What Colleges Are on Mercer Island: A Quick Guide

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September 7, 2023

Mercer Island, located in King County, Washington, is a beautiful city surrounded by Lake Washington. It has a population of around 22,000 and is known for its high quality of life. The city is home to a number of colleges and universities, making it an attractive destination for students looking to further their education.

There are at least 30 colleges and universities serving the Mercer Island area, including private and public institutions as well as community colleges. Some of the closest colleges to Mercer Island include Bellevue College, Seattle Pacific University, and Northwest University. Students can choose from a variety of programs and degrees, ranging from two-year associate degrees to four-year bachelor’s degrees and beyond.

Mercer Island has been recognized as one of the best cities in the nation for students seeking an affordable education. In College Factual’s 2019 college ranking analysis, Mercer Island was named as one of the best value colleges in the country. With its proximity to Seattle and a range of educational opportunities, Mercer Island is an excellent choice for students looking to pursue higher education.

Overview of Mercer Island

Mercer Island is a city located in King County, Washington, with a population of around 22,699 people. The city is situated on an island of the same name, which is located in the southern portion of Lake Washington. Mercer Island is known for its natural beauty, with stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

The city is a popular residential area, with a thriving community and a high quality of life. Mercer Island is also home to several excellent schools, including Mercer Island High School, which is consistently ranked as one of the best high schools in the state.

In addition to its excellent schools, Mercer Island is also home to several colleges and universities. These institutions offer a range of programs and courses, from undergraduate degrees to graduate programs and professional certifications.

The following table lists some of the colleges and universities located near Mercer Island:

College/UniversityDistance from Mercer Island
Seattle University6.5 miles
University of Washington7.5 miles
Seattle Pacific University8.5 miles
Bellevue College8.9 miles
Northwest University9.2 miles

Overall, Mercer Island is a great place to live, work, and study. With its beautiful natural surroundings, strong community, and excellent educational opportunities, it is no wonder that so many people choose to call this city home.

Colleges on Mercer Island

Mercer Island is a small city located in King County, Washington, surrounded by Lake Washington. The city is well-known for its excellent schools, including six schools in the Mercer Island School District. However, there are no colleges or universities located on Mercer Island.

The nearest college is Bellevue College, located in Bellevue, which is approximately four miles from Mercer Island. It is a public community college that offers a range of associate degrees and certificates in various fields, including business, healthcare, and technology. Students can also transfer to a four-year university after completing their two-year degree at Bellevue College.

Another top-rated college in the area is the University of Washington Seattle Campus, located in Seattle, which is ranked #78 in the nation by CollegeSimply. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including business, engineering, and social sciences. The campus is located approximately nine miles from Mercer Island.

There are at least thirty colleges serving the area, including sixteen private colleges and universities, thirteen public colleges and universities, and one community college offering two-year degrees. Some of the other colleges located near Mercer Island include Seattle University, Seattle Central College, and Antioch University Seattle.

Overall, while there are no colleges on Mercer Island, students have access to a variety of colleges and universities located nearby. Whether they choose to attend a community college or a four-year university, students can find an institution that meets their educational needs and career goals.

Mercer Island College

Unfortunately, there is no college located directly on Mercer Island. However, there are several colleges in the surrounding area that are easily accessible by car or public transportation.

One of the closest colleges to Mercer Island is Bellevue College, located in Bellevue, just four miles away. This college offers a variety of associate degree programs, as well as bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as healthcare, business, and computer science.

Another highly-rated college in the area is the University of Washington Seattle Campus, located in Seattle, just a short drive from Mercer Island. This college is ranked #78 in the nation by CollegeSimply and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including programs in engineering, education, and social sciences.

There are also many other colleges and universities located near Mercer Island, including both public and private institutions. Some of these colleges and universities include:

  • Seattle University
  • Seattle Pacific University
  • Pacific Lutheran University
  • Northwest University
  • Cornish College of the Arts
  • Seattle Central College
  • North Seattle College

Overall, while there is no college located directly on Mercer Island, there are many great options available in the surrounding area for students who are looking to pursue higher education.

Bellevue College, Mercer Island Campus

Bellevue College is a public college located in Bellevue, Washington. It is the largest of the 34 institutions that make up the Washington Community and Technical Colleges system. Bellevue College has a satellite campus located in Mercer Island, which offers a variety of courses and programs to students.

The Mercer Island campus is conveniently located for students who live in the area. It is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The campus offers a range of academic programs, including transfer degrees, professional and technical programs, and continuing education courses.

Bellevue College’s Mercer Island campus provides a supportive learning environment for students. The campus features modern facilities, including classrooms, computer labs, and a library. Students can also take advantage of the college’s advising, tutoring, and counseling services.

The Mercer Island campus offers a variety of programs and courses to meet the needs of different students. For example, students can take courses in business, computer science, health sciences, and more. The campus also offers a number of transfer degrees, which allow students to complete their first two years of college at Bellevue College before transferring to a four-year university.

Overall, Bellevue College’s Mercer Island campus is a great option for students who want to pursue higher education in a supportive environment close to home. With its range of programs and services, the campus provides students with the tools they need to succeed in their academic and professional goals.

