If you’re researching schools of higher education, you’ve probably asked yourself: what is the real difference between a college and a university? It’s one of the most common questions prospective students search online, and it’s easy to see why. The terms are often used interchangeably, even though they don’t always mean the same thing.
Understanding the difference between a college and a university can help you make a more informed decision about where to apply—and what kind of academic experience you’re looking for.
What Is the Difference Between ‘College’ and ‘University?’
At its core, the difference between a college and a university comes down to academic scope and structure.
College
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Typically focuses on undergraduate education
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Usually offers associate and bachelor’s degrees
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Often smaller, with fewer academic divisions
University
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Offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees
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Includes multiple academic schools or colleges
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Provides a wider range of majors, programs and research opportunities
When students ask about the difference between a college and a university, the most accurate answer is that universities generally offer broader academic pathways, especially at the graduate and professional level.
Where Confusion Arises
One reason the labels “college” and “university” often get confused is that naming conventions vary widely. Some schools use “college” in their name but operate like a university, while others contain colleges within a larger university structure. In everyday conversation, people often use both terms to mean “any place you go to earn a degree,” which adds to the uncertainty.
Does the Difference Between College and University Matter?
In practice, the difference between a college and a university matters less than factors like accreditation, academic quality, student support and career outcomes. A college can provide an excellent education, and a university doesn’t automatically mean a better experience.
What matters most is whether the institution offers the programs, resources and environment that align with your goals.
Trevecca’s Journey from College to University
Trevecca’s own history reflects why many institutions transition from “college” to “university.” Founded in 1901 as a small training school for Christian workers, Trevecca became Trevecca College in 1911 as its academic offerings expanded. Over the decades, the institution added accredited undergraduate programs, master’s degrees, and doctoral studies. In 1995, following significant growth in graduate and professional education, the Board of Trustees approved the transition from Trevecca Nazarene College to Trevecca Nazarene University—formalizing what had already become a broad, multi-level academic institution.
Today, at Trevecca, students benefit from the academic depth and flexibility that come with a university—while still experiencing small class sizes, personalized advising and a close-knit campus community often associated with colleges.
For students comparing colleges with universities in name, functionality or educational impact, Trevecca provides the best of both worlds: comprehensive academic opportunities paired with meaningful personal support.