SDSU and Southwestern College strengthen Partnership to expand Educational Opportunities in South County
San Diego State University (SDSU) and Southwestern College (SWC) are deepening their long-standing collaboration with a new partnership focused on expanding access to SDSU degree programs for students in San Diego’s South County.The initiative aims to help more South County students complete their degrees and prepare for meaningful careers without leaving their community.
A key component of this expansion is the introduction of new in-person Industrial and Organizational psychology programs at SWC. Graduates of these programs will be equipped with skills in leadership, data-informed decision making, and organizational behavior, preparing them for high-demand roles in fields like human resources, organizational development, and workforce analytics – sectors experiencing growth in San Diego’s healthcare, education, government, and technology industries.
“Our partnership with San Diego State University is creating a clear, seamless transfer pathway that empowers students to advance their education and secure high-demand careers,” stated Southwestern College Superintendent/President Mark Sanchez. he further emphasized the benefit for current transfer students, adding, “nearly half of our transfer students choose SDSU to continue their academic journeys, and the addition of an in-person Industrial and Organizational Psychology program at SWC gives them the opportunity to earn a SDSU four-year degree close to home while preparing for leadership roles in today’s workforce. Together, we are building a talent pipeline that connects education directly to employment, meeting the region’s growing need for skilled professionals and strengthening our community’s economic future.”
The partnership builds upon decades of collaboration between SDSU and SWC, which already includes SDSU bachelor’s degree programs offered at SWC in business administration, criminal justice, child development, dialog, public health, and civil engineering.
SDSU typically enrolls between 500-600 new transfer students from SWC each year. This fall,the university welcomed 609 SWC transfer students.Historically,approximately 65% of SWC transfers graduate with an SDSU degree within two years of transferring,with a four-year graduation rate of 85%.
The expanded partnership will see SDSU increase its in-person and online course offerings at SWC’s University Center,providing designated instructional and advising space. This model is specifically designed to support students who are “place-bound” due to work or family commitments, enabling them to earn an SDSU degree without the need to relocate or commute long distances.
Stefan Hyman, SDSU’s associate vice president for Enrollment Management, highlighted the shared goals of the institutions, stating, “This long-standing collaboration demonstrates our shared commitment to access, student success, and economic development. By aligning missions and resources, SDSU and Southwestern College are empowering students, supporting families, and strengthening the economic vitality of the South County region.”
