post secondary education types

What is a Post-Secondary Degree, and Do I Need One?

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Part of the American dream has always been to send your children to college so they could obtain their degree. Despite a struggling economy, the last decade has seen record numbers of people seeking higher education. In 2019 alone, nearly 20 million Americans enrolled in colleges and universities to receive their degree, and experts are expecting this number to increase over the coming years .

And it’s not just wealthy families that are sending their kids to college. Recent surveys have found more low- and middle-income families are making higher education a priority.

If you have been wondering about getting a post-secondary degree – what it was exactly and if it was something that could help you earn more – be sure to read this entire article , because I’m going to share absolutely everything you need to know about post-secondary degrees.

Let’s get started!

What is a Post-Secondary Degree?

To keep things simple, a post-secondary degree is one that a person can obtain once they’ve received their high school diploma or GED. Post-secondary degrees may come from a community college, vocational school, an undergraduate college or a university.

These degrees show prospective employers that you have taken the time to receive specialized skills and knowledge. Beyond helping you stand out from other candidates come hiring time, post-secondary degrees can help you earn more – and in some cases – quite a bit more!

Types of Post-Secondary Degrees

As I mentioned, a post-secondary degree lets prospective employers know you have obtained specialized skills and information. But there are different types – or levels – of post-secondary degrees, and each one connotes a different level of expertise.

Associates Degree

Associates degrees are typically obtained in two years at either a community college or vocational/technical school. These degrees offer students a higher understanding of different professional settings and prepares them for entry-level work.

An associates degree can also be counted as the first two years of a 4-year bachelor’s degree. Many students, particularly adult students, will obtain their associates degree in order to get their foot in the door of their chosen field. Later, they can use this degree to jumpstart their next leg of education and obtain their bachelor’s degree, which will provide further employment and earnings opportunities.

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Bachelor’s Degree

When we hear the term “college degree,” most people think of the classic 4-year bachelor’s degree. This is the most popular post-secondary degree people earn.

Bachelor’s programs provide a more holistic educational experience because they not only teach employable skills, but also academic subjects that help sharpen the students’ critical thinking skills.

While it typically takes students four years to earn a bachelor’s degree, it can sometimes take six or even eight years to complete. This is usually due to financial reasons, however. If you’re interested in obtaining a bachelor’s degree, be sure to read this article all the way to the end because I’m going to share how you can earn your bachelor’s degree for less money and even cut your time in half!

Master’s Degree

Once you have obtained your bachelor’s degree you may choose to go on and pursue a master’s degree. These programs allow students to gain even more expertise around a particular field of study. Depending on the program, master’s degrees typically take an additional two to three years to complete. Once obtained, these degrees can help you advance your career into management roles and earn much higher salaries.

Obtaining a doctorate degree is the highest academic achievement a person can attain. Holders of Ph.Ds. are usually in top positions in their field and earn much more. How much? Keep reading, I’m about to let you in on some salary secrets !

The Benefits of a Post-Secondary Education

At this point you hopefully understand what a post-secondary degree is. But you may still be wondering if obtaining one of these degrees is worth the time and cost.

The following are just some of the benefits of earning a post-secondary degree.

Higher income

I have been alluding to the fact that obtaining a higher degree usually leads to greater earning potential. According to a  new report  from the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce (CEW), those who have obtained their post-secondary degree can expect to earn quite a bit more than those with only a high school diploma.

Of course, when it comes to earning potential, other factors come into play, such as field of study, occupation and location of your employment. So for instance, someone with a master’s of fine art degree may not earn as much as an engineer with only a bachelor’s degree.

Having said that, surveys taken over the years, including this recent one, have found certain generalized statements, such as those with even an associates degree can expect to earn 20% more than those with a high school diploma or GED.

Those with bachelor’s degrees can expect to earn between 35% and 85% more than those with only a high school diploma, while those with master’s degrees and Ph.Ds. can earn between 85% and 100% more than those with only a high school diploma.

So, if you are someone who is looking to advance your career and start earning more, getting a post-secondary degree makes a lot of sense!

Better Employee Benefits

You may not know this, but jobs that require you to have a bachelor’s degree or higher typically offer better job benefits. For instance, you may find your employer offers healthcare coverage, retirement plans, paid time off and other awesome perks.

More Career Options

It’s simple really: the higher you go with your education, the more career opportunities are available to you. While someone with an associates degree will be able to seek entry-level employment, someone with a master’s degree or Ph. D. will fill the highest positions and earn the highest salary.

Having said that, I want to make it clear that master’s degrees and Ph. Ds. are not necessary to have a rewarding and lucrative career. Many people have the career of their dreams and earn a great salary by earning a bachelor’s degree.

Job Security

If you’ve been in the job market over the last decade, you know that when the economy struggles, employers need to make cuts. Without question, those employees who have the most skills and expertise offer the most value to their employers and therefor have greater job security.

Job Satisfaction

We spend eight hours a day (or more) five days a week (or more) at our jobs. That’s a lot of time dedicated to something you may not like doing. Life just feels better when we love our work. Often, the careers that bring those most meaning and purpose into our lives, such as those in healthcare, science or education, require a post-secondary degree.

This isn’t by any means an exhaustive list of benefits, but these give you an idea of why you may seriously want to consider obtaining your post-secondary degree.

Cons of a Post-Secondary Education

Of course, to decide if a post-secondary education is right for you, you’ll also want to take into consideration a couple of cons, namely:

• It’s Expensive!

Obtaining a college degree is a definite financial commitment. And when you hear about students graduating with a mountain of student loan debt, it can stop you from following your dreams.

There are other common ways to pay for college such as applying for grants and scholarships. Unfortunately, what many students don’t realize is, this endeavor often takes a lot of time with no real payoff. There are only so many grants and scholarships to go around, and so most people will waste hours applying and never see any financial help.

