Legal Definitions - college

The term "college" can have two distinct meanings in a legal context:

• 1. An Educational Institution:

  A "college" most commonly refers to an institution of higher learning that offers academic programs primarily in the liberal arts, humanities, and sciences. These institutions typically focus on providing a broad education and critical thinking skills, often leading to undergraduate degrees. They generally do not specialize in vocational training for specific trades or in advanced professional studies (like law or medicine, which are usually pursued at graduate schools or professional schools).

  • Example 1: After graduating from high school, Emily enrolled at Riverbend College to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature. Her coursework included a wide range of subjects from history and philosophy to introductory science classes, fulfilling the college's liberal arts curriculum requirements.

    Explanation: This example illustrates the first definition because Riverbend College provides instruction in the humanities (English Literature, history, philosophy) and sciences, offering a broad academic foundation rather than specialized technical training or direct preparation for a licensed profession.

  • Example 2: Within a large research university, the College of Social Sciences houses departments like Sociology, Political Science, and Economics. Students pursuing degrees in these fields receive a comprehensive academic education focused on theoretical knowledge and research methods, distinct from the university's separate professional schools of engineering or business.

    Explanation: Here, "college" refers to a specific academic division within a larger university that aligns with the definition by offering instruction in the sciences (social sciences), emphasizing broad academic study and research rather than vocational or direct professional training.

• 2. An Assembly of People:

  Less commonly, "college" can refer to a formally constituted group or body of individuals, established by law or specific rules, who are brought together to perform a particular function or to advance a shared purpose. This purpose can be educational, political, religious, or scientific in nature.

  • Example 1: In the United States, the President and Vice President are not elected by direct popular vote but by the Electoral College, which is an assembly of electors chosen by each state.

    Explanation: This demonstrates the second definition because the Electoral College is a legally established assembly of people (electors) whose specific function is to formally elect the President and Vice President, serving a critical political purpose.

  • Example 2: Following the passing of a Pope, the College of Cardinals convenes in a conclave to elect his successor. This assembly of high-ranking clergy members is solely responsible for this significant ecclesiastical function.

    Explanation: This illustrates the second definition as the College of Cardinals is an assembly of individuals (cardinals) established by religious law and tradition to perform the special ecclesiastical function of electing a new Pope.