San Diego State University (SDSU) and Southwestern College (SWC) leaders signed a new agreement on Friday to create in-person industrial/organizational psychology degree programs specifically designed for SWC transfer students in Chula Vista.
Graduates of these new psychology programs will acquire valuable skills in leadership, data-informed decision making, and organizational behavior. These competencies will prepare them for careers in human resources, organizational development, and workforce analytics, according to a joint statement from the educational institutions.
“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.”
SDSU and SWC have a longstanding partnership that already offers several SDSU bachelor’s degree programs at Southwestern College, including business administration, criminal justice, child development, communication, public health, and civil engineering. The new industrial/organizational psychology program is scheduled to begin in fall 2026.
“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,” said Southwestern College Superintendent/President Mark Sanchez.
He added, “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.”
In a typical year, SDSU enrolls between 500 and 600 new transfer students from SWC. This fall alone, 609 transfer students from Southwestern College enrolled at SDSU. On average, 65% of SWC transfer students graduate with an SDSU degree within two years of transferring, and the graduation rate rises to 85% four years after transfer.
To further support students, SDSU and SWC plan to deepen their existing partnership by expanding both in-person and online offerings at SWC’s University Center. SDSU will have designated instructional and advising spaces at the center to better serve students in the region.
This collaboration exemplifies a strong commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education and aligning academic programs with workforce needs in the South County community.
https://timesofsandiego.com/education/2025/10/18/sdsu-swc-add-bachelor-psychology-degree-collaboration-in-south-county/
