Whatcom Community College Campuses

Whatcom Community College offers a wide array of programs designed to meet the educational needs of diverse students in the Pacific Northwest. As a comprehensive community college, it provides associate degrees, certificates, and preparatory courses for transfer to four-year universities. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, critical thinking, and career readiness across various disciplines.

• Arts and Humanities: Students can pursue Associate of Arts (AA) degrees with emphases in visual arts, performing arts, music, theater, and literature. Courses include drawing, painting, digital media, music theory, and world languages such as Spanish, French, and Japanese. These programs foster creativity and cultural awareness, preparing students for careers in design, education, or further studies in liberal arts.
• Business and Computer Science: The Business Administration program offers training in accounting, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. Computer science courses cover programming in languages like Python and Java, web development, cybersecurity, and data analytics. Certificates in office administration and Microsoft Office applications are popular for immediate workforce entry.
• Health Professions: Specialized tracks include nursing (Associate Degree in Nursing), medical assisting, phlebotomy, and dental hygiene assisting. Anatomy, physiology, and clinical practicums ensure hands-on experience. These programs align with healthcare demands in Whatcom County and beyond, leading to licensure and employment in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM): Rigorous courses in biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and mathematics support pre-engineering and pre-med tracks. Engineering technology programs focus on drafting, electronics, and renewable energy. Labs and fieldwork emphasize research skills, with opportunities for internships in local tech industries.
• Social Sciences and Education: Degrees in psychology, sociology, anthropology, history, and early childhood education prepare students for social services, teaching, or transfer. Courses explore human behavior, cultural studies, and child development, including practicums in local schools and community organizations.
• Workforce and Continuing Education: Short-term certificates in welding, automotive technology, culinary arts, and sustainable agriculture cater to vocational interests. ESL and GED preparation classes support adult learners, while community education offers non-credit workshops in hobbies like photography and fitness.

Overall, Whatcom's small class sizes and dedicated faculty create a supportive learning environment. With transfer agreements to universities like Western Washington University, students achieve seamless progression. The college's commitment to equity ensures accessible education for all, promoting lifelong learning and economic vitality in the region. Programs evolve with industry needs, incorporating online and hybrid formats for flexibility. Graduates contribute to Bellingham's vibrant economy in tech, healthcare, and creative sectors, embodying the college's motto of excellence in education.