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Public, 2-year

Southwestern College

Chula Vista, California · www.swccd.edu

中文

Out-of-state tuition

$10,640

In-state $1,344

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

20,986

Student-faculty ratio 26:1

Peer median 18 : 1

Graduation rate

31.5%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 40.1%

Peer median 33.7%

“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Southwestern College, known as 西南大学 in Chinese, is a prestigious institution located in Chongqing, China. Established in 1906, it has a long history of academic excellence and is recognized for its comprehensive range of programs. The university offers a diverse set of disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, education, and social sciences, attracting a wide variety of students. With a commitment to nurturing innovative thinkers and leaders, the university's motto, "In Pursuit of Excellence," reflects its dedication to academic achievement and personal growth among its students.

The campus of Southwestern College is not only equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories and libraries, but it also boasts a vibrant campus culture that encourages student engagement and extracurricular activities. The university places a strong emphasis on research and development, which is evident in its collaborations with various industries and institutions. Additionally, Southwestern College has a robust athletic program that promotes physical fitness and teamwork among students. With a strong focus on developing well-rounded graduates, the university’s nurturing environment and dedicated faculty make it a prime choice for students seeking a holistic educational experience.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at Southwestern College

Southwestern College, a public institution, has demonstrated notable trends in tuition costs, student retention, graduation rates, and gender ratios over recent years. One prominent trend is the significant increase in out-of-state undergraduate tuition. In 2014, the out-of-state tuition was approximately $5,366, which surged to $9,490 by 2023, marking an increase of about 76.5%. This rise in tuition can be concerning for prospective students, especially in the context of rising student debt across the nation.

Another critical area is student retention, which has seen fluctuations but ultimately shows a positive trend. In 2023, the retention rate for undergraduates rose to approximately 75.4%, up from 68.9% in 2013. This improvement indicates that more students are choosing to continue their studies at Southwestern College, reflecting positively on the institution's support and educational environment.

Graduation rates have also shown a commendable increase. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates rose from about 2.8% in 2013 to nearly 9.9% in 2023. While these numbers are still low in absolute terms, the upward trajectory suggests that the institution is enhancing its ability to help students complete their degrees in a timely manner.

Lastly, the gender distribution among undergraduates has shifted slightly, with the percentage of male students decreasing from approximately 47.2% in 2014 to around 44.8% in 2023. This shift reflects broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been rising relative to male enrollment.

In summary, Southwestern College has experienced significant changes in tuition costs, student retention, graduation rates, and gender ratios. These trends highlight the challenges and successes faced by the institution, providing valuable insights for current and prospective students as well as policymakers in the field of education.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
San Diego, about 15 mi
Nearest international airport
San Diego International Airport (SAN), about 15 mi
Chula Vista, California
Also known as
Southwestern Community College District
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Mark Sanchez (Superintendent/President)
Phone
6194216700
City
Chula Vista, California
Address
900 Otay Lakes Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91910-7297

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate2,3956 international (0.3%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
319
Psychology, General
224
Biological and Physical Sciences
194
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
179
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
142
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
129
Economics, General
112
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping
77
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
61
Humanities/Humanistic Studies
60

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Southwestern College 2023

The graduation data from Southwestern College for 2023 reveals significant insights into various academic disciplines. Notably, applied horticulture emerged with one graduate at the associate level, indicating a niche interest in this field. In contrast, sociology showed a robust performance with 102 graduates, underscoring the subject's relevance in today’s societal context, particularly as social issues gain prominence in public discourse.

The performing arts, encompassing photography, cinematography, and drama, exhibited limited graduations, with only nine graduates in photography and eight in drama. This low number may reflect the competitive nature of these fields and potentially the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on arts education and participation. The absence of graduates in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate levels across these categories could suggest a gap in advanced educational opportunities or a lack of interest in pursuing higher degrees in the arts.

In engineering-related fields, there were minimal graduates in areas such as drafting, industrial safety, and hazardous waste management. This signals a potential shortage of skilled professionals in these critical sectors, which could have implications for industry standards and safety protocols.

