The mission of Imperial Valley College is to foster excellence in education that challenges students of every background to develop their intellect, character and abilities; to assist students in achieving their educational and career goals; and to be responsive to the greater community. Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, which is recognized by the Commission on Recognition of Postsecondary Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education; American Welding Society; California Association of Alcohol and Drug Educators; California Board of Registered Nursing; California Board of Vocational Nurse and Psychiatric Examiners; Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs; Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training, California State Department of Education; and National Academy of Early Childhood Programs. Courses paralleling university level work are accepted on a transfer basis by the University of California, the California State University system and by other universities and colleges. Imperial Valley College has 137 academic and administrative positions and 162 classified employees including managers serving over 11,000 students. The college is comprised of one main campus of 160 acres in the midst of rich agricultural land, and three extended campuses. The main campus consists of 29 buildings situated on a beautifully landscaped corner adjacent to major highways for ease of commute. The Imperial Valley College student population consists of 86% Hispanic students; 63% of total students are female. The average age of IVC students is 27 years, and more than 50% of the students work full or part time while attending IVC.