San Diego State has one of the highest four-year graduation rates in the CSU system. (Photo by Jazlyn Dieguez/EdSource)
San Diego State University and Southwestern College leaders Friday signed an agreement to create in-person industrial/organizational psychology degree programs for SWC transfer students in Chula Vista.
Graduates of the new psychology programs will leave with “skills in leadership, data-informed decision making and organizational behavior,” and able to enter careers in human resources, organizational development and workforce analytics, a statement from the educational institutions read.
“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.”
The institutions have a longstanding partnership, including SDSU bachelor’s degree programs offered at SWC in business administration, criminal justice, child development, communication, public health and civil engineering.
The new offerings are slated 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. “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 typically enrolls 500-600 new transfer students from SWC. This fall, SDSU enrolled 609 transfer students from the college. An average 65% of SWC transfers graduate with an SDSU degree two years after transferring, and the graduation rate is 85% four years after transfer.
SDSU and SWC will deepen the existing partnership by expanding in- person and online offerings at SWC’s University Center, where SDSU will have designated instructional and advising space.
–City News Service
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