Watch Technology Institute is currently accepting applications for the Fall 2025 cohort.
** The deadline for Watch Technology applications is January 31st, 2025.
Applicants must complete online and in-person bench testing for consideration.**
Watch Technology Institute (Certificate)
CertificateThe Watch Technology Certificate is a full-time, 164-credit program preparing students for careers as Watchmakers and Watch Repairers. Students learn practical and theoretical watchmaking; the watches covered include basic manual-wind, automatic, chronograph, and quartz movements. Students will also learn the basics of micromechanics, manufacturing, casing/assembly, quality control, customer service, and refinishing.
In addition to the Watch Technology Certificate through North Seattle College, students are eligible to sit for certification testing through the Swiss-American Watchmakers Training Alliance (SAWTA). SAWTA was established by Rolex Watch USA, Inc. to encourage the training of watchmakers in the United States. To receive the SAWTA certificate, students must pass several rounds of intermediate exams and a final exam.
Entrance into the Watch Technology program is competitive; typically more applications are received than classroom spots are available. Applicants are encouraged to apply early by downloading the application form here and starting the process. Students may contact the WTI office for more information.
Students looking to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS), may opt for the Watch Technology AAS program. The AAS requires the completion of 20 additional general education credits on top of the 164 Watch Technology credits (184 total credits). To learn more about the AAS option, click here.
Estimated Length of Completion
| Degree | Quarters | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | Full Time: 8 Part Time: Part Time Option Not Available |
164.0 |
Program lengths are estimates, not guarantees. For the most current program information, please check with the program contact.
There are no entry requirements for this program
Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor to discuss specific career goals and recommended coursework.
Job tests this program will prepare you for:
For current employment and wage estimates, please visit the following online resources and search for the relevant occupational term:
All costs are estimates and are not guarantees. For the most current program information, check with an adviser by calling 206.934.5391. There are additional costs for books and supplies. Each student is responsible for the purchase of certain supplies and required tools before the instruction begins.
The following fee is associated with the program:
- 2020/2021 Toolkit - $6,500.00
Equipment Fee associated with this program
- The toolkit fee is required by the program. Tools are supplied by WTI and paid for by the student. : $6,500.00 (split 50/50 between the student's first Fall and Winter quarters)
Students are in class Monday-Thursday 7:30am-4:30pm, Friday 7:30am-4:30pm. Additional lab hours are available for students who wish to work on more projects.
Worker Friendly
This program is offered at times and in formats that meet the needs of working adults. This includes:
- Daytime: Courses offered between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM
Coursework
To check the program sequences please view pdf.