| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) is a public technical college in Kirkland, Washington, USA. It is the only public institute of technology in Washington state and offers a variety of associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and professional certificates in technical and workforce-focused fields.
Location: Kirkland, Washington
Founded: 1949
Type: Public technical college
Accreditation: Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Campus: Located in the Seattle metropolitan area, providing access to major tech hubs
Website: N/A
LWTech offers a wide range of programs in various fields, including:
Technology & Engineering (Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Software Development)
Health Sciences (Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Physical Therapist Assistant)
Business & Design (Marketing, Accounting, Graphic Design)
Manufacturing & Transportation (Welding, Automotive Repair, Machining)
Culinary Arts & Hospitality
The college also provides apprenticeships, professional certificates, and continuing education programs for workforce training.
Strong industry connections (proximity to companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing)
Hands-on learning with modern labs and real-world projects
Affordable tuition compared to four-year universities
Flexible learning options, including online and hybrid courses
1. Information Technology & Engineering
Computer Science (Associate/Bachelor’s)
Cybersecurity
Software Development (Associate/Bachelor’s)
Networking & IT Support
Engineering Technology
2. Health Sciences
Nursing (RN, BSN, LPN-to-RN Bridge Program)
Dental Hygiene (Bachelor’s degree)
Physical Therapist Assistant
Medical Assisting
Occupational Therapy Assistant
3. Business & Design
Accounting
Marketing & Entrepreneurship
Graphic Design
Interior Design
Digital Gaming & Interactive Media
4. Manufacturing, Transportation & Trades
Welding Technology
Machining Technology
Automotive Technology
Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology
5. Culinary, Hospitality & Baking
Culinary Arts
Baking & Pastry Arts
Hospitality Management
6. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)
Biology (for Pre-Med, Pre-Dental, Pre-Pharmacy)
Environmental Sciences
Applied Design
7. Applied Bachelor’s Degree Programs
LWTech offers Applied Bachelor’s degrees (BAS – Bachelor of Applied Science) in:
Design
Dental Hygiene
Public Health
Behavioral Healthcare
Information Technology: Computing & Software Development
8. Apprenticeships & Workforce Training
LWTech also partners with local industries to offer apprenticeships in trades like:
Electrical work
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Construction
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Applied Bachelor in Design |
4 Years |
$25,000 (International), $7,000 (Domestic) |
|
Bachelor of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene |
4 Years |
$25,000 (International), $7,000 (Domestic) |
|
Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Health |
4 Years |
$25,000 (International), $7,000 (Domestic) |
|
Bachelor of Applied Science in Behavioral Healthcare |
4 Years |
$25,000 (International), $7,000 (Domestic) |
|
Bachelor of Applied Science in IT: Computing & Software Development |
4 Years |
$25,000 (International), $7,000 (Domestic) |
Affordable tuition compared to universities
STEM & career-focused programs with strong job prospects
Close to Seattle’s tech industry (Microsoft, Amazon, Google)
Small class sizes & hands-on learning
Support services for international students
International students can enroll in:
Applied Bachelor’s Degrees (e.g., IT, Design, Public Health)
Associate Degrees (2-year programs)
Professional Certificates (short-term skill-based training)
English as a Second Language (ESL) Program
No Master’s or PhD programs are offered at LWTech
Completed high school (12th grade or equivalent)
Minimum GPA of 2.0 or higher
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or ESL placement test)
Valid passport & student visa (F-1 visa)
Test Name |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL iBT |
61 or higher |
|
IELTS |
6.0 or higher |
|
Duolingo |
95 or higher |
|
ESL Program |
Available for students needing English improvement |
Students who do not meet English requirements can join LWTech’s ESL (English as a Second Language) program.
LWTech has an open-door admission policy, meaning most programs do not require SAT/ACT scores. However, some selective programs (e.g., Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Applied Bachelor’s Degrees) have additional requirements.