Fear not – there is a simple way to save money toward the cost of college tuition, and I’m about to share that with you in just a moment.

Traditional College Degrees are Hard to Obtain for Adult Students

If you’re a working adult with family responsibilities, it can be next to impossible for you to put your life on hold so that you can move to another state to attend college for four years! Even attempting to take evening classes at your local community college can be a challenge when you have a growing family.

Without question, these two cons are why so many adults give up their pursuit of higher education. And that’s too bad because as we’ve seen, earning a post-secondary degree can be life changing!

Well, the good news is, there is any easy fix for these two problems. Earn your post-secondary degree online!

Can I Really Earn My Post-Secondary Degree Online?

Yes, you really can. In fact, according to one recent article in US News, over 6 million students have found earning their college degree online to be the fastest and easiest way to do it!

Here are some of the main benefits of earning your post-secondary degree online:

It’s More Affordable

Traditional college tuition can cost tens of thousands of dollars. It’s getting harder and harder for the average person to be able to afford this.

An online education, on the other hand, costs just a fraction of a typical education. You see, a physical brick and mortar school has a lot of operating expenses, and those expenses get passed onto you, the student.

Online degrees don’t have these same operating expenses and so you can save a ton. In addition, OnlineDegree.com can help you find even better ways to save. We’ve partnered with accredited colleges and universities across the country that not only offer online courses, they also offer upfront tuition discounts.

And as if that isn’t incredible enough, OnlineDegrees.com offers our students FREE classes for credit. You read that right! Take as many FREE classes as you’d like, then apply those later toward your degree. We’ll connect you with those programs that will accept these credits, thereby saving you EVEN MORE money and helping you earn your degree in far less time!

Hey there win/win!

If you’re a working adult raising a young family, you’ll be happy to know that earning your degree online offers a lot of necessary flexibility. Real life can often get in the way of your evening or weekend classes. Your boss may ask you to stay late, or your kid may get sick.

When you earn your degree online, you study when and where is most convenient for YOU. Set your own schedule and never have to worry about missing work or an important family event ever again!

Adult Friendly

Many institutions that offer online degree programs go out of their way to be adult friendly . This means in addition to being more flexible and affordable, these programs also do things like waive the need to submit SAT or ACT scores and also have open admissions. With open admissions, you can sign up for a post-secondary degree 24/7 365. You DON’T have to try and get your application package in by a specific date like most traditional colleges require.

Are You Ready to Get Started with Your Post-Secondary Degree?

I hope this article has answered any questions you may have had about post-secondary degrees. Without question, earning a post-secondary degree can help you build a rewarding career that offers numerous opportunities and a great salary.

And now you know you can earn this degree online far faster and more affordably than you ever thought possible!

OnlineDegree.com is 100% free for you to use . We provide you the tools to meet your education goals so you can learn your way to a more satisfying and prosperous life. By using our Smartplan , you can easily find ways to save time and money in just a few mouse clicks.

Our Smartplan will help you find:

• FREE courses you can take for credit
• Available tuition discounts
• Schools that are “adult friendly” and offer flexible enrollments and course schedules
• Schools that don’t require SAT or ACT scores
• And much more!

It only takes two minutes to sign up and get started on your journey toward earning your post-secondary degree and a brighter future .

What are you waiting for? Get started today .

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About the author, grant aldrich.

What Is Post-Secondary Education In The USA: Meaning, Purpose, Types & More

Higher education has become an important part of many people’s lives. It gives people the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills to help them in their careers and lives. Hence, many people feel excited and ready to begin their post-secondary education journey.

This is great news because it means plenty of options for students to get the education they need to succeed in today’s economy. However, post-secondary education in the USA is also a major challenge. 

In this article, you’ll learn more about post-secondary education, the challenges, the types of post-secondary education available, and some of the benefits of pursuing a degree.

Let’s get started.

What is a post-secondary education?

Higher education has long been the key to success in the United States. It allows students to pursue their dreams, connect with others, and gain valuable knowledge and skills. 

And thanks to post-secondary education offered by colleges and universities, millions of people have achieved their goals.

Post-secondary education (also known as tertiary education) is a type of schooling that typically happens after high school. It offers specialized training in a variety of subjects, as well as opportunities for on-the-job experience.  

Post-secondary education provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career or further their education. 

Many post-secondary institutions offer a variety of courses and programs that can help students find a path in life.

What are the major benefits of post-secondary education in the USA?

Post-secondary education in the USA is one of the best investments you can make in your future. 

Post-secondary education has many benefits, whether a 4-year degree, a 2-year diploma, or a trade school program. Here are just some of them: 

• A chance to learn and grow in an environment that stimulates and supports your intellectual growth
• Develop strong personal relationships with your peers, professors, and mentors
• The opportunity to gain lifelong learning and knowledge will be valuable in any field
• A chance to explore different disciplines and learn new ways of thinking
• Accessing world-class resources can help you achieve your academic and career goals
• A degree from a top university boosts your career prospects and imparts intangible skills and knowledge that are valuable in the workplace

The USA has one of the best post-secondary education in the world. Not only is it a diverse country in terms of colleges and universities, but the quality of education here is unparalleled. 

MPI reports that almost 1.1 million post-secondary education international students were studying in the USA during the 2019-2020 academic year.

The United States offers a unique opportunity for students to explore their interests and learn from some of the world’s top educators.

Differences between a secondary and post-secondary education

There are many differences between secondary and post-secondary education. For one, a post-secondary education consists of a four-year degree, while a secondary school consists of grades 6-12 in the USA. 

Post-secondary education is typically geared toward students who have graduated from high school. In contrast, a secondary school may have students who eventually graduate from high school and others who will not. 

In addition, secondary schools are more lenient with what they expect their students to be able to do. On the other hand, post-secondary institutions require more rigorous courses and assessments throughout the program. 

