Community College

Community colleges are usually 2 year public institutions that provide higher education granting certificates, diplomas, and associate's degrees. Community colleges play a unique role in higher education offering a wide variety of classes, educational opportunities, and transfer options.

Many community colleges offer 6 facets of education:

Transfer education: A student will attend a community college for 2 years and then transfer to a 4-year institution to pursue a Bachelor's Degree. There is an agreement in the state of Michigan that up to 30 credits of general education will transfer from a community college to a participating 4 year university or college.
Career education: This is usually a 2 year program leading to an associate degree. Career field pending, a student will be able to immediately enter the workforce. Community colleges offer a lot of similiar programs as career colleges.
Developmental: Community colleges also offer remedial classes for individuals who are not academically ready to enroll in college level courses. Many community colleges use placement tests or standardized test scores to determine if a student is at a college level.
Continuing: Non-credit courses are offered for personal development and interests.
Industry Training: This is contracted training and education where a local company pays the community college to provide specific training or courses for employees.
eLearning: This is also sometimes referred to as distance learning. eLearning occurs online allowing students to enroll in courses from almost any location.