Admissions

The exterior of Bellevue College's Student Center is seen from a vantage point a few stories high from a neighboring building. About 10 people are seen walking through the courtyard and lounging on benches. Around them are several grassy spots, shrubs, and trees with fall foliage.

Admissions for the 2024-25 academic year is open! For more details, see Admissions process and Admissions FAQ pages.

Apply Today for a BS in Computer Science!

To obtain a BS in Computer Science at Bellevue College, students must complete all of the required courses as shown in the BS Computer Science Degree Completion Worksheet.
In addition to eligibility requirements, students must also achieve the following:

  • Complete 180 credits with a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and minimum GPA of 2.0 for each individual core course (including transferred credits) in all core program courses.
  • At least 45 quarter credits for the degree must be completed in residence at Bellevue College, of which 30 credits must be upper division.
  • Courses may be subject to minimum grade requirements and prerequisites. Check course descriptions and requirements for more information.

Entry Requirements

First-Year Students

Must be qualified to enroll in the following courses:

  • MATH& 151 Calculus I: Placement by assessment or MATH& 142 with a C- or better, or AP score of 2 or higher on AB or BC exam.
  • ENGL& 101 English Composition I: Placement by assessment or ENGL 092 or ENGL 093 with C- or better.
Transfer Students

Must complete each prerequisite with a minimum of 2.0 grade.

  • MATH& 151 or equivalent credits.
  • MATH& 152 or equivalent credits.
  • ENGL& 101 English Composition I.
  • CS 210
  • CS 211
  • 5-6 credits of either PHYS 121, Biology with lab or Chemistry with lab.

The department of Computer Science accepts post-baccalaureate applications.

College Academic Distribution Requirements (CADR)

All applicants (first year and transfer) must complete a minimum level of preparation prior to applying for admissions into Computer Science. Completion in six subject areas: English, Mathematics, Social Sciences/Social Studies, World Languages, Lab Science, Senior Year Math-Based Quantitative and Arts. These minimum academic subject areas are set by the Washington Student Achievement Council. Most applicants have completed these requirements in high school or through college course work.
Note: One credit in high school is equivalent to a full year course. A five credit class in college is equivalent to one high school credit.

English Language Proficiency

All international applicants must submit proof of English language proficiency as defined by the Office of International Education and Global Initiatives (IEGI) by the application deadline. See the IEGI website for details.

The department of Computer Science offers first-year and transfer student admissions once a year. Admission into the Bachelor of Computer Science degree is competitive and completion of the minimum prerequisites does not guarantee admissions into the major.

Step 1: Apply to Bellevue College for General Admission

If you are not currently enrolled as a BC student or previous BC student who is returning to the college after 4 or more quarters, you must apply to the college for general admission.

Current BC students may skip Step 1 and start at Step 2. Visit BC’s Admissions & Aid page.
Note: Once you receive your Student ID# then you may proceed to Step 2.

Step 2: Complete the CS application Form

Fall 2024 application link

Note: Plan ahead and have the following items ready to upload into the application.

  • Unofficial transcripts from all schools attended (All applicants need to upload high school transcripts; transcripts from any college or universities attended)
  • Personal Statement and Diversity Statement for the faculty to review. Students are encouraged to write their personal statement ahead of time and visit the writing center for feedback on their essays.
Personal Statement Prompt

Write a brief personal statement that will give the departmental admissions committee a better understanding of your motivation and interest in computer science. You may wish to describe your experiences (i.e. work, research, leadership or extracurricular) that have been important to you and future career interests.

Diversity Prompt

Bellevue College strives to create a vibrant campus community that supports a diverse student body, faculty and staff. Describe how your education, philosophy, experiences or background brings a broad perspective to the college and computer science classroom?

Optional Statement

Describe any personal challenges you have faced and explain how they have affected your education and what you did to address them. Discuss any unusual circumstances that may contribute to a better understanding of your record

Optional Document

Resume (optional)

Additional Application Requirements
  • Nonrefundable application fee of $75.00
  • Unofficial transcripts from all schools attended (all applicants must include a high school transcript; transcripts from any college or universities attended)
  • SAT/ACT scores required only for first year applicants

Step 3: Submit Official Transcripts

Submit official transcripts to the BC Evaluations Office at:

Bellevue College
Evaluation’s Office
3000 Landerholm Circle SE
Bellevue, WA 98007-6484

Electronic transcripts must be sent directly by your prior school. We cannot accept copies forwarded from your personal email account. Your prior school can email electronic transcripts and documents to: enrollment@bellevuecollege.edu

Step 4: Departmental Notification

Departmental notification will be sent to your BC email address in end of July for students who applied by June 26th.  Fall registration for new students admitted into the program begins at the end of July.

How long does it take to complete the BS in Computer Science program?

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree is 180 credits. First year students typically take four years to complete 180 credits. Transfer students typically take two years to complete the degree requirements.

If I am not admitted the first time, can I reapply?

The Department of Computer Science offers admissions once a year in Fall Quarter only.  Students may reapply the following year for consideration if not admitted.

How many students are admitted each year?

In past years, the department has admitted 24-72 new students annually and plans to increase enrollment as additional funding, resources, and space are allocated to grow the program.

What programming language is used in the Fundamental of Computer Science classes (CS 210 & CS 211)?

Java is used in CS 210 and CS 211.

Do I need my own computer? 

All students enrolled in the BS in Computer Science program must have a laptop computer that meets the following operating system requirements. For students experiencing financial hardship who are not able to purchase a laptop, Bellevue College has a Laptop Loan Program, which loans laptops to students quarterly on a first-come, first-served basis.

Are there any scholarships available?

Computer Science scholarships are awarded through the Bellevue College Foundation. Students who completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) may be eligible for additional financial aid such as grants, loans, and work-study based on eligibility. Learn more about financial aid available to Bellevue College students.

Save the date! Join the Computer Science faculty in A110 to learn more about Fall 2024 admissions.

  • Wednesday, May 15th from 3:30-4:20 PM    Professor of Computer Science, Alfred Nehme
  • Tuesday, May 21st from 3:30-4:20 PM   Chair of CS department and Professor of Computer Science, Dr. Sara Farag
  • Thursday, June 6th 3:30-4:20 PM      Professor of Computer Science, Dr. Fatma Serce


Contact Us

Margo Ikegami, Program Manager
Email: cs@bellevuecollege.edu
Phone: (425) 564-2744
Office Location: A109


Dr. Sara Farag, Program Chair
Email: sara.farag@bellevuecollege.edu
Phone: (425) 564-2741 
Office Location: A110

For issues or questions about our website, contact the website manager: cs@bellevuecollege.edu

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Last Updated April 23, 2024