Some students may be better-suited to two-year community colleges. Read on to learn about the pros and cons of obtaining a degree from one of these schools.

With the economy struggling, high school graduates often must attend college if they wish to find lucrative employment. While many graduates leave high school to embark on journeys at four-year colleges and universities, some choose to attend two-year community colleges. I will try to write my essay shortly.

While this choice is not right for everyone, some students can benefit greatly from obtaining a two year degree. Before choosing to attend a community college, though, potential students should consider the pros and cons of such a decision.

Pros of Attending a Community College

The following aspects of two-year community colleges are advantageous:

Cost: According to the College Board, the average yearly tuition costs at two-year community colleges are $2,713, roughly half of the $5,073 a year that the U.S. Department of Education estimates that students can expect to pay at four-year public universities. The savings at community colleges are even greater compared to four-year private universities, which the College Board states can cost upwards of $35,000 annually. Students must also take into consideration the fact that they only pay for two years of tuition to obtain a degree from a community college, increasing their savings even more.
Time: Because community college programs last only two years, students can obtain a degree and begin working sooner than they would if they attended a four-year college or university.

Specific Programs: Community colleges typically offer specific degree programs, especially in healthcare fields. North Central State College in Ohio, for example, provides degrees in Practical Nursing, Physical Therapy Assisting, and Respiratory Care. By obtaining one of these degrees, students are prepared to take state licensure examinations and begin working in their respective fields, according to writemyessay.nyc editors.

Cons of Attending a Community College

While there are benefits to two-year community college programs, students must also consider the following cons:

Competition: In a struggling economy, students can expect to experience a high degree of competition when applying for jobs. A student with a four-year degree, then, will have an advantage over a student with only an associate's degree from a community college.

Limited Programs: Community colleges typically offer a limited range of degree programs, often in the healthcare or business fields. Students often need to attend a four-year university if they wish to have a wide range of degree options available to them.

As with any decision, there are both pros and cons involved when choosing to attend a two-year community college. For students who have a specific degree program in mind, a two-year community college may be the perfect fit. For those looking for a wide range of options, or those interested in entering a competitive field, a four-year college may perhaps provide more opportunities. Students always have the option of beginning their studies at two-year community colleges, and later transferring to a four-year university as they see fit.