Beginner Mandarin Chinese

Discover the beauty of Mandarin through both language and culture in this fun, beginner-friendly course! You’ll learn to speak, read, write, and listen to Mandarin using songs, crafts, and hands-on activities designed to make learning enjoyable and memorable. A highlight of the class includes a field trip to Seattle’s vibrant Chinatown, where you’ll experience Chinese culture in action.

By the end of the course, you’ll have built a foundation of practical skills and essential characters and phrases for everyday use.

Required Textbook: Learning Mandarin Chinese Characters Volume 1: The Quick and Easy Way to Learn Chinese Characters! ISBN: 9780804844918

No experience necessary—just bring your curiosity, a notebook, and writing tools!

Drawing Your Own Treasures

Choose objects from your home to draw or paint and photograph them using good lighting. Plan before the first class and arrive with at least five subject ideas you could use as reference images for your coursework. Students may work in Graphite, Charcoal, Pastel, Colored Pencil, Ink, Watercolor, or Mixed Media. Homework is required.

While most participants are advanced artists, beginning students are welcome with prior instructor approval. Beginners should email mmegale@highline.edu before the course begins.

No Class: April 28th

Student testimonials: 

“I have learned a lot, very welcoming group, an outstanding Instructor and lots of fun”.

“Excellent teaching style. Works well with all students regardless of their expertise”.

Beginning Japanese

Discover the beauty and depth of the Japanese language and culture. This beginner-level course introduces students to speaking, writing, and understanding Japanese using both traditional textbooks and authentic, real-world materials. Whether you’re drawn to Japanese culture, anime and manga, or simply love learning new languages, this class offers an engaging and supportive environment for building your skills. Perfect for brand-new or continuing learners.

Required Textbook: Genki Textbook Volume 1, 3rd edition (Genki(1)) (Multilingual Edition) ISBN# 978-4789017305

Please Bring: Note-taking materials of your choice; a dictionary is optional but may be helpful.

Take the first step toward mastering Japanese and connecting with a rich cultural tradition—enroll today!

Spanish for Beginners – Level 1

Start speaking Spanish—or build on what you already know—in a fun, welcoming environment! These beginner-level classes focus on pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar through interactive reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities. You'll also explore the vibrant cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.

• Level 1: Great for brand-new learners or a refresher

• Bring: Notebook, pen/pencil

Student testimonials: Beginners Spanish-Level 1

“This was a very good class. The instructor was kind and professional. They had great energy and were very engaged. I enjoyed the material and how it was presented. Some classes only focus on grammar or conjugation, but the mix of speaking exercises & material was very valuable”.

“Instructor was extremely helpful.She made learning a new language understandable, enjoyable and relevant".

Join the adventure and start your Spanish journey today!

**NO CLASS: April 13th, and May 25th 

Spanish for Beginners – Level 2

Ready to start speaking Spanish or refresh your skills? These fun, interactive classes are perfect for beginners and continuing learners alike.

Build your pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar through engaging reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities. Along the way, explore the rich cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.

• Level 2: Great for continuing students not yet ready for intermediate.

Bring a notebook and pen/pencil. ¡Vamos!

Student Testimonials: Beginners Spanish-Level 2

"Sylvia Ritchie is a wonderful teacher! I'm going to take Spanish intermediate because of her!"

"Sra Ritchie is an awesome instructor. The course was easy to follow, and she was ready to learn from. I really appreciated the course content."

Intermediate Spanish – Levels 1

Take your Spanish to the next level with these lively, interactive classes at Highline College! Designed for those who have completed beginning Spanish, this course builds confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing through deeper conversations, richer texts, and more expressive writing.

• Instructor: Sylvia Ritchie

• Bring: Notebook, pen/pencil

Explore the Spanish-speaking world while advancing your language and cultural skills.

Student testimonials: Intermediate Spanish – Level 1

"The best spanish teacher I ever had!"

“It's a real benefit to be able to learn language in an affordable and accessible way. Thank you.”

Intermediate Spanish – Level 2

Advance your Spanish skills in a dynamic, engaging environment at Highline College! Perfect for students who have completed beginning Spanish, this course builds your confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing through lively discussions, longer texts, and more expressive writing exercises.

You’ll also expand your understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures while enhancing real-world communication skills.