Types of post-secondary education in the USA

1. Colleges and universities

In the United States, post-secondary education is any type of education a student takes after high school. A college or university is often the most common type of post-secondary institution. 

To attend, you must apply and be accepted to the school you want to attend before enrolling. You’ll need to fill out an application form and pay a fee. 

Colleges and universities offer many different types of programs for students to choose from. A college usually offers certificate and diploma programs. Colleges generally have a more direct career focus when comparing college programs to university programs.

Universities may be either public or private institutions, with major research capabilities, and often focus on graduate study at the doctoral level or beyond.

2. Community colleges

The community college (or junior college) is a public institution that offers two-year associate degree programs. Additionally, they offer vocational and technical programs.

Students at community colleges can earn a diploma in half the time since they only have to complete the general education requirements that colleges require.

Furthermore, community colleges offer students a wide range of courses and are typically less expensive than most universities.

This type of education is ideal for anyone who wants to start with something more affordable and flexible before committing to a major in school or at work.

3. Vocational or technical schools

Vocational and technical schools offer programs in various industries, including healthcare, business management, education, and culinary arts. 

These programs are designed to provide hands-on training and skills that can be put to use immediately after graduation. 

Vocation schools also offer instruction in automotive technology, HVAC installation , plumbing , and electrician training . 

Students who want to learn from some of the best instructors in their field are well advised to enroll in this type of post-secondary education.

Challenges of post-secondary education in the USA 

In the United States, post-secondary education is often the key to success. But despite the ever-growing cost of tuition, only some can afford college. 

It’s no secret that the cost of post-secondary education in America is extraordinarily high. Tuition ranges from $4,000 to $32,000 for public universities and over $50,000 for private universities.

Many students struggle to independently cover tuition, room and board, textbooks, and other expenses. And even if they manage to do so, many are still left with a mountain of debt they must repay throughout their lifetime. 

Fortunately, there are ways to help reduce the burden of tuition costs. First, financial aid options available to students may make it possible for them to attend college without worrying about debt. 

Furthermore, many colleges and universities offer scholarships and grants that can help defray tuition costs. And finally, it may be a good idea to take up some part-time jobs .

Are graduate programs post-secondary education?

Yes , graduate programs are post-secondary education. 

Are there free universities in the USA?

There are free universities in the United States. Many colleges and universities offer a few programs for free, or at low cost, to those who qualify. Examples of such universities are Alice Lloyd College, City University of New York, and Berea College, among others.

Is post-secondary education in the USA worth it?

Yes, it is worth it.  The right education will help you realize your career goals and prepare you for future success.

​​Is there a difference between university and college?

The main difference between a university and a college is that a university provides a broader academic and professional education, while a college offers specialized career or technical education.

Final thoughts

The post-secondary education system in the United States is diverse, with a range of prices and quality. However, there are some key things that all students need to know to make an informed decision about their post-secondary path. 

First and foremost, post-secondary education is a valuable investment – not only for your career prospects but also for your intellectual development. 

Furthermore, paying for quality post-secondary education is worth it – regardless of the school you choose. 

You can find many resources available online to assist you in finding the right school and navigating the admissions process. 

This is true whether you’re looking for scholarships or university rankings or looking for personal recommendations from students. Read the article on prospective students for more information.

You can also read more on the definition and benefits of secondary schools .

Thanks for reading.

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What is Post Secondary Education?

What is post-secondary education.

Your education is a journey to prepare you for the life you want to lead, and there are many possible paths to explore after graduating high school. Post secondary education opportunities can allow you to dive deeper into your interests and discover your true passions. Many post secondary education programs offer more hands on learning experiences that provide clarity about what you want to do with your life. 

In this post, we outline the most common post-secondary education options available after high school. But first things first: What exactly is post-secondary education?

Post Secondary Education: Meaning and Definition

As one might expect, post-secondary education comes after secondary education (also known as high school, which is the final phase of basic education). Post-secondary education is also known as third-level education , higher education , or tertiary education , and is an optional educational path for those who have completed their high-school or GED requirements. The goal of a post-secondary education program is to further train students in specialized skills, preparing them for more-advanced career and life opportunities. 

Post-secondary education programs generally (but not always) culminate in a degree or other form of certification, verifying that the student has completed all associated requirements and is ready to graduate from the program. Post-high school education options that do not award degrees are usually called continuing education , and may include workshops, seminars, and other supplemental opportunities. That said, both of the terms “continuing education” and “post-secondary education” may also be used to describe any form of education available after secondary education.

Types of Post Secondary Options 

While for many, “post-secondary education” is synonymous with college , the truth is that high school graduates have a number of different options to choose from for structured learning after high school. Consider these different types of post-secondary education programs: 

Vocational Schools

Vocational schools (also called trade schools or technical schools ) offer specialized education designed to prepare students for specific lines of work. Compared to a college education, which is usually more academic-focused, vocational programs tend to be more hands-on, experience oriented, and tailored towards practical career knowledge. Additionally, by eliminating many of the general-education and liberal-arts requirements found in colleges, vocational schools may offer a more direct route into the job market. This is the result of job-specific training opportunities and shorter completion times.

Vocational schools typically funnel students directly into careers in skilled trades. Examples of vocational courses include: healthcare and home caregiving, plumbing, electrical services, hairstyling, carpentry, computer network management, paralegal studies, massage therapy, and more. 

Community Colleges

Community colleges are shorter-duration alternatives to the traditional four-year university experience. Most community colleges allow students to earn an associate degree over the course of two years, focusing primarily on the general-education classes required by accredited universities. They sometimes also offer non-degree certification and vocational training.

Most community colleges are open admission , meaning that the admission process is non exclusive, and not dependent on any academic factors other than a high school diploma or equivalent certification. After earning their associate degree through the community college, students may either enter the job market with increased training and certification, or choose to transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a specific major and earn a bachelor’s degree.

