Each of the three types of schools has its own mission. Research oriented schools undertake cutting-edge research. The state-run universities focus on developing general manpower, and therefore do not have doctoral programs. Finally, the two-year community colleges provide a channel for high school graduates to engage in further study.
三類大學各有使命，研究型大學從事先進研究；州立大學專注於培養一般人才，因此不設博士班；二年制的社區學院則是中學生繼續升學的管道。