• Bring: Notebook, pen/pencil

Keep growing—your next step in Spanish starts here.

Student testimonials: Intermediate Spanish – Level 2

“Best teacher ever.”

Zumba

Ready to dance yourself into a better mood? Join our Zumba Fitness – All Levels Welcome class and turn your workout into the most fun part of your day!

Why You'll Love it:

• Upbeat music + easy to follow moves

• Full-body cardio workout that feels like a party

• Supportive, judgment -free environment

• Perfect for beginners and seasoned dancers alike

• Guaranteed mood boost and calorie burn

No dance experience needed-just bring your energy and get moving!

Highline College Employee Discount:

• Current employees get 20% off CE non‑credit classes

• Must register by phone: 206‑592‑3785

• (UGotClass–LERN programs not included)

What students are saying: 

“I absolutely loved the Zumba classes! Ana was amazing—so full of energy, she got us moving and laughing every time. I wish we had this program year‑round!”

Ballroom & Social Dance Made Easy

Nervous about dancing at weddings, parties, or social events? This fun, beginner-friendly class will get you moving with confidence! Learn the basics of popular styles including Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha Cha, Rumba, Swing, and Night Club Two-Step—perfect for any occasion.

No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and two left feet!

Student testimonials: 

“Instructors are very helpful and patient. They made learning very fun and enjoyable”.

Ballroom & Social Dance Made Easy

Nervous about dancing at weddings, parties, or social events? This fun, beginner-friendly class will get you moving with confidence! Learn the basics of popular styles including Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha Cha, Rumba, Swing, and Night Club Two-Step—perfect for any occasion.

No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and two left feet!

 Student testimonials: 

“Instructors are very helpful and patient. They made learning very fun and enjoyable”.

Knit Your Stress Away

Are you looking for a hobby that is calming, historic, generational and offers a creative touch for gifts? Learning to knit offers all of these possibilities!  We will explore basic knit stitches and make a class project.  Options include learning more advanced stitches and choosing a personal easy project.There is a required $25 kit, paid in cash directly to the instructor on the 1st day of class, this includes needles, cotton yarn, knitting needles, ruler, scissors and instructions.

Beginning Crochet

Learn the basics of crochet, including holding a hook and yarn, making and counting stitches, changing colors, and reading patterns. In the first class, you'll make a coaster or dishcloth; in the second, a granny square; and in the third, you'll start a stuffed toy using a pattern. No experience needed! Please plan for approximately $20 in supplies.

A supply list will be sent out about a week before class begins. If you'd like to receive the list sooner, feel free to call our office at 206-592-3785 or email ce@highline.edu. 

Intro to Fly Casting

Fly casting is the foundational skill to becoming a successful fly fisher. In these two hands on sessions, you will get the fundamentals needed to become a good caster. This class is designed for new casters or those with just a little experience. Class includes use of rods, reels and lines.

Held at lake Meridian Park in Kent, located at 14800 SE 272nd St, Kent, WA 98042

Start building the knowledge and skills you need to pursue your next unforgettable fly-fishing experience.

Spring Fly Casting Tune Up

Designed for the caster with some experience. We will evaluate your casting stroke and make recommendations to improve your efficiency, accuracy, distance, and presentation. This is also a great refresher course if it's been a while since you've cast. Get ready for a great season of fly fishing with a pre-season tune-up.

Held at lake Meridian Park in Kent, located at 14800 SE 272nd St, Kent, WA 98042

Trout Fishing Basics

Learn how to be a successful Trout Angler in the Pacific Northwest. We will discuss, Tackle, equipment, and fishing strategies including suggested baits, lures, and where to go. Come and get started in this lifetime activity that is great for the whole family.

The class will be located at GRC/ ENUMCLAW CAMPUS at 1414 Griffin Avenue, Enumclaw, WA 98022, ENM 15

Intro to Trout Fly Fishing

Join us for a 3-session hands-on crash course to learn the skills of Trout Fly fishing.

• 5/6, 6:30pm to 8:30pm, GRC CH-208 Session 1 will be in the classroom and covers Rods, Reels, Lines, Leaders and Flies, and how to set up equipment.  
• 5/13, 6:00pm to 8pm, LAKE MERIDIAN PARK Session 2 will be an introduction to Fly casting held at a local lake.
• 5/16, 7am-11am, Session 3 will be held at Rattlesnake Lake and includes a second session of Casting, followed by learning how to present flies to Trout while fishing for the lakes Rainbows.