Colleges and Universities

Colleges and universities are generally what first come to mind when people think of post-secondary education. These higher-education institutes offer bachelor degree (four-year) programs. Additionally, students may choose to continue their education past the BA/BS level; colleges and universities tend to offer post-graduate programs, allowing dedicated individuals to earn master’s degrees or doctorates. Completing a four-year college program may make some graduates more appealing to job interviewers, and there are a number of companies that won’t even consider applicants unless they have at least a bachelor degree. On the other hand, colleges and universities are usually the most-expensive post-secondary education options — averaging approximately $28,000 in tuition annually. However, many different scholarship and grant programs exist to help offset some of these costs; prospective students should research these possibilities while considering post-secondary options. 

Fellowship and Abroad Programs

Many post-secondary students want to take the time to travel, see the world, and enjoy the freedom that comes from having completed their high school education. At the same time, many feel the desire to use this time to better themselves, learn valuable leadership skills, and give something back. For these students, fellowships and abroad programs may be the answer they’re looking for.

Fellowship and abroad programs offer experiential learning, hands-on training, and real-life opportunities to help and connect with individuals around the world. Students often pursue these opportunities during a ‘gap year’ (either after high school and before college, or between college years). Many gap-year programs combine education and service, and are designed to produce well-rounded, socially conscious individuals who are ready to excel in whatever careers or life paths they choose.

If you are looking to grow your leadership skills and connect with people from around the world, but aren’t drawn to an abroad experience, there are also many opportunities for you! Consider an online leadership program to connect with likeminded young people from around the world, and together build leadership skills to help solve global challenges.

Get the Most out of Your Post-Secondary Opportunities 

If you’re interested in pursuing a post-secondary education, you have a lot of different options to consider. But if you want something that expands your worldview, strengthens your leadership skills, and allows you to interact with new people and cultures, then why not apply for an immersive fellowship abroad or a virtual leadership program? Global Citizen Year is a non-profit organization offering opportunities to enhance your post-secondary education. Make global connections, get hands-on learning opportunities, and gain the experience needed to change the world for the better. 

Learn more about Global Citizen Year , and turn your post-secondary education into an opportunity of a lifetime!

EXPERIENCE A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A GLOBAL CITIZEN YEAR FELLOW

Fellow / Ecuador

— Anna del Savio

I work with a group of indigenous artisans that make fair trade jewelry. …

Fellow / Brazil

— Amari Leigh

After my community garden apprenticeship, I like to hang out at the local waterfall with my friends. …

— Basil Wiering

I often hail a rickshaw into various parts of the city to meet friends and practice street photography. …

— Fernanda Tornell

I've developed my public speaking skills and encouraged hundreds of people to take care of our planet. …

Fellow / India

— Luciana Ribeiro da Silva

I apprentice with Teach For India and also volunteer with a non-profit working to end child marriage. …

— Noah Hapke

I co-teach English classes at the school in my community. …

— Sarah Murray

My apprenticeship is at a school for people with disabilities where I help to lead gardening, games, and capoeira. …

— Alana Poole

In the afternoons, I often go on home visits to meet my students' families and understand where they come from. …

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Types of Postsecondary Schools & Education

Higher education is the non-compulsory educational level.

Post-secondary or tertiary education, also referred to as third-stage, third level education, or higher education, is the non-compulsory educational level.

Higher education, non-compulsory educational level, is education provided by universities, vocational universities (community colleges, liberal arts colleges, and technical colleges, etc.) and other collegial institutions that award academic degrees, such as career colleges following the completion of a school that provides secondary education, such as a high school and secondary K-12 schools.

There are a variety of postsecondary schools from which to choose when you begin your college search. By researching the different types of schools, you will be able to make an educated decision about which one is right for you.

College Preparation

The US education structure includes 12 years of regular schooling (K1 to K-12), preceded by a year or two of pre-school education (kinder garden), and followed by a four-stage postsecondary higher education degree system (associate, bachelor's, master's, doctorate) plus various non-degree certificates and diplomas on the way. In addition, there are special education services, adult basic and continuing education, leisure learning programs, and continuing professional education and training programs. Completion of each level or stage is a prerequisite for access to the next, and a variety of assessment and evaluation tools are used to determine learning needs, academic achievement standards, and eligibility to proceed to higher levels of education.

What kind of college do you see yourself attending? Different types of postsecondary colleges suit different types of people. Most postsecondary schools can be described as public or private , two year or four-year .

Public institutions are state supported. Private for-profit institutions are businesses. Private not-for-profit institutions are independent - for instance, the school might have been established by a church or through local community donations rather than by the state government.

Four-year institutions offer bachelor's degrees, and some offer advanced degrees. two year institutions offer associate's degrees. Less-than-two year institutions offer training and award certificates of completion.

Look at these descriptions to help you see where you fit.

• Career school, technical school, or vocational/trade school

Undergraduate Postsecondary Education

Graduate postsecondary education.

A four-year college grants bachelor's degrees (Bachelor of Arts; Bachelor of Science). Some colleges also award master's degrees, and some also offer a two year Associate of Arts (AA) degree. Colleges can be specialized (for example, in nursing) or they can offer a broad curriculum, like the liberal arts which focus on the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Classes tend to be smaller than those in universities. This provides students with more personal attention and better access to the faculty.

Universities : A university grants bachelor's and master's degrees, and sometimes usually include a liberal arts college, some professional schools or colleges, and graduate programs such as a law school or medical school. Universities tend to be larger than colleges, focus more on scholarly or scientific research, and might have larger class sizes. This means they can offer the two year and four-year degrees as well as graduate degrees in advanced studies beyond four years. Universities offer a huge course selection and may have extensive resources. Class size varies, depending on the size of the university, the subject area, and the course level. University professors are usually involved in research. Graduate students, rather than professors, teach some of the classes. (These graduate students are called Teaching Assistants or TAs.)