High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
Completed LWTech online application
English proficiency proof (for international students)
Program-specific requirements (if applicable)
If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose a Program
Check available programs at www.lwtech.edu/programs
Select a degree, certificate, or workforce training program
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Apply online at LWTech Admissions
No application fee for most programs
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
High school transcripts (for selective programs)
College transcripts (if transferring credits)
Step 4: Placement Testing (If Required)
Some students may need to take math and English placement tests
SAT/ACT scores are NOT required
Step 5: Register for Classes & Pay Tuition
Meet with an academic advisor
Enroll in courses via the LWTech Student Portal
Pay tuition before the deadline
Application Deadlines: Rolling admissions (apply anytime)
If you are an international student, follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose a Program
Review programs at www.lwtech.edu/international
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
Apply at LWTech International Admissions
Application fee: $50 (non-refundable)
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Copy of passport (photo page)
High school transcripts (translated into English)
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or ESL placement test)
Bank statement ($24,000 minimum) to show financial ability
Sponsor form (if applicable)
Step 4: Receive I-20 Form & Pay SEVIS Fee
LWTech will issue the I-20 Form after reviewing your documents
Pay the SEVIS Fee ($350) at
Step 5: Apply for a U.S. Student Visa (F-1 Visa)
Schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in your country
Bring I-20 Form, SEVIS receipt, and financial documents
Attend the interview and get your visa approved
Step 6: Travel to the U.S. & Attend Orientation
Arrive before the start of the academic quarter
Attend international student orientation
LWTech follows a quarterly intake system, meaning students can start their studies in Fall, Winter, Spring, or Summer.
Quarter (Term) |
Application Deadline (International Students) |
Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (September) |
July 1 |
Late September |
|
Winter (January) |
October 15 |
Early January |
|
Spring (April) |
February 1 |
Early April |
|
Summer (July) |
May 1 |
Early July |
Domestic students can apply up to 2 weeks before the quarter starts
International students must apply early to allow time for visa processing
High school diploma (12th grade) or equivalent (GED)
Minimum GPA: 2.0 or higher (varies by program)
English proficiency proof (for international students)
Placement tests (if required) for math and English
Program Type |
Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
|
Applied Bachelor’s Degrees (BAS) |
- Associate degree (or 90 college credits) required |
|
Associate Degrees (AA, AS, AAS) |
- High school diploma or equivalent |
|
Certificate Programs |
- Open to high school graduates |
|
Nursing & Dental Hygiene |
- Separate application process |
|
English as a Second Language (ESL) |
- No TOEFL/IELTS required |
LWTech Foundation offers over 100 scholarships each year for new and continuing students.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LWTech Foundation General Scholarship |
Open to all students (domestic & international) |
$500 - $3,000 |
Twice a year (Spring & Fall) |
|
Merit-Based Scholarship |
Minimum GPA 3.0, must be enrolled in at least 6 credits |
$1,000 - $3,000 |
Spring & Fall |
|
Financial Need-Based Scholarship |
Requires FAFSA/WASFA or financial proof (for international students) |
$500 - $2,500 |
Spring & Fall |
|
Program-Specific Scholarships |
Available for Nursing, IT, Engineering, and other programs |
$1,000 - $3,000 |
N/A |
|
Diversity & Equity Scholarship |
Supports underrepresented students (women in STEM, first-generation students, etc.) |
$1,000 - $2,500 |
Spring & Fall |
How to Apply? Submit an online application at LWTech Foundation Scholarships
International students are eligible for LWTech Foundation Scholarships and can also apply for external scholarships.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LWTech Foundation Scholarship |
Open to all international students |
$500 - $3,000 |
Spring & Fall |
|
Global Student Scholarship |
Must have completed at least 1 quarter at LWTech, GPA 3.0+ |
$1,000 - $2,000 |
N/A |
|
International Student Tuition Waiver |
Partial tuition discount for outstanding students |
Up to 25% tuition reduction |
N/A |
|
PEO International Peace Scholarship |
Women students from outside the U.S. |
Up to $12,500 |
December |
|
United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarship |
UWC graduates enrolling at LWTech |
N/A |
N/A |
LWTech provides state-of-the-art facilities to support student learning and career development.
