Public community college in Seattle offering associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and career training.
North Seattle College offers associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, university transfer programs, and certificate programs. The college is home to the Watch Technology Institute, the only two-year program in Swiss watchmaking and technology in the western United States. Since 2010, NSC has offered Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree programs for students who have completed a two-year degree. The college provides Running Start programs allowing high school juniors and seniors to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. Ninety percent of full-time faculty hold a master's degree or higher.
The main campus occupies 62 acres in the Licton Springs/North College Park neighborhood of Seattle's Northgate district, five miles north of downtown. The campus includes an indoor arena, physical education facilities, gymnasium, fitness and wellness center, art gallery, bookstore, and computer labs. The college library, founded in 1970, contains over 174,000 volumes and provides access to 40+ databases. The campus features 11 acres of environmentally sensitive wetlands at the South Fork of Thornton Creek, serving as critical habitat for Pacific Tree Frogs, Long-toed salamanders, and various bird and plant species.
North Seattle College offers open admissions for first-time college students, students with prior college experience, and visiting students. The college provides multiple pathways including college transfer, career training, and bachelor's degree programs. Admissions services are available Monday–Thursday 8am–4:30pm and Friday by virtual appointment. The college offers virtual Zoom drop-in sessions and supports undocumented students and international students.
The college emphasizes career preparation through Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and AAS-Transfer (AAS-T) degree programs. NSC provides career services and internship opportunities across multiple disciplines. The college supports student success through advising, tutoring, and the Launch Pad One Stop Student Center. Alumni testimonials highlight career advancement in fields including early childhood education, international business, and public service.