How many students or what type of campus setting would typically be considered large for a college? I've been thinking about what kind of college environment I'd prefer and it would be great to have a clearer idea.
A large college is typically defined by the size of its student population and campus setting. In general, a college is considered large if it has an undergraduate enrollment of over 10,000 students. Large colleges often have more generous resources, larger campus settings, and a wider variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities available.
The campus setting of a large college can vary from urban to suburban or even rural, but they generally occupy more land than smaller colleges and can feel more like a small city. Large colleges are mostly public universities, but some private institutions also fall into this category.
Some examples of large colleges include University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), University of Michigan (UMich), and Ohio State University (OSU).
Keep in mind that other aspects of college life, such as class size and campus culture, can impact the overall feel of a college. Larger universities often have a diverse student body and a range of opportunities, but some students may find the size overwhelming. Visiting campuses, participating in virtual tours, or talking to current students can give you a better understanding of what each college might offer and if it aligns with your preferences.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.