When it comes to choosing where to start your post-secondary education, bigger is not always better. Small colleges like College of the Rockies are often far less expensive than larger universities, both for tuition and costs of living. But financial considerations aren't the only thing to keep in mind. Here are three other reasons to consider a small college:

1) Equivalent, if not superior, education.

Think you need to go to a big university to get access to the best instructors? Small colleges have highly qualified faculty, many of whom have Ph.Ds. College of the Rockies alum Kelsey thinks the education she received provided her with many opportunities: "College of the Rockies is a small college, which some may assume makes opportunity limited. In my experience, it's the complete opposite. The high-quality education I received at the College opened many doors for me."

2) Smaller class sizes

A small college means fewer students competing for the attention of faculty, leading to a more personalized and productive learning experience. College of the Rockies alum Haley took University Studies courses before transferring to university to complete her degree. She says, "I had a much better experience of first- and second-year science courses than other students who completed them at a university, because of the smaller class sizes and individual attention from instructors. I was able to complete three different animal dissections in my vertebrate biology class. That would not have been an option at a larger university."

3) Options!

Whether you want to complete a full degree, a couple of years of university courses before going to university, vocational training, or an apprenticeship in a skilled trade, small colleges provide a wide range of options. Red Seal Electrician, Josh, was sorry to see his time at College of the Rockies end. "The staff and facilities at the College were phenomenal," he says. "I looked forward every year to getting back to school and I wish I still had some years to complete. Doing my apprenticeship training at College of the Rockies has gotten me where I am today."

College of the Rockies also offers semester abroad and international field school opportunities, incorporates hands-on learning whenever possible, and produces graduates who lead fulfilling lives in a wide variety of fields, from haul truck drivers to doctors. So, when you're thinking about where to start your post-secondary education, remember that sometimes the best things come in small packages.