Now accepting BAS Applied Accounting admission applications for Fall 2026. Apply now.
The BAS Applied Accounting is a rigorous degree program that incorporates communication, information technology, management, sustainability, and project management to interpret business and accounting information. Our program emphasizes in-person, collaborative work to strengthen leadership abilities and to prepare students for successful entry or promotion into accounting related industries. Graduates are prepared for careers that require in-depth knowledge of accounting and management skills.
The BAS program runs in a yearly Fall cohort. Courses are offered on-campus and online, with an emphasis on in-person evening classes. Full-time or part-time study options are available.

The Associate of Applied Science-Transfer (AAS-T) degree in Accounting prepares students to apply for admission into the BAS Applied Accounting program. Students without the AAS-T in Accounting may apply for admission to the BAS program by satisfying the published BAS admission prerequisites.
Graduates from our program have achieved high success in their post-graduation goals, including passing the CPA exam, securing employment at leading firms, and going on to graduate-level studies at highly competitive universities such as the University of Washington.
The Applied Accounting, BAS is a four-year, 180-credit program that prepares students for various careers in Information Security. This degree provides students with a broad base of theoretical and technical knowledge.
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The Associate of Applied Science Accounting degree provides a strong background in accounting, preparing students for a wide range of career options in the accounting field. This degree is designed to prepare students for immediate employment. The degree has the option to earn national certifications as well as several embedded program certificates while earning the degree.
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The Associate of Applied Science – Transfer Accounting degree is a two-year, 99-credit program designed for both those seeking immediate employment in an entry-level in accounting or preparing for continuation into a baccalaureate program. All AAS-T credits apply to the BAS Applied Accounting degree.
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Intermediate Accounting Certificate
This baccalaureate certificate provides an in-depth examination of the theoretical foundations of accounting, designed to offer comprehensive insights into complex accounting principles and practices. The certificate includes detailed studies in cash flow, revenue recognition, and advanced financial reporting, progressing to cover the valuation of assets, diverse business financing options, and a thorough exploration of lease accounting.
Management Accounting Systems & Auditing Certificate
This certificate program provides a comprehensive exploration of cost accounting, accounting information systems (AIS), and auditing.
This certificate includes: Cost accounting, with a focus on methods essential for effective planning and control, job order and process costing, standard cost systems, cost variances, budgeting and profitability analysis.
The certificate also includes training in AIS, which involves the application of AIS concepts, including internal controls.
US Federal Income Taxation Certificate
This certificate provides a thorough exploration of the tax implications of business decisions, aimed at imparting a comprehensive understanding of tax knowledge necessary for identifying, researching, and solving tax issues, as well as effective tax planning.
Emphasizing an advanced approach to federal taxation principles, the course delves into federal income taxation concepts and provisions related to property transactions, partnerships, corporations, trusts, and estates.
The Accounting Assistant Certificate of Achievement is a 45-49 credit certificate that emphasizes practical skills in the accounting field as well as providing an introduction to business management. That includes a national certification in a leading accounting software package.
Focus Areas:
• Analyze & record transaction
• Payroll
• Prepare financial reports
• Communicate accounting results to management
The Bookkeeping Certificate of Accomplishment emphasizes practical skills in the accounting field. Embedded in the certificate is a national certification in a leading accounting software package. Students completing the certificate are employable as AP, AR or payroll clerks for entry level positions.
Focus Areas:
• Analyze & record transaction
• Payroll
• Prepare financial reports
• Communicate accounting results to management
The Accounting Information Systems Certificate of Accomplishment is a 30-credit certificate that emphasizes computerized accounting for small to mid-range organizations.
Focus Areas:
• Analyze a business’ accounting systems needs
• Evaluate security needs
• Prepare and communicate accounting information analysis, using selected information system software
The Financial Data Report Specialist Certificate of Accomplishment emphasizes database and database reporting of financial and managerial information used for decision making and analysis. There is an emphasis on data analysis and reporting tools such as spreadsheets and databases
Focus Areas:
• Financial and Management Planning
• Accounting Systems
• Create databases and data analysis
The Accounting Preparation Certificate of Completion is a 16-credit certificate. It is the foundation coursework for students to begin accounting studies (suggested first-quarter course of study in accounting).
Focus Areas:
• Demonstrate a basic understanding of accounting principles
• Use industry-standard financial tools
• Cisco Networking

Instructors focus on teaching students hands-on technical skills. All bachelor students are required to complete a capstone project or internship prior to graduating.

Tuition costs for baccalaureate degrees at Bellevue College are significantly lower than other 4-year degree programs at state universities.

All bachelor level courses are financial aid eligible. Worker Retraining program approved.

Our bachelor programs are cohort-based emphasizing student collaboration and team building. Get to know your faculty, fellow students and program advisors.

Twice a year faculty meet with advisory committee members to ensure curriculum is relevant and up-to-date in order to meet industry standards.

Bellevue College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), a regional accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Accounting is an academic program and part of the Bellevue College Social Science Division. Website manager is Kristi Wilson.