After the 1973 season , however , the NCAA reorganized into its modern , three - division format .
Through the 1973 season , NCAA institutions had competed in two divisions -- the large - school University Division and the small - school College Division .
After the 1973 season , however , the NCAA reorganized into NCAA 's modern , three - division format .
Through the 1973 season , NCAA institutions had competed in two divisions -- the large - school University Division and the small - school College Division .