Lithium Valley and SDSU’s Commitment to a Brighter Future
For nearly 65 years, San Diego State University Imperial Valley has been a part of the Valley community. Through high-impact courses, faculty and staff mentorship, and hands-on research opportunities, we’ve been at the forefront of preparing tens of thousands of students for successful professional careers. The next major development will come through the Lithium Valley initiative.
Imperial Valley is home to one of the world's largest sources of lithium, the essential material for electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Lithium Valley uniquely positions California to be the global hub for battery production, and a leader in securing a clean energy future. Lithium Valley has the potential to provide significant economic growth for all the communities of the Valley. To aid in the success of this priority, SDSU is working to prepare tomorrow’s industry leaders through expanded degree programs, hands-on research and workforce training.
To aid in the success of this priority, SDSU is working to prepare tomorrow’s industry leaders through expanded degree programs, hands-on research and workforce training.
View the Sciences and Engineering Laboratories
San Diego State University is in the process of building the Sciences and Engineering Laboratories at SDSU Imperial Valley, Brawley.
The new Sciences and Engineering Laboratories in Brawley will house an Innovation Hub for students and faculty to collaborate with one another, while also incorporating a design that speaks to the culture and identity of the surrounding community. This new hub is one part of the university's commitment to meeting both current and future geothermal energy sector demands – delivering skilled, highly educated professionals that are ready to dive into the workforce.
In June 2023, SDSU announced a new Bachelor of Science in public health degree program for SDSU Imperial Valley students. The program launched in fall 2024.
In May 2022, SDSU Imperial Valley announced the creation of a new, accelerated pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in nursing degree (BSN) program. The SDSU Imperial Valley BSN program provides freshman entry students the opportunity to complete their BSN in three years and transfer eligible students in two years.
SDSU in the News
The Desert Review
The San Diego Union Tribune
Research Already Underway
SDSU’s College of Sciences and College of Engineering researchers are working on research specific to energy and energy systems, including geothermal energy and energy storage, as well as studies tied to the Salton Sea.
Contact SDSU Media Relations
Reporters interested in speaking with subject matter experts or learning more about SDSU Imperial Valley’s role in the Lithium Valley initiative, including the progress currently underway in regards to related research and workforce development, are encouraged to contact a member of the SDSU Media Relations Team.
