Bridging Vision and Reality: Exploring the Feasibility of Elevating San Pablo Colleges to University Status

This study explored the feasibility of transforming San Pablo Colleges (SPC) into a university in light of its upcoming 80th founding anniversary in 2027. Grounded in the national trend of institutional elevation among private colleges, the study sought to assess stakeholder awareness, perceptions, and evaluations of SPC’s readiness across academic, infrastructural, and organizational dimensions. A quantitative descriptive research design was employed, utilizing a validated online survey administered to 460 stakeholders composed of students, faculty, and employees. Descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, and mean scores were used to interpret the data. Findings revealed a strong level of stakeholder familiarity with SPC and an overwhelmingly positive perception of its academic quality and reputation, with over 90% rating it as excellent or good. Additionally, a large majority expressed awareness of and support for the university transition proposal. Most respondents affirmed that SPC possesses the necessary academic resources and faculty qualifications, though emphasized the need for strategic infrastructural investments. Stakeholders recommended the introduction of new programs such as Architecture, Engineering, and Health Sciences while maintaining existing academic offerings. The transition is expected to yield significant benefits for students, faculty, and the broader community, particularly in terms of educational opportunities, career growth, and regional development. The study concludes that SPC is institutionally prepared and publicly supported to pursue university status. It recommends the formulation of a strategic transition plan grounded in stakeholder inclusion, infrastructure development, and quality assurance standards set by CHED.