Community Colleges Near Mercer Island

Mercer Island is a small island located in King County, Washington. Although there are no community colleges located directly on Mercer Island, there are several community colleges located nearby that are easily accessible by car or public transportation.

The nearest community college is Renton Technical College, located in Renton, just 6 miles away from Mercer Island. Renton Technical College offers a variety of programs, including technical and vocational training, as well as academic transfer programs. Driving time to the college from Mercer Island should be less than 15 minutes.

Another nearby community college is Bellevue College, located in Bellevue, approximately 8 miles away from Mercer Island. Bellevue College offers a wide range of programs, including academic transfer programs and technical and vocational training. The college is accessible by car and public transportation, and driving time from Mercer Island should be less than 20 minutes.

Other community colleges located near Mercer Island include Green River College, located in Auburn, and Highline College, located in Des Moines. Both colleges offer a variety of programs and are accessible by car and public transportation.

Overall, while there are no community colleges located directly on Mercer Island, there are several community colleges located nearby that offer a variety of programs and are easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Seattle Central College

Seattle Central College is a public community college located in Capitol Hill, Seattle, Washington. It is one of the three colleges that make up the Seattle Colleges District, which serves metropolitan Seattle and surrounding communities. The college offers a wide range of programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and certificates.

Seattle Central College is known for its diverse student population and its commitment to equity and inclusion. The college’s mission is to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality education to all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.

The college offers a variety of academic and career-oriented programs, including business, healthcare, information technology, culinary arts, and more. Students can choose from over 60 programs of study, and the college also offers online courses and hybrid programs for students who need more flexibility.

Seattle Central College is also home to a number of student organizations and clubs, including the Associated Student Council, the Queer Straight Alliance, and the International Student Association. These groups provide students with opportunities to get involved on campus, meet new people, and develop leadership skills.

Overall, Seattle Central College is a great option for students who are looking for a high-quality education in a diverse and inclusive environment. With its wide range of programs, affordable tuition, and commitment to student success, Seattle Central College is a great choice for anyone who wants to pursue their educational and career goals in the heart of Seattle.

Renton Technical College

Renton Technical College (RTC) is a public technical college located in Renton, Washington, United States. RTC offers a wide range of programs and courses, including certificate and associate degree programs, designed to provide students with marketable job skills or an upgrade of current skill sets.

RTC has a diverse student body, with students from various backgrounds and age groups. The college offers a supportive learning environment and strives to help students succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.

The college offers programs in various fields, including Business Management, Culinary Arts, Healthcare, Information Technology, Manufacturing, and Transportation. Some of the popular programs at RTC include:

  • Business Management: This program is designed to provide students with skills and experience in the highly competitive fields of business support, management, and entrepreneurship.
  • Culinary Arts: This program prepares students for careers in the culinary industry by providing hands-on training in cooking techniques, food safety, and menu planning.
  • Healthcare: This program offers training in various healthcare fields, including nursing, medical assisting, and pharmacy technician.
  • Information Technology: This program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers in the IT industry, including network administration, cybersecurity, and software development.

RTC also offers a variety of support services to help students succeed, including tutoring, career counseling, and financial aid assistance. The college has a strong reputation for providing quality education and has been recognized as one of the best community colleges in the state of Washington.

Benefits of Studying on Mercer Island

Studying on Mercer Island has several benefits that can make a student’s academic journey more enjoyable and successful. Here are a few reasons why:

Convenient Location

Mercer Island is located in the heart of the Seattle metropolitan area, making it a convenient location for students who want to be close to the city’s cultural and social scene. The island is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and students can take advantage of the many opportunities that Seattle has to offer.

High-Quality Education

Mercer Island is home to several top-rated schools, including Mercer Island High School and Islander Middle School. These schools offer rigorous academic programs and a wide range of extracurricular activities, giving students the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their skills.

Safe and Welcoming Community

Mercer Island is known for its safe and welcoming community, making it an ideal place for students to live and study. The island has a low crime rate and a strong sense of community, with many local events and activities that bring residents together.

Access to Outdoor Recreation

Mercer Island is surrounded by natural beauty, with parks, beaches, and hiking trails just a short distance away. Students can take advantage of the island’s many outdoor recreation opportunities, including swimming, kayaking, and hiking, to stay active and healthy while they study.

Opportunities for Career Development

Mercer Island is home to several businesses and organizations that offer internships and job opportunities for students. These opportunities can provide valuable experience and help students develop the skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers.

Overall, studying on Mercer Island offers students a unique combination of academic excellence, community support, and access to the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Academic Opportunities

Mercer Island, Washington, is home to several colleges and universities that offer a wide range of academic opportunities to students. With 22 different colleges and universities in the area, students have plenty of options to choose from.

The colleges and universities in Mercer Island offer a variety of degree programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees. Some of the most popular degree programs include business, engineering, computer science, and health sciences.

In addition to traditional degree programs, many colleges and universities in Mercer Island also offer online and hybrid courses, allowing students to complete their coursework on their own schedule. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for students who work part-time or have other commitments outside of school.