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Library & Learning Commons |
Study spaces, research resources, and tutoring services |
|
Computer & IT Labs |
High-tech computer labs for IT, software development, and cybersecurity students |
|
Health Sciences Labs |
Advanced labs for nursing, dental hygiene, and physical therapy programs |
|
Makerspace & Innovation Lab |
3D printing, engineering tools, and robotics for hands-on projects |
|
Culinary Arts Kitchen & Bakery |
Professional kitchen and café for culinary students |
|
Student Lounge & Recreation Area |
Spaces for relaxation, socializing, and student activities |
|
Career Services Center |
Job placement, internships, and resume assistance |
|
Fitness & Wellness Center |
Gym, yoga classes, and wellness programs |
Campus Location: 11605 132nd Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034, USA
Since LWTech does not have dormitories, students must find off-campus housing. Below are the available options:
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Estimated Cost (Per Month, USD) |
Estimated Cost (Per Year, USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Off-Campus Apartments (Studio/1-Bedroom) |
Private apartments near campus, fully furnished or unfurnished |
$1,500 - $2,200 |
$18,000 - $26,400 |
|
Shared Apartments (Roommate Housing) |
Shared living space with other students |
$800 - $1,500 |
$9,600 - $18,000 |
|
Homestay (Living with a Host Family) |
Private room, includes meals and utilities |
$900 - $1,200 (meals included) |
$10,800 - $14,400 |
|
Student Housing Services (Like Airbnb, Rentals) |
Short-term or long-term rentals |
$1,200 - $1,800 |
$14,400 - $21,600 |
Additional Costs:
Utilities (electricity, water, internet): $100 - $200/month
Public transportation pass: $100/month
LWTech has a diverse student body, including local, international, and working students. The college promotes an inclusive and supportive environment, where students can engage in various activities while balancing their studies.
What makes LWTech unique?
Small class sizes for personalized learning
Hands-on training and real-world experience
Friendly and diverse campus community
Proximity to Seattle's tech industry (Microsoft, Amazon, Google, etc.)
LWTech encourages students to join or create clubs to explore interests, develop leadership skills, and meet new people. Popular student clubs include:
Student Government (ASG) – Represents student interests and organizes events
Cultural & International Club – Connects international and domestic students
STEM & Tech Club – For students interested in coding, robotics, and engineering
Health & Wellness Club – Promotes fitness, mental health, and well-being
LGBTQ+ & Diversity Club – Supports inclusivity and cultural awareness
Gaming & Esports Club – A space for gamers to compete and socialize
Environmental & Sustainability Club – Focuses on green initiatives and eco-friendly projects
Students can also start their own clubs based on their interests!
LWTech organizes fun and educational events throughout the year, such as:
Welcome Week & Orientation – Helps new students transition to college life
Cultural Festivals & International Days – Celebrates diversity on campus
Career Fairs & Networking Events – Connects students with employers
Workshops & Guest Speaker Series – Covers topics like resume building, leadership, and technology trends
Esports & Gaming Tournaments – Competitive gaming events for students
Art & Design Exhibitions – Showcases student creativity in graphic design and digital media
LWTech does not have varsity sports teams, but students can enjoy:
Fitness Center & Gym Access – Equipped with cardio and weightlifting equipment
Yoga & Wellness Classes – Offered through student clubs and wellness programs
Outdoor Activities & Hiking – Kirkland has many scenic parks and trails for biking and walking
Community Sports Leagues – Students can join local soccer, basketball, and volleyball leagues
As a career-focused institution, LWTech provides strong career services to help students transition into the workforce.
Career Services Center – Helps with resumes, interviews, and job search strategies
Internships & Apprenticeships – Opportunities with companies like Microsoft, Boeing, and Amazon
Work-Study Programs – Allows students to earn while they learn
Industry Networking Events – Connects students with professionals in their field
Many students find internships and part-time jobs in Seattle’s booming tech and business sectors!
Campus Café & Bakery – Run by culinary students, offering fresh meals and baked goods
Nearby Restaurants & Cafés – Kirkland has a variety of dining options, including fast food, coffee shops, and international cuisine
Grocery Stores – Several supermarkets and international markets are within a short distance
Students living in apartments often cook at home, and there are many food delivery options available.
LWTech offers various support services to ensure students succeed academically and personally.
Tutoring & Study Support – Free tutoring for math, writing, and science subjects
Health & Counseling Services – Provides mental health support and well-being resources
Technology Assistance – Helps students with IT issues and software access
Housing Assistance – Guides students on off-campus housing options
International Student Support – Helps with visa, cultural adjustment, and academic advising
Kirkland is a safe and student-friendly city with easy access to Seattle’s job market and entertainment scene.
