<P> Higher education in the United States is an optional final stage of formal learning following secondary education . Higher education , also referred to as post-secondary education , third stage , third level , or tertiary education occurs most commonly at one of the 4,627 Title IV degree - granting institutions , either colleges or universities in the country . These may be public universities , private universities , liberal arts colleges , community colleges , or for - profit colleges . Higher education in the United States is loosely regulated by a number of third - party organizations that vary in quality . </P>
<P> Higher education in the United States is an optional final stage of formal learning following secondary education . Higher education , also referred to as post-secondary education , third stage , third level , or tertiary education occurs most commonly at one of the 4,627 Title IV degree - granting institutions , either colleges or universities in the country . These may be public universities , private universities , liberal arts colleges , community colleges , or for - profit colleges . Higher education in the United States is loosely regulated by a number of third - party organizations that vary in quality . </P>
how many universities and colleges in the us
how many universities and colleges in the us
4,627
4,627