Intro to Fly Casting

Fly casting is the foundational skill to becoming a successful fly fisher. In these two hands on sessions, you will get the fundamentals needed to become a good caster. This class is designed for new casters or those with just a little experience. Class includes use of rods, reels and lines.

Held at lake Meridian Park in Kent, located at 14800 SE 272nd St, Kent, WA 98042

Start building the knowledge and skills you need to pursue your next unforgettable fly-fishing experience.

Triple Threat Trout Fishing (LECTURE ONLY)

Western fly fishers need an arsenal of strategies to be successful day in and day out. During class we will discuss 3 deadly trout fly fishing methods - Nymph fishing, Streamer fishing, and Dry fly fishing. You will learn when and where to apply each method including suggested fly patterns for success

Please note, this is the 2-hour lecture. If you are interested in the bundle that includes this 2-hour lecture and an outing, please register using register for 39555

Triple Threat Trout Fishing with Outing

Western fly fishers need an arsenal of strategies to be successful day in and day out. During class we will discuss 3 deadly trout fly fishing methods - Nymph fishing, Streamer fishing, and Dry fly fishing. You will learn when and where to apply each method including suggested fly patterns for success. After the classroom session join us for an on-the-water session for hands-on instruction and fishing on Saturday , June 6th from 8AM - 2PM. Directions will be provided for the location in class.

Island Rhythms: Hawaiian Song & Guitar

The spirit of Hawai‘i through music. Immerse yourself in the rich tradition of Hawaiian music as you explore its soulful melodies and storytelling songs. In this interactive course, you’ll learn to sing traditional Hawaiian songs and play guitar in authentic folk and slack key styles—a unique, expressive form rooted in island culture.

What You’ll Learn

• Basic and intermediate slack key (kī hō‘alu) guitar techniques

• Hawaiian folk rhythms and chord progressions

• Vocal practice with classic Hawaiian mele (songs)

• Cultural context behind the music and lyrics

Whether you're a guitarist, singer, or simply a lover of Hawaiian culture, this course offers a warm, welcoming space to grow your musical skills and deepen your connection to the islands.

Student testimonials: 

“I love this class! The feeling when we all get in a rhythm of playing together is unbelievably fulfilling”.

“This class has enhanced my overall perspective on how good life can be. A fabulous instructor who I look forward to every class to experience the Hawaiian Aloha. Mahalo for Highline to offer this class!!”

Beginning Guitar: Play Your First Chords and Songs

Always wanted to play guitar? Now’s your chance!
This welcoming, hands-on course is perfect for beginners eager to start their musical journey. Learn how to play chords, read music, and develop solid picking and strumming techniques in a supportive and fun environment at Highline College.

What You’ll Learn

• Basic music reading and chord shapes
• Strumming patterns and fingerpicking
• Guitar fundamentals across multiple styles:
• Classical, jazz, pop/folk, and country western
• How to play songs from start to finish

Just bring your own non-electric acoustic guitar (nylon or steel strings) and get ready to make music from day one.

*NEW* Italian Language

Ready to bring Italy to life this quarter?

Discover a course that blends beginner Italian with the vibrant world of modern Italian culture — no textbook needed.

Why you'll love this class:

• Build real communication skills through listening, speaking, reading, and writing

• Explore Italy through music, films, commercials, magazines, and even recipes

• Learn practical Italian you can actually use

• Experience culture, not just vocabulary lists

• No book required — just curiosity and enthusiasm

This class is perfect for total beginners, culture lovers, foodies, and anyone dreaming of Italy, inviting you to step into the language, taste the culture, and say ciao to a whole new world.

Korean Language and Culture - Levels 1 & 2

Discover the beauty of the Korean language and culture through our dynamic and interactive courses, tailored for both beginner and intermediate adult learners. Whether you’re starting from scratch or building on existing skills, our classes provide a well-rounded learning experience.

Beginner students will learn to read and write Hangul (the Korean alphabet), practice essential phrases for everyday situations, and gain insight into common customs and etiquette.