Community colleges : A public two year college granting associate's degrees in two year liberal arts program and sometimes certificates in particular technical (career-related) subjects. Typically community college are open admissions. They are open to those 18 years of age or older. However, to be placed into a major, the individual must have a high school diploma, GED, or be placed according to ability to benefit. Some students start their postsecondary education at a community college and then transfer to a four-year school, either because a community college tends to be cheaper than a four-year college, or because admissions standards at community colleges are often less strenuous than at four-year schools. But mostly serve people from nearby communities and offer academic courses, technical courses, and continuing education courses. Public institutions are supported by state and local revenues

Junior colleges: Similar to a community college , except that a junior college is usually a private school.

Career school, technical school, or vocational/trade school: These terms are often used interchangeably. May be public or private, two year or less-than-two year. Study programs at these schools prepare students for specific careers and may last weeks, months, or years, depending on career requirements. At these schools, students usually receive a license, a certificate, or an associate degree. Career schools offer courses that are designed to prepare students for specific careers, from welding to cosmetology to medical imaging, etc. The difference between technical schools and trade schools is that technical schools teach the science behind the occupation, while trade schools focus on hands-on application of skills needed to do the job.

Public vs. Private Private and independent colleges and universities offer a wide range of degrees and certificates up to the doctoral level, as well as professional degrees such as law and medicine. These schools are diverse in character, academic emphasis, and origins. Some schools have a religious affiliation; others are secular. Private schools may be profit or non-profit institutions. Typically, private schools give weight to personal characteristics and activities in addition to considering GPA and test scores. While many private schools are considerably more expensive than comparable state institutions, they also tend to offer more generous financial aid packages. Many students have found the actual out-of-pocket cost to attend a private college to be less than the cost of the state schools to which they were accepted. On the one hand, public colleges are usually less expensive, particularly for in-state residents. They get most of their money from the state or local government. Check out your state's Guide to Residency. Private colleges rely on tuition, fees, endowments, and other private sources. On the other hand, private colleges are usually smaller and can offer more personalized attention (and some believe, more prestige).

• Single-Sex : All four-year public colleges and most private schools are coed. In terms of single-sex colleges, there are about 50 specifically for men and about 70 specifically for women. Some may enroll a few men or women.
• Religiously-Affiliated Colleges : Some private colleges are affiliated with a religious faith. The affiliation may be historic only or it may affect day-to-day student life.
• Historically-Black Colleges : Historically-black colleges find their origins in the time when African-American students were systematically denied access to most other colleges and universities. These schools offer students a unique opportunity to experience an educational community in which they're part of the majority.
• Hispanic-Serving Institutes : There are about 135 institutions designated by the federal government as "Hispanic serving" At these schools, Hispanic students comprise at least 25 percent of the total full-time undergraduate enrollment.

Types of Postsecondary Education

Undergraduate postsecondary education is the U.S. terminology for formal education after graduating from secondary school but prior to advanced study in the research disciplines or professional fields. Undergraduate studies in the United States are generally divided into two phases: a set of distributed course requirements that must be completed involving basic study in several subjects; and a concentrated program of study in one or more subjects. Two postsecondary degrees are awarded at the undergraduate level:

• Associates of Arts (AA)
• Associates of Science (AS)
• Associates of Applied Science (AAS)
• the Bachelor's Degree .

Students at the undergraduate levels may earn certificates or diplomas in addition to degrees or instead of them.

Graduate education is the term used in the United States for studies undertaken after the award of a bachelor's degree. It corresponds to what is called post-graduate or advanced education in some other systems.

Education at this level in the U. S. can be of two types:

Professional studies that require the student to have already earned an undergraduate degree.

Research studies following either a bachelor's degree or a professional degree.

Two postsecondary degrees are awarded at the graduate level:

• The Master's Degree and
• the Doctoral Degree .

Distance education is considered to be a vehicle for delivering education to persons whose location, circumstances or work make remote links necessary or convenient, and is defined, for the purposes of accreditation review, as a formal educational process in which the majority of the instruction occurs when student and instructor are not in the same place. Instruction may be synchronous or asynchronous. It is not considered to be a separate type of education altogether.

Distance education is an increasingly popular way to study for everything from a short professional course to a graduate degree in the United States, and there are numerous institutions offering undergraduate degree programs using distance education teaching methods involving. "the process of extending learning, or delivering instructional resource-sharing opportunities, to locations away from a classroom, building or site, to another classroom, building or site by using video, audio, computer, multimedia communications, or some combination of these with other traditional delivery methods."

Because distance education is less expensive to support and is not constrained by geographic considerations, it offers opportunities in situations where traditional education has difficulty operating. Students with scheduling or distance problems can benefit, as can workers, because distance education can be more flexible in terms of time and can be delivered virtually anywhere. Studies indicate that distance learning can be as effective as the traditional format when the methods are appropriate to the teaching tasks, there is student-teacher interaction, and the teachers provide students with appropriate and timely feedback.

For international students this means that they can study for a U.S. degree without leaving their home country, though they will almost certainly have to go to the United States for short periods of face-to-face contact and study on the campus. Studying for a degree using distance education requires students to have special qualities such as self-discipline and the ability to work on their own. If you are considering distance education, you should thoroughly research the quality of the program, the accreditation of the institution in the United States, and its recognition in your home country to make sure this option is the appropriate one for your future goals.

Sources: Adapted from the articles "Types of Colleges: Which Type Suits You Best?"and "Historically Black Colleges and Universities." © 2006 collegeboard.com. Reprinted with permission. Visit www.collegeboard.com .

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This is used to describe any type of education occurring after high school/secondary school. While post-secondary education isn’t mandatory, it offers added advantages because it helps students get additional education and develop various skills, which may increase their chances of securing higher-level employment. Students should also consider the salary difference. A significant percentage of high school graduates choose to receive post-secondary education because the mean annual salary of a college graduate is far better than that of a high school graduate.

