President’s Message
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Dr. Amy Morrison Goings, President
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Welcome to Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech), the only public institute of technology in Washington state. We offer eight applied bachelor’s degrees, 43 associate degrees and 91 professional certificates in 42 areas of study, including STEM-focused programs in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.
At LWTech, our programs transfer. All of our associate degree programs have public articulation and transfer opportunities to colleges such as Central Washington University (CWU) and Western Governor’s University. We’re also affordable. Two years full-time (12 credits per quarter) at LWTech is approximately $8,000, as compared to some four-year public universities that are up to $24,000 for two years of full-time study.
Over the past 60-plus years, we’ve learned that our students have a better experience and perform better when they feel supported, not only by our faculty and staff, but also by our industry partners who support our students through internships, curriculum support, and equipment donations. Another way we support our students is by providing many support services, many of which are free of charge. Below are just a few:
Academic Advising
Our advisers work with our students from the moment they register until they graduate. We offer assistance in planning academic classes, preparing for admissions to a competitive admission program, and we make sure our students know their options if they choose to transfer after graduation to other colleges or universities.
Academic Support Center
This center provides free services to help students be successful in all aspects of their education.
Assessment Center
This center offers quality testing and assessment services for our students, employees, and the community.
e-Learning
e-Learning provides students, who are taking classes online, with extra assistance in navigating or troubleshooting LWTech’s online course system.
These are just a few examples of how all of us at LWTech are invested in the success of our students. I invite you to explore our website and visit our Kirkland campus.
I look forward to seeing you on campus,
Amy
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Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is the governing body of Lake Washington Institute of Technology. Trustees are appointed to multi-year terms by the Governor with the consent of the State Senate. The Trustees represent communities in the service area of LWTech including Bellevue, Bothell, Carnation, Duvall, Fall City, Issaquah, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Redmond, Skykomish, Snoqualmie, and Woodinville.
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Anne Hamilton
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Lynette D. Jones
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Darrell S. Mitsunaga
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Robert Malte
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Laura Wildfong
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Our Mission and Core Themes
Mission
To prepare students for today’s careers and tomorrow’s opportunities.
Core Themes
In support of our mission, the following core themes state the essential work done at LWTech:
Pathways
Lake Washington Institute of Technology is accessible to the community by providing multiple entrance points and educational pathways. The college is a conduit for students to upgrade their skills, transition into new careers, or further their education and training.
Student Achievement
At Lake Washington Institute of Technology, students gain the skills and knowledge needed to achieve their educational goals and to participate in the workforce.
External Engagement
Lake Washington Institute of Technology forms partnerships with governmental and community organizations, educational institutions, business, and labor in order to support the institution’s mission.
College Community
Lake Washington Institute of Technology provides a safe, supported and engaging learning environment for students and work environment for faculty and staff.
Lake Washington Institute of Technology is committed to providing equal access for students with disabilities. Information about instructional accommodations and equipment is available from the Disability Support Services coordinator, (425)739-8116 or TDD 711 (Washington Relay).
Lake Washington Institute of Technology values equality of opportunity, human dignity, racial, cultural and ethnic diversity both as an educational institution and as an employer. The college provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race or ethnicity, creed, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, genetic information, or veteran status. The college complies with applicable laws prohibiting discrimination and harassment in employment, educational programs and admissions, including Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination Act and the state law against discrimination, chapter 49.60 RCW. LWTech.edu/eo
Inquiries regarding compliance procedures and complaints may be directed to the college’s Affirmative Action Officer: Meena Park, Executive Director of Human Resources, Affirmative Action Officer/Title IX Coordinator, 11605 132nd AVE NE, Kirkland, WA 98034, meena.park@lwtech.edu, (425) 739-8212 or 711 (Washington Relay).
About Lake Washington Institute of Technology
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
Founded in 1949, Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) is one of Washington State’s 34 public community and technical institutions of higher education. We offer affordable, professional technical training for today’s careers and tomorrow’s opportunities. LWTech offers training in more than 40 areas of study and offers professional/technical certificates, associate degrees, and applied bachelor’s degrees.
Our training options include
in the following schools and areas of study:
Centrally located in Washington State’s high tech corridor, the Institute has more than 350 experienced faculty members and serves nearly 7,000 students each year.
