SDSU, Southwestern College expand educational access through new University Center partnership

The following provides updated information about the degree type and courses SDSU plans to offer in person at Southwestern College.

San Diego State University (SDSU) and Southwestern College (SWC) signed a certificate of agreement today to create university academic and student support offerings at the college in South County – further helping students advance in disciplines vital to the region’s workforce.

Following the signing ceremony, SDSU and SWC officials will work toward establishing an in-person Psychology baccalaureate degree program, with core major classes plus industrial/organizational psychology and neuroscience courses for SWC transfer students interested in those respective disciplines. Offerings are slated to begin in fall 2026 following California State University and WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) approval. 

“We are proud to strengthen our longstanding partnership with Southwestern College. This new agreement furthers our shared mission to make higher education more accessible and enhance the career opportunities for students in the communities we serve,” said SDSU President Adela de la Torre. “By bringing SDSU programs directly to SWC, we are helping more South County students complete their degrees and prepare for meaningful careers without leaving their community.”

Graduates of the new psychology programs will be prepared for careers that strengthen workplaces and advance employee success across industries. With skills in leadership, data-informed decision making and organizational behavior, graduates will be ready to enter fields such as human resources, organizational development and workforce analytics, among others. These are high-demand roles across San Diego’s growing sectors, including health care, education, government and technology. 

“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,” said Southwestern College Superintendent/President Mark Sanchez. “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.” 

For decades, SDSU and SWC have worked together to create seamless transfer pathways, degree-completion programs, and career-readiness initiatives. Their collaboration includes SDSU bachelor’s degree programs now offered at SWC in business administration, criminal justice, child development, communication, public health, and civil engineering – all of which are helping graduates to advance in disciplines vital to the region’s workforce.

Each academic year, SDSU typically enrolls 500-600 new transfer students from SWC. This fall, SDSU enrolled 609 of the college’s transfer students. On average, about 65% of SWC transfers graduate with an SDSU degree two years after transferring, and the graduation rate is 85% four years after transfer. 

Through this new agreement, SDSU and SWC will deepen that partnership by expanding in-person and online offerings at SWC’s University Center, where SDSU will have designated instructional and advising space. The model supports South County students, and especially those who are place-bound due to work or family responsibilities, allowing them to complete an SDSU degree without relocating or commuting.
 
“This long-standing collaboration demonstrates our shared commitment to access, student success, and economic development,” said Stefan Hyman, SDSU’s Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management. “By aligning missions and resources, SDSU and Southwestern College are empowering students, supporting families, and strengthening the economic vitality of the South County region.”