Students planning to receive post-secondary education can choose from different types of post-secondary education institutions.

Colleges and universities: These are the two most sought-after choices for post-secondary education. Some students attend post-secondary education institutions, such as business schools and graduate schools, to earn a master’s degree that gives them a leg-up in the competitive job market. While colleges and universities are usually the most expensive forms of post-secondary education, several grants and scholarship programs are available that can help ease students’ financial burden.

Community colleges: By attending community colleges, students can earn an associate degree after two years. Some community colleges also offer vocational courses and non-degree certificates. Apart from academic classes, these colleges offer various programs for the community. It’s important to understand that community colleges take just two years to award an associate degree because they only offer general education courses that all college students must take. In four-year colleges and universities, students spend the first two years meeting the general education requirements and the next two years taking specialized classes depending on their majors.

Vocational schools: These schools teach students the technical sides of certain skills or crafts of a particular job. Unlike colleges that provide students with academic training to pursue careers in specific professional disciplines, vocational schools provide job-specific training where certain skills are prioritized over academic learning. While there’re many different types of vocational courses available, not all vocational schools provide all kinds of vocational courses. By completing any of these courses, a student receives a certificate that demonstrates they are trained for the skill of their choice. Students may also earn multiple certificates for multiple courses if they think it’ll give them a further advantage.

Apart from these, some students may choose to receive non-degree post-secondary education. Non-degree students are individuals who may be interested in learning a certain field and want to pursue academic interests but don’t want to earn a degree. By completing such a program, students can earn a certificate of completion instead of an associate’s degree.

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Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Post-Secondary Education

• By Emily Summers
• December 10, 2019

Are you about to graduate high school or have already graduated but are considering further studies for better employment opportunities? If so, then you might have heard the term “post-secondary education” every now and then.

As the name goes, post-secondary education takes place after you finish high school. And while most people see it as a stepping stone towards better employment opportunities in the future, this isn’t always necessarily the case. Also, contrary to popular belief, post-secondary education isn’t limited to college, so if money is a hindering factor for taking post-secondary education, you might want to consider the other options aside from college.

In this article, we define post-secondary education, what it means, and the various options available for you after your graduate high school (or high school equivalent). And then we tackle whether or not taking a post-secondary education really is important in the career path you want to take.

What Is Post-Secondary Education?

Secondary vs. post-secondary education, vocational schools, non-degree students, community colleges, colleges & universities, do i need post-secondary education for work.

Post-secondary education is also known as “higher education,” “third-level education,” or “tertiary education,” which all roughly mean the same thing. Its subtypes that don’t result in degrees like certificate programs and community college are also called “continuing education.” These refer to the educational programs you can take after graduating high school, get your GED, or anything similar to these in your country.

Unlike primary and secondary school that are mandatory for children under the age of 18, post-secondary education is completely optional. It is the final stage of formal learning and leads towards an academic degree. Post-secondary education is defined in the International Standard Classification of Education as levels 6 through 8. Post-secondary education also includes both undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

In the United States, plenty of high school students opt to take post-secondary education , with over 21 million students attending after high school. This is because many people see this as a ticket to economic security as having a higher education degree can be the key to opening more job opportunities in the market. While college is a type of post-secondary education, it is not the only form of tertiary education, though. And just because someone has completed their post-secondary education does not necessarily mean there will be job offers lined up for their choosing. Nor does it mean that they automatically earn more than a person who chose not to attend post-secondary education.

Secondary education is more commonly known as high school, but it can also refer to people who have taken their GED (General Education Development) tests or any equivalent around the world. Unlike post-secondary education, students are required to attend secondary school (or at least they are, until they turn 18 and can opt to drop out).

There are a number of people who choose to drop out ( around 527,000 people from October 2017 to October 2018). While it is possible for them to find work (around 47.2 percent of them), they cannot attend post-secondary education unless they finish high school or earn a secondary education diploma.

And while there are jobs available for those who didn’t get to finish secondary school or finished high school but opted not to attend post-secondary education, this closes some doors for them. For example, if you want to become a medical doctor , you cannot enter medical school until you earn a Bachelor’s degree by attending four years of college under an appropriate pre-med program. So, even if you got high grades in high school biology, no medical school is going to accept a student without a bachelor’s degree.

Post-Secondary Institutions

Contrary to popular belief, the term “post-secondary education” and its other similar terms aren’t limited to just earning a bachelor’s degree in high school. Colleges and universities are the most popular choice, but they may not be the most financially possible choice for everyone, especially if you consider that plenty of college graduates in the US are struggling to pay off student loan payments years after they’ve graduated college.

If you’re open to the idea of further education after high school but want to consider other options, here are your possible choices.

Also known as trade or tech schools, vocational schools teach it students on the technical side of certain crafts or skills of a specific job. Unlike colleges where its students receive academic training for careers in certain professional disciplines, vocational school students do job-specific training where certain physical skills are needed more than academic learning.

These are available in almost every country, though they may go by different names. In some countries, there may be both vocational schools run privately or public vocational school that are either fully or partially subsidized by the government for people who want to learn skills for better employment opportunities.

Some vocational courses include:

• Health care for nursing (for people who want to work as caregivers)
• Computer network management
• Word processing application (secretarial positions)
• Food and beverage management
• Fashion designing
• Electrician
• Commercial pilot
• Catering and hotel management
• Daycare management
• Hairstyling, cosmetics, and beautification
• Paralegal studies
• Massage therapy
• Pharmacy technician
• Travel agent

Take note that there are a lot more vocational courses than the ones provided, but not all vocational schools provide all types of courses. Some vocational schools may also specialize in certain industries, so it’s best to do your research on vocational schools in your area .

Completion of any of these courses provide you with a certificate that shows you have completed and trained for the skill of your choice. This gives you a competitive advantage in the job market compared to other high school graduates who do not have the same training for the skillset you have.

