Expanding Educational Opportunities in San Diego
San Diego State University (SDSU) and the San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) are taking significant steps to make it easier for students to transition from community colleges to four-year institutions. This initiative includes the development of a shared academic facility designed to support students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The collaboration marks a major shift in how higher education is structured in the region, with a focus on improving access and streamlining the transfer process.
A New Facility for Shared Learning
The new STEM-focused building will be the first academic structure to open at SDSU’s Mission Valley campus. This location is part of a larger plan that includes residential, retail, and business developments surrounding Snapdragon Stadium. The facility is set to provide classrooms, laboratories, and office spaces for faculty, staff, and students from both SDSU and SDCCD. This shared space is expected to foster greater collaboration between the two institutions and enhance the educational experience for all students involved.
Strengthening Access to Four-Year Degrees
A key component of this partnership is an agreement signed by both institutions that aims to expand access to four-year degrees for hundreds of students. Starting in the fall of 2026, eligible students who earn associate degrees in specific majors from San Diego City, Mesa, and Miramar colleges will be guaranteed admission to SDSU. This initiative is designed to simplify the transfer process and provide a clearer pathway for students seeking to continue their education.
In addition to guaranteed admission, SDCCD students will have the opportunity to take more courses offered by SDSU. This expanded access is expected to help bridge the gap between community colleges and four-year universities, making it easier for students to achieve their academic goals.
Building a Stronger Workforce
The new facility is also intended to support workforce development by preparing students for high-demand careers. As the demand for skilled professionals in STEM fields continues to grow, this partnership is positioned to meet those needs by providing students with the necessary training and resources.
According to SDSU, this collaboration is the first of its kind within the California State University (CSU) system. It represents a proactive approach to addressing the challenges that many community college students face when trying to transfer to a four-year institution.
Addressing Transfer Challenges
Despite the benefits of transferring to a four-year university, many California community college students never make the transition due to the complexity of the process. However, local community colleges in San Diego have shown higher-than-average transfer rates, with transfer students accounting for nearly 40% of SDSU’s incoming class each year.
This new guaranteed admission program builds upon existing initiatives by SDSU and other CSU campuses aimed at increasing these numbers. By creating a more seamless transfer process, the program hopes to encourage more students to pursue bachelor’s degrees and contribute to the region’s growing workforce.
Looking Ahead
As the partnership between SDSU and SDCCD continues to develop, it is expected to serve as a model for other institutions looking to improve access to higher education. The shared facility and guaranteed admission program represent a commitment to supporting student success and fostering stronger connections between community colleges and four-year universities.
