Many students and parents assume that a university is automatically better or higher-ranked than a college. That is a misconception. In the United States, whether an institution calls itself a "college" or a "university" says very little about the quality of education, the value of the degree, or the athletic level. So, what is the actual difference, and what does it mean for you as a prospective student-athlete?
The short answer: a matter of size, not quality
In daily conversation, Americans use the words college and university interchangeably. A student attending Harvard University will almost always say: “I’m going to college.”
The distinction is not about academic quality or the value of your degree, but rather about the size and structural organization of the institution:
- College: Although many colleges now also offer graduate degrees, they are generally known for their strong focus on undergraduate education and smaller class sizes.
- University: Usually a larger institution made up of multiple colleges or schools (e.g., College of Business, College of Engineering Universities generally offer a broader range of undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs than many colleges.
For international student-athletes, the most important takeaway is that both colleges and universities offer world-class academics, varsity sports programs, and substantial athletic scholarships.
What defines a college in the US?
A college is generally a smaller institution where undergraduate teaching and personal attention take center stage.
Many smaller colleges are Liberal Arts Colleges. At a liberal arts college, students take a broad range of general education courses during their first two years before specializing in their chosen academic major. This approach helps students develop critical thinking, communication and analytical skills.
Key features of a college:
- Personalized learning: Smaller class sizes (often 15 to 25 students) mean direct interaction with professors, greater class participation, and personalized guidance.
- Undergraduate focus: Because the primary focus is on bachelor’s degree students, research opportunities and faculty attention go directly to undergraduates rather than graduate assistants or PhD candidates.
- Compact campus: Campuses are often more consolidated, making it quick and easy to move between lectures, training facilities, and dorms.
What defines a university in the US?
A university is typically a larger institution offering a comprehensive range of academic programs across various departments. Nearly all universities offer undergraduate, graduate (Master’s), and doctorate (PhD) degrees, and many operate as major research centers.
In practice, the line between many colleges and universities has blurred over time. Boston College and Boston University are prime examples. Despite their different titles, both institutions offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, compete in NCAA Division I athletics, and rank among the most prestigious institutions in the United States.
Key features of a university:
- Broad academic selection: Due to their size, universities often offer dozens of specialized majors, minor concentrations, and dual-degree tracks.
- Extensive campus amenities: Larger universities frequently feature massive athletic stadiums, multiple campus libraries, state-of-the-art training facilities, and vibrant student life activities.
- More options, but not necessarily “better”: While a larger university offers vast resources, it also comes with large lecture halls. For many student-athletes, the smaller, supportive environment of a college is a better personal fit.
Does the difference affect your athletic scholarship?
No. Whether an institution is named a college or a university does not affect the scholarship availability or the dollar amount you can receive.
Athletic scholarship rules are determined by governing sports associations (such as the NCAA, NAIA, or NJCAA) and the division in which the team competes (e.g., NCAA Division I vs. Division II), not by the school’s name.
For instance, Boston College and Boston University both compete in NCAA Division I. Both programs abide by the exact same NCAA scholarship limits and recruiting rules. The same applies to institutions across Division II, Division III, and the NAIA.
Which type of institution is the best fit for you?
When finding your ideal fit in the US, don’t focus on the label college or university. Focus on finding an environment that aligns with your personal, athletic, and academic goals.
Key factors to evaluate include:
- Academic Major: Does the school offer the specific bachelor’s degree program you want to pursue?
- Athletic Fit: Does your athletic level, experience and highlight video match the roster needs, and will you have an opportunity to earn playing time?
- Campus Size: Do you thrive in a tight-knit classroom of 20 students, or are you comfortable in a large university lecture hall with 200 peers?
- Total Cost & Aid: How does the total financial package (athletic scholarship + academic merit aid) fit your family’s budget?
Need help finding the right school fit?
Navigating the US higher education system with its various terminology, divisions, and school types can feel overwhelming. At Made Scholarships, we evaluate the complete picture: matching your athletic performance, academic background, preferred campus environment, and scholarship requirements.
Curious which colleges and universities best match your profile? We’d be happy to help you explore your options during a free introductory consultation.