It is also possible to have multiple certificates for different courses if you think this will give you a further advantage, such as getting certified for Electrician, Plumber, and Carpentry courses if you intend to work in the construction industry. This also applies to college graduates who think they can get a leg up with both a college degree and a vocational school certificate on their resume.

There are two definitions of non-degree students . The first is a student who attends a college or university and attends undergraduate, master, or doctorate classes but not for the sake of earning a degree. These are people who may be interested in learning for specific classes and want to pursue academic interests but do not see the need to earn the full degree. These can be simply because they want to learn a certain field or who want to add to their resume that they took classes for a specific subject.

Another type of non-degree student are online or classroom programs on specific topics that can be used for resume-building skills or personal enrichment. You won’t earn a diploma, but you earn a certificate of completion. It’s similar to what you earn from tech school, but more academic than in terms of skill.

Community colleges are also known as “junior colleges” or “two-year colleges.” As its name goes, instead of earning a Bachelor’s degree after four years, community college students earn associate degrees after just two years . Some community colleges also offer non-degree certificates and vocational courses, though not all colleges do. Aside from academic classes, community colleges offer other programs for the community.

The reason why community colleges take half the time to earn a diploma is because it only offers the general education requirements taken by all college students. In regular colleges and universities, you spend four years studying: the first two years are dedicated to general education requirements, while the next two are for your specialized classes depending on your major.

Community college can be a step towards employment, but it can also be a step towards entering university. With the classes you’ve taken in community college, you can proceed to a university and major for two more years to work towards a bachelor’s degree. But if you think you don’t need one and intend to enter the workforce after attending community college, you’ll be given an associate’s degree after completion.

The most popular choice for post-secondary education, colleges and universities not only provide bachelor’s degree for high school students, but also post-graduate degrees for college students. Some examples of post-graduate degrees that fall under this bracket include graduate school, law school, medical school, dental school, and business school.

Some people attend post-secondary education institutions like graduate school and business schools for a master’s degree that will give them a leg-up in the job market for higher-ranking positions. However, for other institutions like law school and medical school, you need to enter and finish your education if you want to achieve a certain job role. For example, paralegals may need certification or even a bachelor’s degree, depending on how competitive a paralegal position in a law firm is, but if you want to become a lawyer, you need to finish to law school and pass the bar exam in your jurisdiction.

It’s relatively the most expensive form of post-secondary education, but there are several options on how to get in. There are several scholarship and grant programs that can provide you with partial to full scholarships (some even provide stipends or allowances for expenses like food, books, and other necessities) without having to go into debt. However, a lot of scholarship programs are extremely competitive and are usually awarded to students who show a lot of academic or athletic promise or require the most financial aid.

Getting post-secondary education is not necessary to land a job in the future, nor is there any assurance that getting further education will get you a job right after completing your education. If you feel like none of the options mentioned above can help you towards the career you want or see yourself doing in the future, then you don’t have to take any of them. Unlike elementary and secondary school in your younger years, post-secondary education isn’t mandatory – whether you attend school after high school or after the age of 18 is still your choice.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, almost 70% of high school graduates in 2018 between the ages of 16 to 24 enrolled to colleges or universities. And out of the 20 to 29-year-olds who received a college diploma, around 72% were employed. However, 74% of high school graduates were in the labor force (meaning they were working or actively looking for work), while 42% of high school drop outs were working.

This means that regardless of your educational attainment, there will be a position in the job market that will suit your educational attainment. However, depending on what that is, the job market could be competitive.

Also, take note of the salary difference. One of the possible reasons why over half of high school graduates opt to attend post-secondary education is because the average annual salary of a college graduate is over half the average annual salary of a high school graduate – and the gap between the two educational attainments is only growing wider.

However, some people don’t work for the paycheck alone and work because it’s something they want to do or they’re content with their job and the salary they earn. There is nothing wrong with this, especially if this means they choose a career path or job that allows them to do what they want.

Whether or not you should pursue post-secondary education is ultimately up to you. If you want a career that doesn’t necessarily fall under the available institutions or you feel like continuing education will do little to help your career, then it’s OK to skip this altogether and pursue a career or track that you want. But if you want to pursue continuing education but feel like you can’t afford to take four years of college, then you know that you have other options available that may help you.

About the Author

Emily summers.

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Post-secondary education: What is the difference between college and university?

Posted July 31, 2019

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Are you going to college or university?

College is different from university in Canada. They are the two types of post-secondary education programs taken after graduating from high school.

What is post-secondary education?

Studies beyond high school are called post-secondary education. Students take a program to earn:

• Apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma (including ‘centres de formation professionelle’)
• College, CEGEP or other non-university certificate or diploma
• University or diploma below bachelor level
• University degree (bachelor’s degree, university certificate or diploma above bachelor level, degree in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine or optometry, etc.); master’s degree; earned doctorate

There are three types of post-secondary schools:

• Universities

These schools and the programs they offer must meet standards set by the government. Only then can they be officially recognized to grant degrees, diplomas, certificates and other qualifications. Manitoba Advanced Education is the government ministry in charge of post-secondary education in the province.

What is the difference between college and university?

The main difference between a college and university is that universities focus on academic and professional programs while colleges tend to be more career-oriented and offer career training and trades.

Colleges and institutes Colleges and institutes usually offer certificate programs which take one year or less, and diploma programs which can take two to three years. However, a growing number of colleges now also offer bachelor’s degrees, even master’s degrees. Aside from in class studies, college programs offer practical, hands-on training such as pre-trades and apprenticeship. Areas of study can range from business to health.

You will know these institutions as colleges, community colleges, colleges of applied arts and technology, and institutes of technology or science. Career colleges are institutes that are entirely private.

