The Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP) is the program that Bismarck State College uses to maintain its regional accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission. Based on the principles of continuous quality improvement, AQIP helps BSC strive for and reach high standards of educational quality.

Central to the AQIP process is the creation of a Systems Portfolio. The Portfolio, through answers to a set of questions about AQIP's nine categories, provides an in-depth look at the college, documents quality improvement efforts, and demonstrates accountability. A team of AQIP reviewers offers valuable feedback on the Systems Portfolio through the Systems Appraisal. BSC's response to the Appraisal is the development of AQIP Action Projects and other efforts to address areas of need. The Action Projects are key components of the AQIP process. At all times, at least one action project must be devoted to advancing student learning.

Through the various components of AQIP, BSC follows a rigorous program of identifying needs, goal setting, effective action, and regular updates and feedback. This cycle of activity focuses the college on quality and effectiveness.