Lake Washington Tech features small class sizes, highly skilled faculty, and hands-on training. We have the current tools, programs, software, and other equipment students will use on the job. Our programs provide students with high tech, comprehensive training designed to help open doors to numerous career opportunities.
Whether you recently graduated high school, are looking to take your skills to the next level, want to begin a new career, or expand your education, LWTech provides a pathway to begin your journey to career success.
Accreditation
LWTech is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities at the associate degree level and at the baccalaureate degree level. For more information on this accreditation go to LWTech.edu/accreditation.
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
8060 165th Avenue NE, Suite 100
Redmond, WA 98052-3981
Specialized Program Accreditations and Certifications
Several of LWTech’s technical programs receive accreditation or certification status from state and national organizations:
| Automotive |
National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation |
| Dental Assistant and Dental Hygiene |
Commission on Dental Accreditation |
| Certified Nursing Assistant |
Washington State Department of Social and Human Services/Washington State Department of Health |
| Culinary Arts |
American Culinary Federation |
| Funeral Service Education |
American Board of Funeral Service Education |
| Medical Assisting |
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant |
Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) |
| Physical Therapist Assistant |
Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education |
| Registered Nursing |
Washington State Department of Health; ACEN Accreditation |
About Our Community
LWTech serves the communities of:
- Kirkland
- Redmond
- Bellevue
- Kenmore
- Mercer Island
- Bothell
- Woodinville
- Carnation
- Duvall
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- North Bend
- Fall City
- Sammamish
- Issaquah
- Snoqualmie
- Skykomish
- Clyde Hill
- Medina
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The college’s campus is in the city of Kirkland just east of Lake Washington. The surrounding area offers numerous outdoor recreational opportunities and a wealth of diverse arts, entertainment and cultural attractions. Kirkland is located just 15 miles east of Seattle and less than an hour from the foothills of the Cascade Mountains.
Kirkland has a strong local economy with a healthy mix of small business, corporate headquarters, light industrial and manufacturing and a growing base of high tech, biotech, and home-based businesses. It is also close to the major employment centers of Seattle and Bellevue, and major employers like Boeing, Paccar, and Microsoft.
Address:
11605 132nd Avenue NE
Kirkland, WA 98034
LWTech Foundation
(425) 739-8134 or email foundation@lwtech.edu
The LWTech Foundation supports LWTech’s educational excellence. The Foundation is dedicated to increasing student access and success at LWTech through raising funds, building partnerships, and advocating for students and the college. The Foundation offers scholarships and also provides emergency financial assistance to students with pressing needs through the Student Emergency Fund, which is administered by the Financial Aid Director. LWTech Foundation currently manages a variety of accounts and endowments on behalf of generous donors and college departments for the benefit of students and programs.
A volunteer board of directors comprised of representatives of community, business, industry, and education leaders governs LWTech Foundation. For more information on the LWTechFoundation office, please visit lwtech.edu/foundation.
Selecting a Program of Study
Starting a New Career
Deciding which career is best for you can be a very difficult decision. LWTech’s professional advisers and counselors are available to help you match your interests and abilities with the career that fits you best. The first step in starting your new career decision process is to take a self-inventory of what is most important to you. Below are some of the major things you need to consider:
Your Interests
Your interests play an important role in career selection. When you enjoy what you do, you increase your chances for success because you find your work satisfying and fulfilling.
Your Skills and Abilities
Identify what you are good at and then talk to others about your strengths. Your skills and abilities are the key to knowing yourself better and making a positive career decision. When you enter a program that features your strengths, class work will be easier for you.
Your Work Style
Think about the kind of work structure and the kind of environment you want to work in. Consider the amount of responsibility you want and the amount of stress you can handle. These personal characteristics affect your career success. Think about whether you prefer to work alone or with others, be your own boss, work outdoors, work in a large company or a small business, or interact with the public.
Your Values
You make all kinds of personal value decisions-where to live, what to do for entertainment, what kind of clothes to wear or food to eat. Think about these choices and by assessing them, you will help identify the priorities in your life.
Your Lifestyle
The kind of career you choose can influence the kind of life you live. For example, some health care workers often work weekends, but they find the work rewarding and good for their self-esteem because it fulfills a personal value.