Colleges in MB:

• Red River College
• Assiniboine Community College
• Manitoba Institute of Technology . To know more about MITT, read Getting into the Trades )
• École Technique et Professionelle
• International College of Manitoba

Universities Universities offer programs that grant degrees in a variety of subjects and fields. Most degrees take three to four years to complete for a full-time student. You can earn three types of degrees: bachelor’s degree (undergraduate degrees), master’s degree (more advanced and requires an undergraduate degree), and doctoral degree (most advanced and may require a master’s degree). Graduates of regulated professions (ex: medicine, law, education) have to complete internships and pass standard exams before they can be licensed to work in their field.

Universities in MB:

• University of Manitoba
• University of Winnipeg
• Brandon University
• Université de Saint-Boniface
• Providence University College
• Booth University
• Canadian Mennonite University
• University College of the North

There are two main terms per year at most post-secondary institutions: September to December and January to April.

Sources: Post-secondary education , Government of Canada; The Canadian Centre Information Centre for International Credentials ; What is the difference between college and university in Canada? Settlement.org; and Education and Training , Manitoba.ca. Accessed July 23, 2019.

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Education in Canada: Post-secondary

Table of contents, on this page.

• Universities
• Colleges and institutes
• Educational credential recognition
• Financial help

Registered Education Savings Plans

Part-time and distance education.

• Government ministries in charge of post-secondary education by province and territory

Types of post-secondary schools

In Canada, there are 3 different types of post-secondary schools

• universities

At most post-secondary schools, the school year is divided into 2 main terms and an optional summer term.

• Term 1: September to December
• Term 2: January to April
• Optional summer term: May to August

Each province and territory makes sure each school and its programs meet a certain set of standards. Schools aren’t officially recognized until they’re certified.

A recognized school can grant

• certificates
• other qualifications

If you’re not sure if a school is officially recognized, contact your ministry or department of post-secondary education.

The Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC) also maintains a directory of recognized schools in Canada.

Study at a university

Universities offer programs on a wide range of topics at different levels of difficulty and complexity. When you successfully complete a university program, you’re awarded with a university degree that reflects the type of program you completed. There are 3 types of degrees.

• Bachelor’s degree : This is the simplest degree offered by Canadian universities. It typically takes 3 to 4 years to complete.
• Master’s degree : This is a more advanced degree that usually takes 1 to 3 extra years of study after you get a bachelor’s degree.
• Doctoral degree : This is the most advanced degree offered by Canadian universities. It can take another 3 to 4 more years of study and research following a master’s degree.

In regulated professions, students must complete an internship or pass a standardized test (or series of tests) after getting the degree. You can’t work in these professions until you get the degree and pass the tests. Regulated professions include

Get help choosing a program

Universitystudy.ca can help you plan for your education. Learn about

• universities in Canada
• programs of study
• how to choose a program
• application and admission requirements
• financial planning information

Study at a college or institute

There are many types of colleges and institutes recognized by provinces and territories, including

• community colleges
• colleges of applied arts or applied technology
• institutes of technology or science
• collèges d’enseignement général et professionnel (CEGEPs) in Quebec
• career colleges

More about “career colleges”

These institutions are privately owned and run. They offer programs that focus on specific careers like

• personal support workers
• early childcare assistants
• estheticians

While they’re reviewed and recognized by the provinces and territories, they’re not publically funded. They’re entirely funded through tuition fees.

Learn more about regulated career colleges.

Colleges and institutes usually offer shorter programs than universities (1 to 3 years). Instead of degrees, they issue diplomas and certificates that qualify graduates to do specific jobs in different industries.

These industries can include

• computer and mechanical technologies
• health care
• social services
• agriculture
• trades (such as carpentry, electrical or plumbing)

Many colleges are also starting to offer bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees in certain industries.

Find out more about the available degrees .

Get your educational credentials recognized

To study at post-secondary school in Canada, you need to have your existing level of education assessed. The assessment verifies your foreign degree, diploma or certificate (or other proof of your credential) is valid and equal to a Canadian one.

Contact the post-secondary schools you are interested in to find out what kind of educational assessment they accept.

The costs of post-secondary education

All post-secondary schools charge tuition fees for their programs. For Canadian citizens and permanent residents, tuition fees are between $2,500 and $11,400 a year, depending on the school and program you’ve chosen. Tuition fees can be much higher for international students.

Students will also have to pay for

• course materials, like textbooks and supplies
• transportation
• other expenses

Many students depend on financial support programs to help them cover these costs.

Get financial help

The federal and provincial/territorial governments all have programs that provide low-cost loans, grants and scholarships for students.

There are 2 main types of financial help for students:

• Student loans from a bank or the federal government: These need to be repaid according to the terms of the loan.
• Grants, scholarships or bursaries, which you don’t have to repay.

You can get information from

• National Student Loans Service Centre
• The university or college you plan to attend

Student financial help by province and territory

• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Prince Edward Island
• Saskatchewan

A  Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) is a tax-free education savings account that lets parents, family members and friends save money for a child’s post-secondary education.

When you open an RESP account, the Government of Canada will help you save by adding money to your RESP through special programs. This encourages people to save more money for their child’s education.

These programs include

• Canada Education Savings Grants (for children aged 17 or younger)
• Canada Learning Bonds  (for children aged 15 or younger)

Find out how to open an RESP account

Many post-secondary schools offer part-time programs and distance education . These programs can help you get an education if you have limited time or can’t attend the school in person.

Contact schools directly to learn about their part-time study and distance education options.

Ministries of post-secondary education

• Alberta Innovation and Advanced Education
• British Columbia Ministry of Advanced Education
• Manitoba Advanced Education
• New Brunswick Ministry of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour
• Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
• Northwest Territories Ministry of Education, Culture and Employment
• Nova Scotia Department of Education
• Nunavut Department of Education
• Ontario Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development
• Prince Edward Island Department of Workforce and Advanced Learning
• Quebec – Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement supérieur
• Saskatchewan—Ministry of Advanced Education
• Yukon Department of Education

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