Public Transport: Well-connected bus routes to Seattle, Bellevue, and Redmond
Outdoor Activities: Beaches, parks, and hiking trails for nature lovers
Entertainment & Shopping: Malls, theaters, and music festivals nearby
1. Job Placement Rate & Career Success
85%+ job placement rate within six months of graduation (varies by program).
Many students find high-paying jobs in tech, healthcare, and engineering fields.
Located in Seattle’s tech hub, providing access to major employers like Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, Google, and Starbucks.
2. Top Hiring Companies for LWTech Graduates
LWTech graduates are hired by leading companies and industries in the region, including:
Technology & IT
Microsoft
Amazon
Google
T-Mobile
Facebook (Meta)
Nintendo of America
Healthcare & Medical
Kaiser Permanente
Providence Health & Services
EvergreenHealth
Seattle Children’s Hospital
Engineering & Manufacturing
Boeing
Tesla
PACCAR (Kenworth Trucks)
Business & Design
Starbucks (Corporate Office)
Expedia Group
Nordstrom
3. Career Services & Job Placement Support
LWTech provides comprehensive career support to help students secure jobs after graduation.
A) Career Services Center
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Helps students create professional job applications.
Mock Interviews & Job Coaching – Prepares students for real-world interviews.
Job Search Support – Guides students in finding internships and full-time jobs.
B) Internships & Apprenticeships
Paid and unpaid internships available for students in IT, healthcare, business, and engineering.
Partnerships with local companies help students gain real-world work experience before graduation.
On-the-job training programs for trade and technical fields (automotive, welding, machining, etc.).
C) Job Fairs & Networking Events
LWTech hosts career fairs where students can meet hiring employers.
Industry networking events allow students to connect with professionals in their field.
4. Salary Expectations for LWTech Graduates
LWTech graduates earn competitive salaries depending on their industry and job role.
Industry |
Average Salary (Per Year, USD) |
|---|---|
|
Software Development & IT |
$70,000 - $120,000 |
|
Cybersecurity |
$75,000 - $110,000 |
|
Engineering & Manufacturing |
$65,000 - $100,000 |
|
Nursing & Healthcare |
$60,000 - $95,000 |
|
Business & Marketing |
$50,000 - $85,000 |
|
Automotive & Skilled Trades |
$45,000 - $80,000 |
Salaries vary based on job role, experience, and company.
5. High-Demand Programs & Job Opportunities
Certain programs at LWTech have higher job placement rates due to demand in the job market:
A) High-Demand Programs at LWTech
Bachelor of Applied Science in IT: Computing & Software Development – High demand for software engineers.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Health – Jobs in hospitals, clinics, and public health organizations.
Cybersecurity & Network Technology – High demand for security analysts and IT specialists.
Nursing (RN, BSN) – Strong job market for registered nurses.
Automotive Repair & Welding Technology – Hands-on careers in mechanical and industrial fields.
B) Fast-Growing Careers in Seattle Region
Software Engineers & IT Specialists
Registered Nurses & Healthcare Workers
Data Analysts & Cybersecurity Experts
Business Analysts & Marketing Professionals
6. Work-Study & Part-Time Jobs
LWTech students can gain work experience while studying through:
On-Campus Work-Study Programs – Part-time jobs available in libraries, labs, and administrative offices.
Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs – Opportunities in retail, restaurants, and tech support in Kirkland & Seattle.
Paid Internships – Available through partnerships with local companies.
International students (F-1 visa holders) can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus and apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training) after graduation.
LWTech has an 85%+ job placement rate in high-demand industries.
Strong partnerships with top employers like Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, and hospitals.
Internships, apprenticeships, and career fairs help students gain real-world experience.
Competitive salaries in tech, healthcare, and engineering fields.
Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) has an open-door admission policy, meaning almost all qualified applicants are accepted.
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 100% (for most programs)
What does this mean?
LWTech accepts all students who meet the basic admission requirements.
No SAT/ACT scores are required.
Some competitive programs (like Nursing & Dental Hygiene) have selective admissions with additional requirements.
High school diploma (or equivalent GED)
Minimum GPA of 2.0 (some programs require 2.5+)
English proficiency proof (for international students)
No standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) required
Competitive Programs:
Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Bachelor’s Degrees require a higher GPA and additional prerequisites.
Main Campus Address:
Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech)
11605 132nd Avenue NE,
Kirkland, WA 98034,
United States
