Two year colleges are private institutions that provide various opportunities for students who want additional education beyond high school. Community colleges are public two-year institutions giving multiple opportunities for students who wish to have further education beyond high school. Students may elect certificate programs that offer specialized training and instruction, Associate degree programs that can lead to a terminal two-year degree or a transfer option to a four-year institution. Students with a certificate will be eligible for specific jobs. Those who have earned Associate's Degrees will be eligible for immediate employment or the opportunity to transfer to a four-year college.

Both community colleges, such as NOVA and private two-year colleges, are similar to four-year colleges with respect to admissions policies, residence facilities, and on-campus activities—the successful completion of a two-year program results in an Associate degree.

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Community Colleges

Their objective is to offer programs that are financially and geographically accessible to the local community.

Admissions

• open admissions policy—high school diploma or equivalent is accepted
• no minimum grade point average
• SATs and ACTs are not required
• placement tests are given at the time of enrollment (The results of the tests determine the appropriate level of courses a student should take.)
• register early for classes after talking with an advisor

Terminal Programs

• designed to meet the increasing need for workers in occupational and technical fields
• prepare students for immediate employment
• result in either a certificate of completion or an Associate degree

Transfer Programs

• include first- and second-year courses in arts and sciences and pre-professional programs
• meet standards acceptable for transfer to four-year colleges (However, the student is responsible for determining which credits will transfer to the receiving institution.)
• program completion results in an Associate degree

Advantages of attending community colleges

• lower tuition fees
• no expense for room and board
• flexibility to pursue education while employed
• opportunity to use the two years at community college to improve chances of getting into a more selective four-year college