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Is it better to go to a ACCREDITED program or a 4 year?
#college #university #major #college-advice
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Nicole’s Answer
Hi Jayelyn R. Thanks for your terrific question!
First and foremost, stick with an accredited institution. I suggest this because accredited institutions tend to have more effective curriculums. Typically, after you have spent your time and money at that institution, employers (or customers if you plan to go directly into entrepreneurship), place more weight on accredited vs non-accredited institutions.
I am not sure that there is necessarily a link between an accredited institution and the number of years to complete a degreed program. It is my understanding that even 2 year colleges can have accredited programs. As long as the curriculum for the degree/program/certification that you are interested in meets certain standards, the number of years shouldn't matter and that institution can be considered accredited. Recognize too that many accredited institutions offer online/virtual learning as well.
Do your homework before investing your time and money...and best of luck to you!
First and foremost, stick with an accredited institution. I suggest this because accredited institutions tend to have more effective curriculums. Typically, after you have spent your time and money at that institution, employers (or customers if you plan to go directly into entrepreneurship), place more weight on accredited vs non-accredited institutions.
I am not sure that there is necessarily a link between an accredited institution and the number of years to complete a degreed program. It is my understanding that even 2 year colleges can have accredited programs. As long as the curriculum for the degree/program/certification that you are interested in meets certain standards, the number of years shouldn't matter and that institution can be considered accredited. Recognize too that many accredited institutions offer online/virtual learning as well.
Do your homework before investing your time and money...and best of luck to you!
Updated
Jan’s Answer
I think it's always better to go to an accredited program, if possible. However, I also believe it depends on the field of work you are pursuing. Some fields such as engineering are more competitive than others, therefore where you go to college may make a difference. For other fields, it may not be as important.
However you can still find good programs at an unaccredited college. And if you are struggling to pay for college and can live at home while taking classes, then in the long run I wouldn't overlook an unaccredited program. Excellent grades and an internship that provides valuable experience will serve you well.
Best of luck in your decision!
However you can still find good programs at an unaccredited college. And if you are struggling to pay for college and can live at home while taking classes, then in the long run I wouldn't overlook an unaccredited program. Excellent grades and an internship that provides valuable experience will serve you well.
Best of luck in your decision!
Updated
Nick’s Answer
Hi Jayelyn, I wanted to echo Nicole's answer and say stick with an accredited college. Accredited colleges have to meet a strict set of standards around curriculum and instruction and employers generally consider them more highly. In addition, if you want to go to another college later - either transfer schools, go from a 2 year college to a 4 year college, or go to graduate school, it is MUCH easier to get credit for your work (called transfer credit) if you are coming from an accredited college.
If you're struggling to pay for college, there are still great accredited options for you in San Francisco, for example CCSF or SF State. You can be a full time student there or just take as many classes as you can afford. Good luck!
If you're struggling to pay for college, there are still great accredited options for you in San Francisco, for example CCSF or SF State. You can be a full time student there or just take as many classes as you can afford. Good luck!