About University of Southern California

Why Consider the University of Southern California?

Besides the fact that USC is a topnotch research institute, there are many great reasons to consider attending the University of Southern California campus in Los Angeles. The 15-acre student learning and living complex exists in the heart of Los Angeles, a global center for technology, international business, and the arts. Plus, USC leadership and academic, social, and recreational programming helps provide a culturally rich and dynamic learning environment.

Here are some other great reasons to consider USC:

USC’s Research Projects

As a research institute, USC provides a steady stream of ideas, innovations, and new technologies, art, and knowledge to the global community. It has nearly $700 million in annual research expenditures and has a large graduate program in science, engineering, and health, where many of its projects live. An Office of Research, research centers, labs and research services, clinical trials, and programs for managing grants and contracts all make research at USC a worthwhile endeavor.

The USC Ranking

U.S. News ranked the University of Southern California #21 (tie) in National Universities. The school ranked #5 (tie) in Best Colleges for Veterans and # 15 (tie) in Most Innovative Schools.At the graduate level, University of Southern California majors ranked #1 in Physical Therapy, #3 in Occupational Therapy, #4 in Public Affairs, #9 in Pharmacy, and #12 in Social Work. USC ranked #11 in Best Engineering Schools, #15 in Best Education Schools, #19 in Best Law Schools, and #24 in Best Business Schools. These high rankings are just some of many.

USC Distinguished Faculty

USC’s distinguished faculty consists of 4,000 innovative scholars, teachers, researchers, and mentors, five of whom are Nobel laureates. Dozens of other faculty members have received national honors such as the:

• MacArthur “Genius” Award
• Guggenheim Award
• National Medal of the Arts
• National Humanities Medal
• National Medal of Science
• National Medal of Technology and Innovation
• Pulitzer Prize

And, of USC’s 4,069 full-time faculty members, nearly half conduct research in addition to working as instructors.i

Dual Degrees and Progressive Master’s Degree Programs

Numerous graduate programs partner with other graduate programs to offer dual degrees, or degree programs that enable students to earn two degrees at once. Some students opt to earn two complimentary master’s degrees at once, while others opt to earn a master’s degree and a doctorate degree at once. Dual degree programs enable students to pursue more education in less time and in complimentary subjects. Similarly, progressive master’s degree programs enable undergraduate students to begin pursuing their master’s degree while still earning their bachelor’s degrees.

USC’s Location

The University of California Los Angeles campus is located in the heart of the city’s Downtown Arts and Education Corridor. This culturally thriving area gives students access to some of Los Angeles’ most beautiful and historical spots. Even on campus, students have access to classic architecture, museums, cafes, entertainment, and park-like grounds. Plus, the campus hosts a range of activities for the city, such as festivals, plays, sports events, and more.