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SWIFT Health Programs
Funded by an historic gift to CSU San Marcos, the Scholars in Wellness and Innovation Fast-Track (SWIFT) Health Programs offer an accelerated, three-year bachelor's program for students interested in preparing for mental and behavioral health professional opportunities. This program is offered for the following academic degrees:
Program Components
- Dual Enrollment
Through a committed collaboration between high schools and the university, the students in specific regional high schools have the opportunity to take university-level course work while enrolled in high school.
Participating school districts:
- Poway Unified
- San Marcos Unified
- Vista Unified
- Accelerated Pathway
Students complete an accelerated 3-year degree that includes three summers of specialized experiential learning and paid work experiences that count toward their degree. Specialized advisors and peer mentors help student progress through the program within a cohort of fellow students and a tight-knit community of learners who engage in the curriculum together.
- Experiential Learning and Career Preparation
Graduates are equipped with the competencies necessary for immediate contribution in their professional roles upon graduation. The program integrates industry insights, expert guidance, and tailored coursework. Summer experiences include hands-on activities and paid work experiences designed to help students acquire practical skills, critical-thinking abilities, and a profound understanding of the complexities inherent in their field.
PAID WORK EXPERIENCES. Eligible students advance their career preparation with paid work experiences, simulations, and real-world projects during customized summer sessions.
- Workforce Certification
The program’s degrees are embedded with coursework and experiences needed to obtain specialized workforce certifications. Students in the Public Health track are positioned to take the CHES exam. Students in the Human Development track are positioned to become a Certified Wellness Coach.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to cultivate a new generation of mental and behavioral health professionals through accelerated bachelor's programs that emphasize dual enrollment, community collaboration, and real-world experience. We are dedicated to closing the gap of behavioral and mental health professionals and enhancing the mental health and well being of youth and young adults in the San Diego County and beyond. We will equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for immediate impact in the workforce, thereby addressing the urgent need in our community for professionals that are leaders in the mental and behavioral health fields.
Values Statement
Student-Centered Approach: We place our students at the heart of everything we do, providing personalized support, guidance, and resources to help them achieve their academic and career goals.
Community Impact: We are dedicated to addressing the mental health needs of our community by preparing students to provide compassionate, effective, and culturally competent care to diverse populations.
Responsiveness to Workforce Needs: We align our curriculum and training with the current and emerging needs of the mental and behavioral health workforce, ensuring our graduates are ready to address the most pressing issues facing the field today.
Collaboration: We foster a collaborative learning environment where our region’s high schools, higher education, and industry partners work together to create a supportive and enriching educational experience.
Practical Experience: We prioritize hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that prepare our students to meet real-world challenges and make immediate, meaningful contributions to the workforce.