11. April 2023

College vs. university - the right choice for your studies?

Studying: practical experience or academic theory? What are your interests and what suits your study goals?

Many prospective students are unsure whether they should study at a college or a university. In this article, we would like to help you understand the differences and support you in making the right decision for you.

Type of education - practical or academic?

One of the main differences between colleges and universities is the type of education they offer. Colleges have a stronger focus on practice-oriented degree programs, while universities offer a theoretical and academic education that often focuses on research and academic theory.

Visiting campuses and talking to students - an insight into everyday student life

It is important that you consider what type of education you prefer and which environment suits you best. One option is to visit the campuses of the different institutions and talk to current students to get a better feel for the culture and atmosphere of the institutions.

Advantages of universities - practice-oriented degree programs and an international perspective

If you are interested in a practice-oriented education, a university like the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences could be the right choice for you. Here you will find a wide range of practice-oriented degree courses and close cooperation with companies and institutions from the region to prepare you for your career entry in the best possible way. The university's location in the three-country region of Poland, the Czech Republic and Germany also offers a unique international perspective and enables exchange with students from different countries and cultures.

With a high proportion of foreign students, the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences is also one of the most international universities in Saxony and offers a multicultural learning environment and a unique opportunity for intercultural exchange.

While universities and vocational academies often offer dual study programs, these are rather rare at universities. Students on dual study programs can already earn money during their studies by combining theoretical knowledge with practical work. The dual study program  KIA-Cooperative study program with integrated engineering training at the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences offers students the opportunity to not only obtain a regular university degree, but also a training qualification. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical training enables students to gain valuable experience in the working world, giving them a clear advantage on the job market and preparing them for a successful career.

Individual interests and goals - making the right decision

Ultimately, the decision between a college and a university depends on your individual interests and goals. Careful consideration of your own priorities and extensive research can help you make the right decision.

There are many factors that can play a role in the decision, such as the type of education, funding options, campus atmosphere, location of the institution and much more. Colleges and universities also often offer scholarships and grant programs that can provide financial assistance while you study.

Regardless of which type of institution you ultimately choose, we encourage you to pursue your academic goals and your individual interests and goals. Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences is an option for students seeking a practice-oriented education and a unique international perspective. However, there are many other colleges and universities that offer a wide range of degree programs and experiences. We hope that this article has helped you to better understand the differences between colleges and universities and that you will make an informed decision for your academic future. We wish you every success and happiness on your journey!

Small town or big city? Discover the cool advantages and disadvantages of both options and find your ideal place to study!

Discover Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences: personal insights and getting to know each other in different ways

Personal opportunities to get to know each other: Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences represented at numerous trade fairs

Various fairs offer prospective students an excellent opportunity to get to know Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences in person. The university will be represented at several fairs over the next few months: 

  • KONVENT'A in Löbau | 13.05.
  • INSIDERTREFF | 10.06.
  • Vocatium Leipzig/Halle | 09. - 10.05
  • Vocatium Regensburg | 05. - 06.07.
  • Vocatium Dresden | 13. - 14.06.
  • Vocatium Magdeburg | 27. - 28.05.
  • Oberlausitzer Karrieretage | 23. - 24.09

Interested parties have the opportunity to talk directly to staff and students at the university and find out about the various courses on offer and campus life.

Girls' Day: Get to know Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences live on site

Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences is once again inviting girls to Girls' Day on April 27 this year. On this nationwide career orientation day for girls from the fifth grade onwards, the university offers an exciting program where schoolgirls can get to know the university and gain initial experience in technical and scientific fields.

Our offers

Individual advice: Personal appointments at the university to get to know each other

Alternatively, you can simply send an email to studierhier(at)hszg.de or send a message to the WhatsApp number 0173 2086748 to arrange a personal meeting at the university. The Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences is looking forward to advising prospective students individually in this way and helping them make decisions about studying and campus life.

Study advice via WhatsApp - your questions, our answers straight to your smartphone

Hey, your time at university is coming up and you're not sure whether the HSZG is right for you? Don't worry! From now on, we're just a chat away. Write to us via WhatsApp and get study advice straight to your smartphone! Our number: 01732086748. We're ready to answer your questions and help you discover the perfect adventure for you.

Ask us anything! Study advice by email or phone - we are here for you!

Victoria Hohlfeld
B.A.
Victoria Hohlfeld
Department of Studies and International Affairs
02763 Zittau
Th.-Körner-Allee 16
+49 3583 612-3055