to be lower, and with more opportunity for flexible, part-time and online study so that you can fit college into your life and potentially earn as you learn.
Course duration
Further education courses in college usually last for one to two years of full-time study, although they often offer part-time and flexible study options. An undergraduate university degree often takes three years of full-time study to complete – possibly four, if you are completing a Year in Industry programme with an employer as part of your degree.
See more school and college advice See all student advice
