Highline Community College (Highline)

3240 Fort Rd, Toppenish, WA

About
Highline Community College, located in Des Moines, Washington, was founded in 1961 and was the first such institution within King County.The school opened to nominal enrollment, though the number quickly grew, requiring the school to expand over the years. The resulting expansion has allowed the school to currently serve over 10,000 full time students yearly. HCC offers programs that allow for academic and career advancement, and is constantly reviewing these programs as well as facilities and services to ensure that the needs of modern students are met and a high standard of quality maintained.

Academics
Highline Community College offers a large number of programs that allow students to choose a career or academic path that reflects the student's goals and needs. Career programs provide skill development and training in a particular field and prepare the individual to enter the workforce as a qualified professional. Programs take between one and two years to complete and individuals who have completed a program are capable of performing the duties and tasks required, having earned a certificate or degree which demonstrates competency and allows for employment at the entry level.

Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education and then apply to a college or university, transferring credits and completing the final two years of a bachelor's degree in their desired field.Public schools in Washington will have agreements in place that ease the transfer process, particularly for residents. For individuals wishing to attend private or out of state schools It is recommended they consult a counselor to develop a curriculum that best fulfills the transfer requirements of the student's desired school or schools.

Programs offered include:

• Criminal Justice
• Astronomy
• Business Administration
• Education
• History

The school also offers continuing education courses for professionals wishing to renew certification or licensure, or wishing to update their knowledge base. Adult education courses assist in the completion of a high school education for those who had forgone it in the past. Additionally, residents may take individual noncredit courses for personal benefit and enjoyment.

Admissions and Financial Aid
Highline Community College is an open enrollment institution, allowing any students who meets the minimum requirements for entry to register by submitting an application and paying tuition. Students must supply transcripts, test scores, and any other pertinent information prior to registration. Additionally, students may also be required to take a placement exam. New students are encouraged to participate in student orientation to gain information about student life, as well as meet with a counselor to discuss personal and professional goals and develop an academic curriculum.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. Students in need of assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used to determine need, eligibility and awards. Aid must be reapplied for prior to the start of each semester. Financial aid recipients may be asked to provide additional information to verify the accuracy of their FAFSA due to new federal regulations regarding financial aid. Students may also seek scholarships from external sources. Such scholarships are awarded for many different reasons, each requiring a certain criterion to be considered and a separate application to be submitted.