Choosing Your Goal

Students attend college for a variety of reasons.  You may know exactly what you want to do with your college education, or you may be here to find a sense of direction and purpose.  Having focus enhances student success in college so it is important to consider the options available at IVC.

Complete an Occupational Certificate

IVC has over 31 occupational certificate programs to prepare students to enter a wide variety of careers or to upgrade current job skills. These training programs vary in length from 4 months to 2 years, changing as needed to prepare students to meet the dynamic needs for Imperial County employers. 

Earn an Associate Degree

Students can earn an associate degree in arts and/or sciences at IVC. This degree can stand alone as an accomplishment and will enhance a student's employability and expand career options. Students may also complete an associate degree as a part of transfer preparation and should work with their counselors to make the choice that is right for them.

Transfer for a Bachelor's Degree 

Students can prepare to transfer to a college or university by completing freshman or sophomore level coursework (lower division), which includes both general education and major preparation.  Students should work with their counselors to create a Student Educational Plan that will lead to successful transfer. 

Achieve Personal Goals 

• Develop job skills for a new career or to advance in your current career
• Discover or formulate career plans
• Enhance your understanding of others and the world around you
• Improve basic skills in areas such as english, writing and math
• Take college courses while enrolled in high school to enrich your high school experience 

If you don't have an educational goal, career or major in mind (and many college students do not), consider career exploration by enrolling in this course:   

• COUN 100: Personal and Career Development
  • This comprehensive course explores the issues and tasks related to personal and career development over the lifespan. Applying psychological, sociological, and physiological principles, students will utilize the career planning process to begin to prepare effectively for work in the 21st century global economy. Topics include assessment of interests, personality characteristics, transferable skills, and work values, career exploration, and decision-making strategies. Job search preparation includes development of a resume, cover letter, and interviewing skills. New and re-entry students will learn to explore, identify, and integrate career and life planning goals. Emphasis is placed on the importance of actively managing one's career to achieve success in all life roles.