Bachelor of Science Industrial Automation

The Bachelor of Science in Industrial Automation at Imperial Valley College is designed to equip students with advanced technical skills and knowledge in the rapidly evolving field of industrial automation. Building upon our existing Associate of Science degree, this four-year program offers comprehensive education in automation technologies, robotics, control systems, and industrial networks. Graduates will be prepared for managerial and supervisory positions  in industrial operations such as mineral extraction, geothermal, and other disciplines. Graduates will be be prepared to manage automated systems and operations, meeting the growing demand for skilled professionals in this sector. 

Program Requirements and Prerequisite Skills: 

• Prerequisite Skills: 

• Proficiency in mathematics, and basic electrical principles. 

• Fundamental knowledge of computer applications and introductory programming. 

• Completion of lower-division coursework in industrial automation or related fields. 

• Program Requirements: 

• Successful completion of lower-division courses equivalent to those in the Associate of Science in Industrial Automation Systems. 

• Completion of upper-division major courses focusing on advanced topics in industrial automation, management, and leadership. 

• Fulfillment of general education requirements, including upper-division general education courses. 

• Participation in a capstone project or internship to gain practical experience. 

This Bachelor of Science in Industrial Automation is tailored to prepare students with the skills needed in industrial-automation technology, to prepare the supervisor and management opportunities needed by this developing industry, aligning with IVC's mission to provide educational opportunities that lead to high-demand, well-paying careers. By equipping students with management and leadership training coupled with higher level expertise in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence, the program aims to supply skilled professionals for in-demand roles such as supervisory and operations management. 

The program's development has been informed by a documented need for an anticipated workforce, primarily around the lithium extraction industry, in both technical operations as well as supervisory and management positions. Collaborative discussions with employers in geothermal energy, battery manufacturing and recycling, and lithium extraction have been instrumental in shaping the curriculum to meet specific technical and managerial needs. The Centers of Excellence LMI report recommends to "proceed with caution" but it does not take into account the anticipated workforce needs of the developing mineral extraction industry in the Imperial Valley, particularly lithium, as well as ancillary/secondary industries such as battery manufacturing and recycling. The roll out of the BS program and anticipated graduates align with the anticipated needs of these industries. Strong letters of support are included.

The curriculum, developed through a comprehensive strategic planning process involving students, faculty, local employers, the Academic Senate, and the Curriculum Committee, includes a blend of technical and managerial courses such as: 

• Economic Decision-Making 

• Leadership and Management Skills 

• Operations and Maintenance 

• Industrial Safety 

• Project and Quality Management 

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• Advanced technical competencies like robotic programming, Human-Machine Interface (HMI), motion control, all connected a series of Industry Recognized Credentials (IRC) driven by partnerships with Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA), and the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3).