Intermediate learners will expand their vocabulary, strengthen pronunciation and grammar, and develop confidence in natural, real-world conversations while exploring deeper cultural nuances.

To make learning engaging and memorable, lessons feature interactive activities such as role-playing, Korean calligraphy, traditional crafts, and group discussions. You’ll also enjoy cultural workshops highlighting Korean art, history, music, and seasonal traditions—offering a true connection to Korea’s rich heritage.

Whether your goal is travel, professional development, or simply the joy of learning a new language, our Korean courses provide the skills and cultural understanding to succeed.
 

Join us and immerse yourself in a rewarding journey into Korean language and culture today!

Student Testimonials:

“Ms. Won is a great teacher! Able to teach multiple levels at once and made it fun”.

“I was able to practice Korean language at a personalized level”.

Self Defense Essentials

Even if you have just one evening free, this class can make a lasting difference in your safety and confidence. In this fast-paced, hands-on workshop, you’ll discover the most important personal safety principle: you have choices. Learn how to identify real risks, recognize common tricks used by potential attackers, and target the most effective areas for self-defense. You’ll gain practical strategies for handling manipulations and ploys—whether they come from complete strangers or people you know, including in situations involving domestic violence. Through engaging activities, you’ll practice how to create a powerful impact, set boundaries, and respond under pressure.

Walk away feeling prepared, aware, and empowered—while having fun in a supportive and encouraging environment. Join us and take the first step toward your personal safety and peace of mind.

*NEW* Chess Basics for Beginners 

Step into the world of one of history’s oldest and most respected games. This beginner‑friendly course introduces students to the essential rules, strategies, and tactics of chess while building confidence and curiosity on the board. Learners will discover how each move sharpens the mind, strengthens problem‑solving skills, and encourages strategic thinking that extends far beyond the game itself. Whether you’re brand-new to chess or looking to solidify the fundamentals, this class offers an inviting path into a timeless intellectual adventure.

Improvisation for Life: Play, Connect & Grow

Build confidence, reduce stress, and have fun—all through improv.
This interactive class uses the fundamentals of improvisation to help you unlock creativity, improve communication, and navigate life with more ease and confidence. No performance experience needed—just a willingness to play and try something new!

What You’ll Gain

• Empathetic listening and stronger communication skills
• Confidence in thinking on your feet
• Tools for creativity, resilience, and collaboration
• A supportive space where mistakes are welcome and laughter is encouraged

Whether you're looking to challenge yourself, boost your self-expression, or simply unwind in a fun and safe environment, this class offers real-life value through the power of play.

Beginner Pickleball: Get in the Game

Get in the game with America’s fastest-growing sport!
This fun and accessible pickleball class is perfect for beginners of all ages looking to learn the basics in a relaxed, supportive environment. With expert guidance from instructor Natalie, you'll quickly pick up the essentials:

What You’ll Learn

• Proper grip and paddle techniques

• Court positioning and movement

• Scoring and game rules

• Fun drills and guided play to build confidence

Classes are held on an indoor court, so you can enjoy learning rain or shine. All equipment is provided, but feel free to bring your own paddle if you prefer.

Whether you're aiming to get active, stay social, or just try something new, this class offers a great way to move, laugh, and learn.

Intro to Hiking with Outing

This introductory session is designed for anyone ready to explore hiking as a life‑long activity. With year‑round opportunities throughout the Northwest, this class helps you build confidence, understand the essentials, and discover incredible places to explore. The instructor brings over 30 years of experience leading hiking expeditions in the region.

What You’ll Learn

• How to get started with hiking in a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable way

• Key clothing strategies, including layering and choosing the right footwear

• Essential accessories every hiker should carry for comfort and preparedness

• How to plan for varying weather and trail conditions

What’s Included

• A resource notebook filled with trail ideas, seasonal recommendations, and planning tools

• Expert guidance from a seasoned Northwest hiking leader

• Information about the outing provided in class

The class will be located at GRC/ ENUMCLAW CAMPUS at 1414 Griffin Avenue, Enumclaw, WA 98022, ENM 15

Intro to Hiking (Lecture Only)

This introductory session is designed for anyone ready to explore hiking as a life‑long activity. With year‑round opportunities throughout the Northwest, this class helps you build confidence, understand the essentials, and discover incredible places to explore. The instructor brings over 30 years of experience leading hiking expeditions in the region.

