Independent colleges are private institutions of higher education that operate without direct control from state or federal governments. They rely on tuition, donations, and endowments to fund their programs and services. These colleges often have more flexibility in their curriculum and policies compared to public colleges, allowing them to create unique educational experiences. Many independent colleges focus on liberal arts education, emphasizing critical thinking and broad knowledge. They may also offer specialized programs in fields like business, engineering, or health sciences. Students at independent colleges often benefit from smaller class sizes and more personalized attention from faculty.