Advising Services
The college’s advisers are available to offer academic and career support to students and prospective students. Appointments are available by calling Student Development at (425) 739-8300. Advising services are also available online, and at advising@lwtech.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Just A Few Classes Or Short-Term Training To Upgrade My Skills?
Yes. Lake Washington Institute of Technology offers a full range of technical higher education options, including individual classes, special short-term training programs, and professional certification preparation options.
Is Financial Aid Available?
Yes. The college participates in many forms of financial aid, including scholarships, loans, and work study opportunities. More financial aid information is available in the Tuition and Financial Aid section of this catalog.
Will I Receive Personal Attention From My Instructors?
A commitment to individualized instruction is one of the aspects that sets LWTech apart from others. Our college features small class sizes and personalized, one-on-one instruction from teachers who truly care about your success.
What Other Educational Options Do You Offer?
We offer online classes, adult basic education, English as a Second Language courses, and adult high school completion courses. For the latest information on the college’s educational offerings, visit our Class Schedule section on the college website at LWTech.edu/classschedule.
How Much Will My Education Cost?
The answer depends upon the program you select and whether you’re working toward a certificate, an AAS degree, a bachelor’s degree or just want to take a few skill-building classes. For more information on program costs, see the Tuition Rates at LWTech.edu/tuition.
What Credentials Will I Receive At The End Of My Program?
LWTech offers programs of study that will lead to Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees, Associate in Applied Science-Transfer (AAS-T) degrees, Direct Transfer/Major Related Program (DTA/MRP) degrees, Bachelor’s of Applied Science degrees, and Certificates of Completion and Proficiency. The length of time to completion varies depending on the program you choose and the number of classes you take each quarter.
How Can I Be Sure I’ll Be Able to Find a Job in the Career Area I Select?
LWTech offers programs of study that are attuned to workforce opportunities, in part because of strong links with business and industry. While we cannot guarantee a job for every graduate, we make every effort to provide relevant training in areas with employment demand.
Will My Degree Or Certificate Be Recognized Among Potential Employers?
Graduates of LWTech are hired because employers recognize their training and skills as valuable. Business and industry leaders serve on the college’s advisory committees to assure the training students receive is of the highest quality.
Can I Get Started At Any Time?
Some programs permit students to enroll any quarter while others admit students once a year. To learn more about when a particular program is open for enrollment, please contact the student development office by calling (425) 739-8300 or emailing advising@lwtech.edu.
How Do I Find Updated Information?
LWTech staff have compiled and organized the material in this catalog to provide you with a comprehensive view of the programs and courses available. It includes academic requirements and procedures necessary for admission and graduation. Information on programs and courses is arranged in alphabetical order. A listing by area of study is also available online.
Because curriculum revisions and program changes may occur during the period the catalog is in circulation, students should contact the college for specific information. Both the programs of study web pages and the Class Schedule are regularly updated online at lwtech.edu.
All announcements in the college catalog are subject to change without notice and do not constitute an agreement between Lake Washington Institute of Technology and the student.
Is LWTech an Accredited College?
LWTech is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Accreditation of an institution of higher education by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of institutional quality evaluated through a peer review process. An accredited college or university is one which has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated purposes through appropriate educational programs, is substantially doing so, and gives reasonable evidence that it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Institutional integrity is also addressed through accreditation.
Accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities is not partial but applies to the institution as a whole. As such, it is not a guarantee of every course or program offered, or the competence of individual graduates. Rather, it provides reasonable assurance about the quality of opportunities available to students who attend the institution.
Inquiries regarding an institution’s accredited status by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:
Northwest Commission on Colleges
and Universities (NWCCU)
8060 165th Avenue NE, Suite 100
Redmond, WA 98052-3981
(425) 558-4224 nwccu.org
For information on specialized accreditations and certificates, see above.
Is There a Way I Can Work On Campus?
Yes. Campus employment is available to students who qualify. Students are encouraged to register with the Employment Resource Center to find on-campus employment opportunities. Positions are available throughout campus through Financial Aid workstudy or Associated Student Government funded positions. If you are eligible for Financial Aid workstudy employment you will be notified by Financial Aid. If you are not eligible for Financial Aid, various campus departments will post their open positions with the Employment Resource Center or have information available in their department. Visit the Employment Resource Center and learn about possibilities.
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