What You’ll Learn

• How to get started with hiking in a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable way

• Key clothing strategies, including layering and choosing the right footwear

• Essential accessories every hiker should carry for comfort and preparedness

• How to plan for varying weather and trail conditions

What’s Included

• A resource notebook filled with trail ideas, seasonal recommendations, and planning tools

• Expert guidance from a seasoned Northwest hiking leader

The class will be located at GRC/ ENUMCLAW CAMPUS at 1414 Griffin Avenue, Enumclaw, WA 98022, ENM 15

Beginning Tai Chi: Level 1

Cultivate balance, clarity, and well-being through Tai Chi. In this engaging class, you’ll explore the flowing, meditative movements of Traditional Yang Family Tai Chi Ch’uan, inspired by the teachings of Professor Cheng Man-Ch’ing and Great Grandmaster William C.C. Chen.

Designed for all levels, this practice emphasizes graceful movement, deep breathing, and mindful awareness. Over time, you’ll learn and embody the 60-movement form while discovering the physical and mental benefits of this ancient art.

What You’ll Learn

• Core Tai Chi principles: posture, balance, breathing, and flow
• The traditional 60-movement form step by step
• Techniques for stress relief and relaxation
• Improved strength, flexibility, and focus

Whether you’re new to Tai Chi or deepening your practice, this gentle yet powerful form promotes lifelong health and inner calm.

Student testimonial:

"Course exceeded my expectations to learn and master Tai Chi".

Beginning Tai Chi: Level 1

Cultivate balance, clarity, and well-being through Tai Chi. In this engaging class, you’ll explore the flowing, meditative movements of Traditional Yang Family Tai Chi Ch’uan, inspired by the teachings of Professor Cheng Man-Ch’ing and Great Grandmaster William C.C. Chen.

Designed for all levels, this practice emphasizes graceful movement, deep breathing, and mindful awareness. Over time, you’ll learn and embody the 60-movement form while discovering the physical and mental benefits of this ancient art.

What You’ll Learn

• Core Tai Chi principles: posture, balance, breathing, and flow
• The traditional 60-movement form step by step
• Techniques for stress relief and relaxation
• Improved strength, flexibility, and focus

Whether you’re new to Tai Chi or deepening your practice, this gentle yet powerful form promotes lifelong health and inner calm.

Student testimonial:

"Course exceeded my expectations to learn and master Tai Chi".

Tai Chi Chuan - Individual

Cultivate balance, clarity, and well-being through Tai Chi. In this engaging class, you’ll explore the flowing, meditative movements of Traditional Yang Family Tai Chi Ch’uan, inspired by the teachings of Professor Cheng Man-Ch’ing and Great Grandmaster William C.C. Chen.

Designed for all levels, this practice emphasizes graceful movement, deep breathing, and mindful awareness. Over time, you’ll learn and embody the 60-movement form while discovering the physical and mental benefits of this ancient art.

What You’ll Learn

• Core Tai Chi principles: posture, balance, breathing, and flow
• The traditional 60-movement form step by step
• Techniques for stress relief and relaxation
• Improved strength, flexibility, and focus

Whether you’re new to Tai Chi or deepening your practice, this gentle yet powerful form promotes lifelong health and inner calm.

Student testimonial:

"Course exceeded my expectations to learn and master Tai Chi".

Tai Chi Chuan - Couples

Cultivate balance, clarity, and well-being through Tai Chi. In this engaging class, you’ll explore the flowing, meditative movements of Traditional Yang Family Tai Chi Ch’uan, inspired by the teachings of Professor Cheng Man-Ch’ing and Great Grandmaster William C.C. Chen.

Designed for all levels, this practice emphasizes graceful movement, deep breathing, and mindful awareness. Over time, you’ll learn and embody the 60-movement form while discovering the physical and mental benefits of this ancient art.

What You’ll Learn

• Core Tai Chi principles: posture, balance, breathing, and flow
• The traditional 60-movement form step by step
• Techniques for stress relief and relaxation
• Improved strength, flexibility, and focus

Whether you’re new to Tai Chi or deepening your practice, this gentle yet powerful form promotes lifelong health and inner calm.

Student testimonial:

"Course exceeded my expectations to learn and master Tai Chi".