Meaning and usage of the word tertiary college in English

The term "tertiary college" was commonly used in the past to describe post-secondary educational institutions that were considered below the standard of universities. This classification was based on historical circumstances, specifically the transition from apprenticeship-based vocational education to formal academic programs. In the mid-19th century, this distinction became more clear-cut as universities gained prestige and recognition for providing higher order intellectual education. Colleges that fell short of this standard, typically offering more practical and vocational courses, were labeled as tertiary, meaning they served as a third level of education that came after secondary school (comparable to high school) and before university studies. However, as society's view of education evolved, the distinction between colleges and universities became less distinct, and the term "tertiary college" fell out of favor. Instead, most post-secondary institutions now offer a variety of academic and vocational programs and are colloquially referred to as "colleges" or "community colleges." The term "tertiary college" is now obsolete in everyday usage, though may still be used in some educational contexts or historical texts.