When you think about college, you may think about the typical four-year school. But there are many options to suit your particular needs.

The four main options are colleges, universities, community colleges, and technical/career/trade schools. Each one offers different types of degrees and training, and they often provide different types of support for students, have different student body sizes, and cost different amounts.

Not sure which one is right for you? Find out more below about each type of school or use this checklist to help you decide which option suits you best.

• Colleges. Four-year, or liberal arts, colleges offer full-time programs leading to bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degrees in a wide range of subjects. Some colleges offer graduate degree programs, too. Many students say the smaller campus and class size, accessible instructors, and other supports available on college campuses offer a more personal learning experience.
• Universities. Universities offer full-time bachelor's and graduate degree programs in liberal arts and science subjects. Many universities include schools for professions such as business, medicine, or law. The larger enrollments of universities, bigger classes and campuses, and range of facilities contribute to the choice of learning experiences that many students seek. Some universities have several campuses throughout a city or state.
• Community Colleges. Community colleges offer two-year associate degree programs. Some offer programs leading to certification in technical or career fields as well. Community colleges are designed with working students in mind: They cost less than four-year schools, they have convenient locations and schedules, and they allow students to attend part time. Many students start at community colleges and then transfer to four-year colleges.
• Technical/Career/Trade Schools. These schools offer programs leading to a degree, diploma, or certification in a career field such as cosmetology; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; or culinary trades. Technical schools typically include the theory behind the field, while career and trade schools focus on hands-on skills.

Public, Private, or Proprietary?

Each of these four types of schools also will be described as public, private, or propietary, which has to do with how they are funded. In general, public schools will charge you less in tuition and fees than private and proprietary schools.

• Public. These schools receive most of their money from public funds and usually charge much lower tuition to students in their area. Some public institutions give admission preference to local students. The University of the District of Columbia is the public university in Washington, DC.
• Private. Also known as independents, these nonprofit colleges and universities receive most of their funds from private sources, including sponsoring institutions such as churches. Private colleges and universities in the District of Columbia include American University, The Catholic University of America, Corcoran College of Art + Design, Gallaudet University, Georgetown University, The George Washington University, Howard University, Southeastern University, and Trinity Washington University.
• Proprietary Colleges and Universities. These for-profit institutions offer focused career training in a variety of fields and qualify for some kinds of financial aid. There are a number of proprietary options in DC.