Overview
SWC Philosophy Includes Challenging Courses, Transformational Classes, and Experiential Training
Southwestern College (SWC) students have been licensed as counselors or art therapists throughout the U.S. and provide a significant contribution to the mental health services of New Mexico and other states. The SWC philosophy explains that to be true agents of transformation, students must understand their authentic selves and life paths. The SWC philosophy involves providing all students with a foundation of relevant coursework for professional licensure in conjunction with cutting edge, transformational classes and experiential training. Instructors and presenters at the college are leaders in these areas.
The college provides graduate-level degree programs that prepare students to become helping professionals. Graduate students develop qualities of transformational leadership so they may assist others in achieving their highest potential. All students are challenged to succeed in the context of a rigorous applied curriculum. Master's programs offer innovative education that incorporates academic and experiential learning. Graduates of the college leave with the skills to foster transformation in themselves and others.
The mission of Southwestern College is to promote a holistic approach to counselor training and development. By guiding a student through profound intentional, transformational experiences, the college's mission is to prepare future counselors to be effective, professional agents of change. The college's belief is that a movement toward global peace and understanding starts with the individual and travels to others through the graduate's therapeutic work in a chosen field.
Three Master's Degrees Available at SWC Prepare Students for Licensed Counseling Professions
The SWC master's degree programs prepare students for a range of careers in the mental health profession. Students may earn an M.A. in Counseling, M.A. in Art Therapy/Counseling, or M.A. in Counseling with a Concentration in Grief, Loss, and Trauma. The grief counseling and art therapy/counseling programs are specialized degree programs.
The general counseling degree provides a wide perspective on counseling with a foundation in the holistic approach. The three degree programs allow students to excel in the areas of theoretical knowledge, applied skills, and character strength. The master's degree programs require a two-year commitment, with options for extended studies. In the first year, students participate in self-reflection while receiving a foundation in the nature of change and its applications. In the second year, emphasis moves to professional identity and clinical skill development as students gain the abilities needed for facilitating change.
The degree programs encompass coursework, practicum hours, and an internship. Southwestern operates a counseling center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where students acquire general counseling experience and internships. At the center, students and interns address the multi-faceted needs of clients. SWC certificate programs also are founded on the SWC learning philosophy. Students enroll in certificate courses to learn a new counseling skill, such as art therapy or grief counseling. Certificate programs help licensed counselors and students to expand their knowledge base.
The Sunny, Artistic Community of Santa Fe Shares the Natural Surroundings of New Mexico
Southwestern College is located in sunny Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico. The city shares mountain backdrops, high-desert vistas, and wondrous sunsets with students. Culture is abundant here, as the city holds more than 200 galleries and a dozen museums for the student experience. SWC students can explore the Indian Arts and Culture or Georgia O'Keeffe Museums as studies permit. Music-lovers can enjoy the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival and renowned Santa Fe Opera.
Santa Fe is a northern New Mexico artistic community, a vibrant center for activities ranging from dance to writing. It is the perfect place for students to find recreation and festivals. Students interested in art and art therapy counseling will find celebrated collections at the New Mexico Museum of Art. In the area of Museum Hill, students can explore Spanish Colonial folk art collections and learn about colonial life.
Opportunities for outdoor enjoyment lie within close proximity to the college and include horseback riding, skiing, fishing, and boating. New Mexico is known for hiking and rafting too.
Within the heart of this artistic city and stunning natural surroundings, Southwestern College operates a counseling center that conveniently serves the residents of Santa Fe and northern New Mexico. Students contribute their skills at the center as they become transformed and knowledgeable counselors or art therapists.
