Bookkeeping Certification Programs in Tacoma, Washington

Becoming a Certified Bookkeeper in Tacoma, Washington

If you’re considering a career as a Certified Bookkeeper in Tacoma, Washington, you’re on the right path to joining a profession that is both rewarding and in demand. A Certified Bookkeeper is a professional who has demonstrated expertise in managing financial records, ensuring accuracy, and maintaining compliance with applicable laws. This guide will walk you through the different types of Bookkeeping education paths available in Tacoma, providing you with the information you need to start your journey.

About Tacoma

Tacoma, Washington, is a bustling city located on the Puget Sound, known for its rich history and thriving arts scene. As the third-largest city in Washington, Tacoma offers a blend of urban and suburban living, with neighborhoods like North End, Hilltop, and Proctor District providing diverse cultural experiences. For more information about Tacoma, visit the official city website.

Bookkeeping Training Programs in Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma offers several options for those interested in pursuing a career in bookkeeping. Here are some local schools offering Bookkeeping programs:

1. Tacoma Community College
   • Located in the West End neighborhood, Tacoma Community College offers a Bookkeeping Systems Certificate. This program requires the completion of the Accounting Office Associate Certificate or the Assistant Bookkeeping Clerk Certificate. It includes courses in accounting, payroll, and financial statements. More details can be found on the Tacoma Community College website.
2. North Seattle College
   • Although a bit further away, North Seattle College offers a comprehensive Bookkeeping Certificate program requiring 43 credits. The curriculum includes courses such as introduction to accounting, QuickBooks, payroll accounting, and not-for-profit financial management. Visit the North Seattle College website for more information.
3. Pierce College
   • Situated in the nearby city of Lakewood, Pierce College provides a range of accounting and bookkeeping courses that can help you build a solid foundation in financial management. Check out the Pierce College website for program specifics.

Bookkeeping Employment Opportunities in Tacoma

Tacoma is home to several major financial institutions and businesses that may employ bookkeepers. Here are a few organizations to consider:

1. Columbia Bank
   • Headquartered in the Downtown Tacoma area, Columbia Bank offers a variety of career opportunities in finance and accounting. Visit their careers page for more information.
2. TrueBlue Inc.
   • Located in the Port of Tacoma neighborhood, TrueBlue is a leading provider of workforce solutions and frequently hires for accounting and bookkeeping positions. Explore their employment opportunities.
3. DaVita
   • With offices in the Tacoma Mall area, DaVita is a healthcare company that often has openings for finance-related roles. Check their careers page for current listings.

Prerequisites for Bookkeeping Programs

Before enrolling in a Bookkeeping program, you should be aware of the typical prerequisites. Most programs require a high school diploma or GED. Some may have additional requirements, such as prior coursework in mathematics or basic accounting principles. It’s important to check with the specific institution for their entry requirements.

Bookkeeping Certification Requirements

To become a Certified Bookkeeper, you may consider certifications from national organizations such as the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) or the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB). These certifications typically require passing an exam and meeting experience requirements.

In Tacoma, specific certifications include:

• Bookkeeping Systems Certificate from Tacoma Community College.
• Bookkeeping Certificate from North Seattle College, with options to become an Intuit Certified Bookkeeping Professional or an Intuit QuickBooks Certified User.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Bookkeeper in Tacoma, Washington, is a promising step towards a stable and fulfilling profession. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities available, now is the perfect time to pursue your certification. Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and begin your journey in the world of bookkeeping.

For more information on the job outlook for Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.