Founded and opened in the summer of 1946 by two pharmacists, SWU originally started as Southwestern Colleges and achieved university status on December 11, 1959.

The university changed the logo and closed its South Campus in Basak San Nicolas, Cebu City.

It is widely recognized as the most diverse institution in Cebu due to the various nationality of students that came from 34 countries in five continents.

The Southwestern Medical Center (formerly Sacred Heart Hospital), Pathology and Biology Museums, Library, Interfaith Chapel, Botanical Garden, and the Administrative Offices are found in the main campus.

Current programs since PHINMA acquisition (Graduate School inclusive): This article about a Philippine institution of higher education is a stub.