A vocational college is a place for classes or study at an undergraduate institution of higher learning which offers degrees geared toward particular professions. The goal of a vocational college is to train students to fill jobs in particular defined fields or careers. They generally offer some type of formal certification, including associate or bachelor degrees, but not master degrees or doctorates.

The courses prepare students for defined occupations while remaining part of undergraduate higher education. Associate and bachelor degrees are possible, with master degrees and doctorates outside this institutional range.

A training school offers lessons outside degree-oriented academic study. A liberal arts college provides undergraduate education with a different subject and program focus.