Southwestern College Higher Education Center at San Ysidro - (619) 216-6790

We offer a wide range of courses for students to pursue an associate degree, general education requirements for transfer & develop occupational skills.

First established in 1988, the Higher Education Center at San Ysidro is located at 460 West San Ysidro Boulevard, only minutes away from the U.S.-Mexico international border. Rebuilt in 2009, with a greater number of classrooms and improved student facilities, the Center has the capacity to serve 2,000 students, providing quality instruction and student services in one convenient location.

The Center’s instructional program is proud to house two programs: Child Development, and the Legal Interpretation and Translation Program, as well, a wide range of courses is offered for students to pursue an associate degree, complete general education requirements for transfer, develop occupational skills for employment, or undertake personal development courses. Courses are offered Monday through Saturday via a flexible schedule, including day and evening onsite, online and hybrid classes, in a full-semester or fast track format.

In support of students’ academic achievement, the Center offers a variety of student services including Admissions, Assessment, Counseling, Disability Support Services, EOPS, Financial Aid, Health Services, Library Services, Student Activities and Tutoring. Additionally, the Center offers a computer lab with internet and printing access, as well as staff available to answer technical questions to support classroom instruction and practice.

Our dedicated instructors and bilingual staff invite you to take your first step to success by pursuing your educational goals in our friendly and professional environment. We look forward to assisting you!


A Living Memorial

The Southwestern College Higher Education Center at San Ysidro was built in 1988 on the site of the July 18, 1984 tragedy at the McDonald's restaurant. Southwestern College officials worked closely with civic leaders to solicit contributions for the construction of the San Ysidro Memorial to honor the memory of the 21 victims. Located at the front of the Center, the San Ysidro Memorial was dedicated in December 1990. Today, the memorial continues to serve as a tribute and a promise to enhance the lives of the people of San Ysidro and its neighboring communities, through education.

Tags: College & University,Educational Organization