Researching Colleges

Community colleges offer 2-year programs that lead to an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree. They also provide hands-on technical and career training. You’ll find them in big cities, suburbs, and small towns.

Many students start at a community college to save money—tuition is usually much cheaper than at a 4-year school. Community Colleges often have easier admissions and more flexible schedules.

St Louis Community Colleges have  partnerships with many Missouri universities, so you can do two years at a community college and then transfer to finish your last two years at a university and graduate with a bachelor’s degree.

Missouri also hosts the "A+ Program" which provides 2 years of FREE tuition for students who complete the program while in high school. 

Learn More About "A+ Program" 

Here are links to some local Community Colleges:

St Louis Community Colleges with campuses in Florissant, Forest Park, Kirkwood (Meramec), and Wildwood

St Charles Community College

Jefferson College "Jeffco" located in Hillsboro

A 4-year college is a school where you can earn a bachelor’s degree, which usually takes about four years to complete. These colleges offer a wide range of academic majors, from science and business to the arts and humanities. Some are large public universities, while others are smaller private colleges. They often have campus housing, clubs, sports, and other activities to get involved in. Many students go to a 4-year college right after high school to continue their education and prepare for future careers.

What's the difference between the terms "College" and "University"?

In the U.S., the terms "college" and "university" are often used interchangeably, but there is a slight difference. A college usually offers undergraduate degrees (like associate or bachelor’s degrees). A university offers both undergraduate and graduate programs (like master’s and doctoral degrees) and is typically larger.

Both can provide a great education—it just depends on what you're looking for. 

For the PSH website the words "college", "school," and "university" are used to mean the same thing.  

A technical college is a school that focuses on hands-on training for specific careers, like healthcare, automotive repair, computer technology, or skilled trades. Programs usually take two years or less to complete. Instead of general education classes, most of your courses are focused on job skills.

After graduating, you can earn a certificate or an associate degree and be ready to start working right away.

Technical colleges are a good option if you want to enter the workforce quickly with specialized training.

Here are links to some Technical Colleges:

•  Ranken Technical College
• State Technical School of Missouri located in Linn, MO

A "for-profit" college is a school run by a private company that aims to make money from its students' tuition. These colleges often offer career-focused programs, both in-person and online. While some can provide useful training, they can also be more expensive than public colleges. Not all for-profit schools have strong graduation or job placement rates, so it’s important to do your research.

If you're considering one, make sure the program is accredited and worth the cost.

Factors to Weigh Before Enrolling at a "For Profit" College - article by US News & World Report

To determine if a college is for-profit or nonprofit:

• Check the U.S. Department of Education's database 
• check the college's website  
• Ask the college's admissions office

IMPORTANT-   ".edu" domains CAN be used by "for profit" colleges

College isn't just about "getting in". It's about finding a place where you'll thrive. We want every student to find a campus that feels like home and supports their academic, social, and financial goals. 

Use the tabs below to help you reflect on what environment will be the "best fit" for you!

SchooLinks is a comprehensive. online tool that helps Parkway students:  identify their interests, explore careers, and research, compare & apply to colleges.

Each year, school counselors meet with students during grade-level workshops to show them how to use SchooLinks and all the great features it offers. It's easy to navigate and is designed to help you feel confident about your future! 

SchooLinks is accessible to students through their ClassLinks profile with their Parkway Google log-in. 

Learn More About SchooLinks

Although we recommend using SchooLinks for college research, students can also use the tools listed on the tabs below to explore particular aspects of the college experience. 

Think of an admissions rep as your inside guide 🎓—they can share details about the application process, opportunities on campus 🌟, and even financial aid 💵.  Definitely reach out to them if you have questions. Connecting with them shows you’re serious about their college!

List of College Admission Rep's Contact Info

 Meet College Reps Right Here at PSH

Throughout the school year, Parkway South hosts college representatives from schools across the country—and you don’t even have to leave campus to meet them!

Where are the College Rep Visits Listed? 

• In SchooLinks -->  Engage --> Events
• Counseling Department Events Calendar
• "Next Grad" sign in the Commons
• Counseling Department Newsletter

How Do I Sign Up?

• Go to SchooLinks (located in ClassLinks f/k/a Clever)
• Click on "Home" on the left side of the screen
• Select "Engage" in the left side navigation panel
• Click on the College Rep Visit you want to attend
• Click the "register" button on the right
• Complete the form and submit

The counseling department will send you a pass to leave class the day of the visit. 

Why Should I Go to a College Rep Visit?

Here’s why these visits are worth your time:

• Easy access: Just stop by the Counseling Department to meet reps in person.

• Get answers: Ask about admissions, campus life, scholarships, majors, and more. Click HERE for a list of questions you can ask college reps.

• Make connections: Many of these reps are the same people who will read your application—they’ll remember you!

• Show interest: Attending these visits shows colleges that you're genuinely interested, and they do take note.

Take advantage of this opportunity to learn more and make a great impression!

Check out the Counseling Calendar to see when local College Fairs are occurring in the St. Louis area. 

"A college fair is an event where representatives from multiple colleges and universities come together in one location to interact with potential students and provide them with information.

This event offers an excellent opportunity for students and their families to explore various colleges, learn about different educational options, and gather valuable information about admissions requirements , programs of study, campus life, and financial aid." - from Big Future/CollegeBoard

• What to Expect at a College Fair
• What to Take
• What Questions to Ask

Visiting College Campuses: What You Need to Know

Seeing a college campus—whether in person or online—is a big part of figuring out which schools are the best fit for you.

While it’s great to visit in person, we know that’s not always possible. The good news? Most colleges now offer virtual tours, and some even offer “fly-in” programs that cover the cost for students to visit.

Check out the resources below to help you get ready—whether you're visiting in person or exploring online!