Many of the colleges and universities in Mercer Island also offer research opportunities to students. Research opportunities can be a great way for students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study and prepare for careers in research and development.

Overall, the academic opportunities available in Mercer Island are diverse and plentiful, providing students with a wealth of options to pursue their academic and career goals.

Student Life on Mercer Island

Mercer Island is a beautiful place to live, work, and study. The island is home to a diverse community of students, families, and professionals. Students who attend colleges on Mercer Island have access to a wide range of activities and resources to enhance their academic and personal lives.

Campus Life

The colleges on Mercer Island offer a variety of campus life activities for students. These activities range from sports and fitness programs to cultural events and clubs. Students can participate in intramural sports, join a dance or theater group, or attend a lecture or concert. The colleges also have student government organizations that provide leadership opportunities and help students get involved in campus life.

Off-Campus Life

Mercer Island is located near Seattle and Bellevue, which offer a wealth of cultural, recreational, and social activities. Students can take advantage of the many museums, theaters, and music venues in the area. They can also explore the outdoors by hiking, biking, or skiing in the nearby mountains. The island itself has several parks and beaches that are perfect for picnics, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

Housing

Most students who attend colleges on Mercer Island live off-campus in apartments or houses. The island has a variety of rental options, from small studios to large family homes. The cost of living on Mercer Island is higher than in some other areas, but students can find affordable housing if they are willing to share a place with roommates.

Transportation

Getting around Mercer Island is easy, thanks to the island’s well-developed transportation system. Students can take buses or light rail to Seattle or Bellevue, or they can use the island’s bike paths and sidewalks to get around. Many students also choose to bring their own cars to the island, as parking is generally plentiful.

In summary, students who attend colleges on Mercer Island have access to a vibrant campus life, a wealth of off-campus activities, affordable housing options, and a convenient transportation system.

Transportation and Accessibility

Mercer Island is a small island community located in the middle of Lake Washington, between Seattle and Bellevue. Despite being an island, Mercer Island is easily accessible by car, bus, or bike. The island is connected to the mainland by two bridges: the Lacy V. Murrow Memorial Bridge to Seattle and the East Channel Bridge to Bellevue. Both bridges are part of the Interstate 90 (I-90) highway, which makes it easy to get to and from the island.

For those who prefer public transportation, Mercer Island has several bus routes that connect the island to Seattle, Bellevue, and other nearby cities. The Mercer Island School District also provides bus transportation for elementary school students who live within their school boundaries and live 0.5 miles or more from the school they are enrolled in. The school district’s website provides a map to help families determine which school their child should attend.

Cycling is also a popular mode of transportation on Mercer Island. The island has several bike lanes and trails that make it easy to get around by bike. The Mercer Island Loop Trail is a popular 13-mile trail that circles the entire island and offers stunning views of Lake Washington.

In terms of accessibility, Mercer Island is conveniently located near several colleges and universities. Within a 50-mile radius of Mercer Island, there are 38 colleges enrolling a total of 186,113 students. The closest colleges to Mercer Island are listed below:

College NameDistance from Mercer Island
Bellevue College4.5 miles
Seattle University7.9 miles
University of Washington9.6 miles
Seattle Pacific University10.9 miles
Seattle Central College11.1 miles

Overall, Mercer Island is a well-connected community that offers several transportation options for residents and visitors alike. Whether you prefer driving, taking the bus, cycling, or walking, Mercer Island has something for everyone.

Future Developments

Mercer Island is a growing community, and with growth comes development. The city has several ongoing and upcoming projects that are aimed at improving the quality of life for its residents. Here are some of the future developments that are currently in the works:

  • Mercer Island Center for the Arts (MICA): MICA is a community-driven project that aims to bring a performing arts center to Mercer Island. The project has been in the works for several years, and it is currently in the fundraising phase. Once completed, MICA will provide a venue for local theater groups, dance troupes, and musicians to perform.
  • French American School of Puget Sound (FASPS) Expansion: FASPS is a private school located on Mercer Island that offers a bilingual education in French and English. The school has been operating on the island for over 20 years, and it is planning to expand its campus to accommodate more students. The expansion project will include new classroom buildings, a gymnasium, cafeteria, and administrative offices.
  • Mercer Island Community Center (MICC) Renovation: The Mercer Island Community Center is a popular gathering place for residents, and it is in need of some updates. The city is planning a renovation project that will include improvements to the building’s accessibility, energy efficiency, and overall functionality. The project is expected to begin in the near future.
  • Mercerdale Park Renovation: Mercerdale Park is a beloved community space that hosts events throughout the year. The city is planning a renovation project that will include improvements to the park’s playground, picnic areas, and walking paths. The project is expected to begin in the coming years.
  • Transportation Improvements: Mercer Island is known for its traffic congestion, and the city is working on several projects to improve transportation in the area. These projects include the expansion of the Island Crest Way roundabout, the installation of new traffic signals, and the addition of bike lanes and sidewalks.

These future developments are just a few examples of the ongoing projects that are aimed at improving life on Mercer Island. As the community continues to grow, it is likely that more projects will be proposed and implemented in the coming years.

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