College Types & Rankings Flashcards

What is the difference between a college and a university in the US?

Answer: Universities typically offer graduate degrees in addition to undergraduate programs; colleges primarily focus on undergraduates

In the US, universities generally include multiple colleges or schools and offer both undergraduate and graduate/professional degrees, while colleges typically focus on undergraduate education.

What is a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI)?

Answer: A college where at least 25% of full-time undergraduate enrollment is Hispanic

HSIs are federally designated institutions where Hispanic students make up at least 25% of full-time undergraduate enrollment, qualifying for federal HSI grant programs.

What is the Common Data Set and where is it typically published?

Answer: A standardized college statistical report published annually on each college's website

Colleges voluntarily publish their CDS each year on their institutional research pages, providing standardized data on admissions, enrollment, academics, and financial aid.

What does NCAA stand for in US college athletics?

Answer: National Collegiate Athletic Association

The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) is the governing body that regulates athletics, eligibility, and scholarships for more than 1,000 US colleges.

What is regional accreditation for a US college?

Answer: Official recognition by one of seven regional bodies that a college meets quality standards

Regional accreditation, granted by bodies like the Middle States Commission or SACSCOC, is the most widely recognized form of college accreditation, required for federal financial aid eligibility.

What is a women's college?

Answer: A college that exclusively or primarily admits women as undergraduate students

Women's colleges, such as Wellesley, Smith, and Barnard, are single-sex institutions that enroll only or primarily women at the undergraduate level.