Division of Professional Studies

Welcome to the Division of Professional Studies at SDSU Imperial Valley

Students standing in front of White House

The Division of Professional Studies programs stress both academic and practical experiences that prepare students for successful and upwardly mobile careers in a variety of professional fields including Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, Nursing, Public Administration, Public Health, and Social Work. These programs are taught within a global context and focus on emerging transborder issues of concern to our region. The Division offers both undergraduate and graduate programs of study including three undergraduate degrees (Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration), three minors (Public Administration, Public Health, and Social Work), and three graduate degrees (Homeland Security, Nursing Leadership, and Social Work). Coming in Fall 2024, a Bachelor of Science in Public Health (emphasis in Environmental Health) will also be available.

Undergraduate Degree Programs

Graduate Degree Programs

Illustration of the soon to be built STEM Building

SDSU Imperial Valley Sciences and Engineering Laboratories opening in 2025-2026 in Brawley, CA 

The Division of Professional Studies is attractive to students who are new to academics, continuing students searching for a career-oriented education path, and in-service professionals seeking to upgrade their skills.  Graduates enjoy careers in diverse settings, as public and private business managers, human resource directors, healthcare professionals, environmental health researchers and administrators, nurses, city planners, police officers, probation and parole officers, homeland security professionals, correctional officers, and mental health counselors to name just a few. 

Not only do students graduate with employer-identified skills specific to their chosen career, but they also receive a broad educational background that enables them to pursue post-graduate studies.

Opportunities for advanced study are abundant in areas such as law, criminology, homeland security, business administration, public administration, public health, education, allied health professions, and mental health fields. 

The Division of Professional Studies caters to the busy learner who wants to further their education without placing their life on hold. Our programs are offered in morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend formats to provide a quality education that is convenient, flexible, and completed in a predictable period of time. The division is fortunate to have outstanding faculty researchers and professionals who share their knowledge, research, and expertise with students. Faculty are published scholars in their field and possess vital “real-world” experience. All full-time and emeritus faculty have earned doctorate degrees. Many part-time faculty have doctorates as well, assuring that our students are receiving high quality instruction. 

Chair - David Kanaan Ph.D.

Office: West Faculty 160
Hours: Please request an appointment via email.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 760-768-5577

We look forward to hearing from you!

With fewer than a thousand students, SDSU-IV provides a uniquely intimate educational experience.

SDSU Imperial Valley
720 Heber Avenue
Calexico, CA 92231

Welcome to SDSU Imperial Valley

Small classes with convenient accessibility to a dedicated faculty and staff.