Overall, the data highlights an interesting landscape of educational outcomes, with certain fields thriving while others appear to struggle. As the job market evolves, educational institutions may need to reassess program offerings to better align with both student interests and workforce demands.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 437 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.$29,365
Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management.$29,365
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping.-
Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General.-
Banking and Financial Support Services.-
Hospitality Administration/Management, General.-
Real Estate.-
Sales, Distribution, and Marketing Operations, General.-
Health professionshas 281 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist.$81,096
Health Unit Coordinator/Ward Clerk.-
Medical/Clinical Assistant.$35,075
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).-
Surgical Technology/Technologist.-
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$97,013
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training.-
Liberal arts has 239 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.-
Psychology has 224 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Psychology, General.$28,997
Social sciencehas 223 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Anthropology, General.-
Economics, General.-
Geography.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 194 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biological and Physical Sciences.-
Homeland security has 140 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Corrections.$32,122
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$32,122
Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician.-
Fire Science/Fire-fighting.-
Forensic Science and Technology.-
Visual and Performing artshas 94 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Visual and Performing Arts, General.-
Dance, General.-
Graphic Design.-
Game and Interactive Media Design.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Communication has 81 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Journalism.-
Radio and Television.-
Computer and information sciencehas 71 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Information Technology.-
Computer Programming/Programmer, General.-
Computer Science.-
Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design.-
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications.-
Computer Support Specialist.-
Public administrationhas 55 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Human Services, General.-
Public Administration.-
Biologyhas 42 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Educationhas 40 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs.-
Human science has 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General.-
Human Development and Family Studies, General.$34,191
Parks, recreation, leisure has 34 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Mathematics, General.-
English has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
English Language and Literature, General.-
Legal professionshas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Legal Studies.-
Legal Administrative Assistant/Secretary.-
Legal Assistant/Paralegal.-
Foreign languages has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Italian Language and Literature.-
Spanish Language and Literature.-
History has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
History, General.-
Architecture has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Architectural Technology/Technician.-
Culinary has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Cooking and Related Culinary Arts, General.-
Mechanic and repair has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.-
Construction trades has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Building/Home/Construction Inspection/Inspector.-
Building/Construction Site Management/Manager.-
Engineering technologieshas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General.-
Industrial Safety Technology/Technician.-
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.-
Communications technologies has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Photographic and Film/Video Technology/Technician.-
Recording Arts Technology/Technician.-
Physical scienceshas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Philosophy has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Philosophy.-
Agricultural has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General.-
Cultural has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Ethnic Studies.-

Students

20,986 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 69.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (20,986)

Hispanic
13,363 · 63.7%
White
2,922 · 13.9%
Asian
1,907 · 9.1%
Black
1,091 · 5.2%
Unknown
769 · 3.7%
Two or more races
762 · 3.6%
International
67 · 0.3%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
7.9%
18–19
27.8%
20–21
16.7%
22–24
12.5%
25 and over
35.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Southwestern College in 2023

The enrollment data from Southwestern College for the year 2023 reveals some interesting insights into the student demographics. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 3,106, with a nearly balanced gender ratio, where males account for 48.9% and females for 51.1%. This slight female majority is consistent with national trends in higher education, where women often outnumber men in undergraduate programs.

Among the undergraduate continuing students, the enrollment jumps significantly to 10,637, with females representing 56.3% and males 43.7%. This indicates that retention rates may favor female students, which is a trend observed across many institutions. The gender dynamics shift slightly among transfer students, where males account for 45.4% and females 54.6%.

In terms of diversity, the data on specific racial groups is somewhat limited, particularly for continuing and transfer students. However, among freshmen, White students comprise a significant portion, with 232 individuals identified. The representation of other racial groups, including Asian, Latinx, and African American students, is also important to note, as these figures can demonstrate the college's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Overall, the data from Southwestern College reflects broader trends in higher education regarding gender enrollment and retention. It is essential for institutions to continue focusing on diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all students feel represented and supported throughout their academic journeys. As societal dynamics evolve, it will be crucial for colleges to adapt and foster an environment conducive to the success of every student, regardless of their background.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Southwestern College

The age distribution of students at Southwestern College for the year 2023 reveals intriguing patterns, particularly in the younger demographics. Notably, the largest cohort is found in the 18-19 age bracket, with a total of 4,762 students, which constitutes approximately 39% of the total student population. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that younger students are increasingly enrolling in higher education immediately after high school.

As we examine older age groups, there is a gradual decline in student numbers. The 20-21 age group has 3,177 students, which is about 26% of the total, followed by the 22-24 age group at 2,303 students, or roughly 19%. This decline may reflect the challenges faced by older students, such as balancing education with work and family commitments, a trend that has been highlighted in various reports regarding adult education.

Interestingly, there is a noticeable absence of graduate male students in the data, which may point to a potential gap in the enrollment of men in advanced studies at Southwestern College. Furthermore, the 30-34 and 35-39 age groups, while representing a smaller fraction, still indicate that there are mature students seeking further education, which is a positive sign of lifelong learning.

Overall, the data suggests a strong presence of traditional-age students, while also highlighting the importance of supporting older and graduate students in their educational pursuits. As the college continues to evolve, it may be beneficial to implement targeted programs that cater to the diverse needs of its student body, ensuring inclusivity for all ages.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.3%

67 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.5%2017: 0.6%2018: 0.3%2019: 0.3%2020: 0.1%2021: 0.1%2022: 0.1%2023: 0.1%2024: 0.1%2025: 0.3%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Southwestern College

The data on international student enrollment at Southwestern College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, highlighting underlying trends in higher education. Notably, the peak year for international undergraduate students was 2009, with a staggering 12.78% of the total undergraduate population being international students. This surge can be attributed to a global interest in studying in the United States, driven by the perceived value of American degrees and the cultural exchange they offer.

