A junior college, also known as a community college, is a college that offers a wide range of courses, certification programs, and Associate in Arts (also known as Associates of Arts) degrees. Many students transfer to four-year colleges in their junior year, so the school can effectively serve as the first two years of college study.
A junior college may offer certification programs that are or are not part of a four-year degree program. Many people obtain medical licenses, such as licensed vocational nursing (LVN) or radiology, which may be required to work as an X-ray technician or a sonographer. Specialty programs in auto mechanics, computer programming, business management, electrical work, or police or fire department work may also be available, depending on the school.
Most public junior colleges are the most affordable option for completing the first two years of college preparation or specializing in a field that does not require a four-year degree. The programs may be on par with, if not better than, those offered more expensive training institutions. Colleges may also provide students with weekend, evening, or online classes, allowing them to work while attending classes.
Many of these schools do not admit students based on their high school grades. This may make college a viable option for those who struggled in high school. Schools frequently require applicants to take English and math placement tests, and they frequently offer remedial courses for students who require extra help passing certain classes that are required for graduation or certification.
Four-year universities may not require SAT or ACT scores when evaluating junior college applicants. Scholarships and admissions may be based solely on college performance rather than high school transcripts, which can benefit students who struggled in high school. Some students also agree to attend a junior college in exchange for a guaranteed spot at a four-year university once the program is completed.
This type of college is a great place for many people to begin learning about different career options. Students may come from a wider range of backgrounds, and their median age may be significantly higher than at a traditional university. Many people study here to start new careers later in life.
Some high school students may need to take additional classes to qualify for more competitive universities, and a junior college may be able to help them. Students might take more advanced language or science courses, for example, to make themselves more appealing to Ivy League schools.
Furthermore, many colleges offer summer programs for younger students, as well as community enrichment programs for anyone 18 and up. A school may form a partnership with a senior center in order to provide courses or lectures on topics of interest to seniors.
At this level, the majority of instructors have a master’s degree or equivalent experience in their field. A junior college may even require job candidates to have a Ph.D. in highly competitive job markets. In contrast to many four-year schools, the emphasis is on instruction rather than publication. Instead of having to participate in seminars led teaching assistants, this often creates a more intimate learning environment for students who have direct access to their teachers.
This method of instruction may be especially beneficial to students who still require teacher assistance and guidance. Smaller classrooms may also be more beneficial and less confusing than the large lecture-style courses offered many of the top universities. Many students will attend this type of school because it is more cost-effective, particularly for those who are undecided about their major. Junior college gives students the opportunity to try out different majors before committing to one.