Public universities are institutions of higher education that are funded by the government or state and operate with the goal of providing accessible and affordable education to a broad range of students. These universities typically offer a wide variety of degree programs and often have larger student populations than private universities. Public universities may also conduct research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in various fields. They are typically designated as state universities or colleges and are governed by a board of directors or trustees appointed by the government or state. Public universities are often seen as a key component of a country's education system and play a crucial role in preparing a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.