However, the subsequent years depict a decline in the percentage of international students, reaching a concerning low of just 0.06% in 2023. This downward trajectory raises questions regarding the factors influencing international student mobility. Economic conditions, visa policies, and the global pandemic have likely played a role in deterring prospective students from choosing Southwestern College.

The decline is particularly troubling as it contrasts sharply with the increasing demand for international education. A recent report indicated that many institutions are actively working to attract international talent, recognizing the diverse perspectives and skills these students bring. As competition intensifies among universities worldwide, Southwestern College may need to reassess its strategies to engage and recruit international students more effectively.

In summary, the data reflects a critical moment for Southwestern College as it navigates the challenges and opportunities presented by international student enrollment. Addressing the decline and revitalizing its appeal to international students will be essential for fostering a diverse academic community and enhancing the overall educational experience.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$34,537

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$10,640
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$1,344
Room and board
$23,897
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 95% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 108%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$305M

Government grants and contracts
$274M90.0%
Investment return
$16.0M5.3%
Tuition and fees
$9.8M3.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.7M1.5%

Expenses$296M

Instruction
$94.3M31.9%
Scholarships
$61.5M20.8%
Student services
$34.2M11.6%
Academic support
$32.5M11.0%
Institutional support
$25.8M8.7%
Public service
$18.7M6.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.5M1.2%
Research
$575K0.2%
Other
$24.6M8.3%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$105,520peers $68,588
Instructor
$105,520peers $61,593

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
2025
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football98-
Soccer3428
Baseball37-
Basketball1414
Track and Field (Outdoor)174
Water Polo1011
Softball-20
Swimming88
Volleyball-16
Cross Country69
Tennis-10
2024
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football68-
Soccer3428
Swimming1128
Baseball35-
Basketball1714
Water Polo1311
Track and Field (Outdoor)166
Softball-17
Cross Country77
Volleyball-14
Tennis-13
2023
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football116-
Soccer3525
Baseball41-
Basketball1614
Track and Field (Outdoor)188
Swimming166
Water Polo129
Softball-14
Cross Country38
Volleyball-11
Tennis-8

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Southwestern College:

  1. University of California-San Diego - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, UCSD is a prestigious research university known for its cutting-edge programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. University of Southern California - Also ranked 28th, USC is a renowned private research university located in Los Angeles, offering a diverse range of programs and a strong alumni network.

  3. California Institute of Technology - Ranked 7th, Caltech is a world-leading science and engineering institute known for its rigorous academic programs and research opportunities.

  4. Chapman University - With a rank of 133, Chapman University is a private university in Orange, California, recognized for its strong programs in film, business, and the arts.

  5. Harvey Mudd College - Ranked 16th, Harvey Mudd is a highly regarded liberal arts college focused on science and engineering, offering a unique blend of technical education and humanities.

These institutions provide a variety of academic programs and opportunities for students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Burglary
12
Motor vehicle theft
9
Stalking
9
Dating violence
4
Rape
1
Drug arrests
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Southwestern College

The crime data from Southwestern College reveals a notable decline in crime rates over the past decade. In 2013, the average number of infractions per 1,000 students was 2.47, which has decreased significantly to just 1.03 in 2023. This decline suggests that the institution has potentially implemented effective safety measures and crime prevention strategies, contributing to a safer campus environment for students.

Among the various types of offenses, gun-related arrests were reported consistently, although their numbers fluctuated. The highest recorded incidents occurred in 2013 and 2014. However, recent years have shown a concerning absence of such arrests, indicating either a reduction in incidents or possibly underreporting. Drug-related arrests also exhibited a downward trend, with the most recent figures indicating a significant drop to minimal occurrences. This trend may reflect broader societal changes, including changes in drug policy and increased awareness around substance abuse.

The overall downward trajectory in crime rates can be seen as a positive sign, aligning with national trends where many colleges are reporting fewer campus crimes. Nevertheless, continued vigilance is essential to maintain this momentum. Colleges need to engage with their communities, promoting safety awareness and providing resources for students to report any incidents. It is crucial to remain proactive in addressing potential issues to ensure a supportive environment conducive to education.

For calculating crime rates, please refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Southwestern College include Tom Waits (Singer-songwriter and actor), J. Michael Straczynski (Screenwriter, filmmaker and comic book writer) and Julieta Venegas (Mexican singer and songwriter).

More alumni (5, by field)

Politics and law

  • Kristin Jacobs 1959–2020

    Member of the Florida House of Representatives

    Also attended: Broward College

Arts and media

Sports

  • Kevin Ginkel 1994–

    Baseball pitcher who played for the Diamondbacks

    Also attended: University of Arizona

  • Oliver Ross 1974–

    Former NFL offensive lineman

  • Ogemdi Nwagbuo 1985–

    Former NFL defensive tackle

    Also attended: Michigan State University

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

Related News

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.