Bellevue College, formerly known as Bellevue Community College, enrolls more than 37,000 students each year and is the state's third largest higher learning institution, according to the college's website. Bellevue began offering baccalaureate degrees in 2008; the majority of the school's graduates earn two-year associate degrees. Technical programs at Bellevue include animation, radiation therapy, business technology and interior design. To earn an associate degree at Bellevue, students must earn more than 90 credits, while the school's certificate programs range from 19 to 89 credits required. The Center for Career Connections at Bellevue provides support to current students and graduates seeking internship and employment opportunities.
Known as Bellevue Beauty School until 2008, Evergreen Beauty College offers programs of study in cosmetology and esthetics. Evergreen's cosmetology program requires 1,800 clock hours and trains students to cut, style and color hair. Students attend lectures, view demonstrations and complete lab work to prepare for an entry-level position in a salon. The esthetics program at Evergreen requires 600 clock hours on topics such as first aid, hair removal, makeup and microdermabrasion. Students also work with the most current products and equipment during their training for an entry-level position in the field. Evergreen Beauty College is located near Highway 520 in the Highlands neighborhood of Bellevue.
The Center for Healing Arts at Bellevue Massage School offers seven-month programs in massage therapy. Classes are limited to 12 students to provide personalized instruction at the school and are offered in the mornings or evenings, with additional weekend sessions. Core subjects at Bellevue Massage School include anatomy and physiology, pathology, kinesiology and massage theory and practice. Clinics provide hands-on experience for students to work with clients in a supervised atmosphere. In addition to core subjects, students may choose from a variety of specialized courses, such as carpal tunnel prevention, reflexology, sports massage, hydrotherapy and whiplash. After graduation, students must pass an exam before obtaining a license from the Department of Health to practice as a massage practitioner.
Lake Washington Technical College serves the greater Bellevue area and is located five miles north of the city limits in Kirkland near Interstate 405. Founded in 1949, the school offers 38 programs of study leading to over 100 technical and professional degrees and certificates. Technical programs available at LWTC include applied design, computer technology, hospitality, manufacturing and transportation technology. LWTC has an Employment Resource Center to provide job search assistance and employment resources to students, alumni and community members.