Bellevue Essentials provides an introduction to civic leadership. This transformational program highlights the structure and daily operations of city government in Bellevue. Topics include demographics, public process, diversity, city planning, economic development, human services, utilities, finance and transportation, fire, police and more. Each session includes some pre-class homework, a networking dinner and presentations and activities from different city departments.
Applicants must live or work in Bellevue. Elected officials and candidates are not eligible to apply. The selection process involves a short application and three essay questions. Acceptance to Bellevue Essentials is highly competitive, as space is limited. Selection is primarily weighted on responses to the application's essay questions. Applicants are encouraged to write thorough and thoughtful responses.
Attendance at an information session is beneficial but not required. It is recommended that you submit your application after attending an information session or viewing the application overview video.
Bellevue Essentials classes begin in September and run for approximately 10-12 weeks on Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 or 9 p.m., as well as a few Saturday sessions. Dinner is included at all evening sessions; lunch is included for all Saturday sessions.
Tuition is $150.00 (payable after acceptance) and a tuition waiver is available. For more information, please see the 2025 brochure linked below. 2026 session information will be posted in early spring.
For additional questions, contact Sarina Miller at samiller@bellevuewa.gov.
- Bellevue Essentials Brochure
- Bellevue Essentials Application (printable)
- Bellevue Essentials 2024 video
For alternate formats, interpreters, or reasonable accommodation requests please phone at least 48 hours in advance 425-452-4295 (voice) or email samiller@bellevuewa.gov. For complaints regarding accommodations, contact City of Bellevue ADA/Title VI Administrator at 425-452-6168 (voice). If you are deaf or hard of hearing, dial 711.
Thank you to our funding partner, Amazon!
Bellevue Essentials Information Brochure (translated)
- Bellevue Essentials Brochure
- 为期 10 周的贝尔维尤市市政实务课程
- 為期 10 周的貝爾維尤市市政實務課程
- ベルビュー市 ガバメント・イン・アクション 10週間コース
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- 10-недельный курс по управлению городом Белвью в действии
- Un curso de 10 semanas sobre el gobierno de la ciudad de Bellevue en acción
- Khóa học 10 tuần về Chính quyền Thành phố Bellevue trong Thực tiễn
Receive an email or text when the next Bellevue Essentials application period opens.
Community Development
