University of Southern California
Address: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
Phone: +1 213-740-2311
Email: admissions@usc.edu
Website: www.usc.edu
About University of Southern California
Los Angeles was little more than a frontier town in 1880 when USC first opened its doors to 53 students and 10 teachers. Today it is a world class research university, the oldest private research university in the West. Location: Los Angeles, CaliforniaUSC's University Park Campus, located in the heart of Los Angeles' Downtown Arts and Education Corridor, is home to the USC College of Letters, Arts and Sciences and many professional schools. The Health Sciences Campus, to the northeast of downtown Los Angeles, is home to the Keck School of Medicine of USC, the School of Pharmacy, three major teaching hospitals and programs in Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, and Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy. USC also has programs and centers in Marina Del Rey, Orange County, Sacramento, Washington, D.C., Catalina Island, Alhambra and around Southern California. Childrens Hospital Los Angeles is staffed by USC faculty from the Keck School of Medicine and is often referred to as USC's third campus. President: Steven B. SampleUnder the leadership of USC's 10th president, USC has become world-renowned in the fields of communication and multimedia technologies, has received national acclaim for its innovative community outreach programs and has solidified its status as one of the nation's leading research universities.
Why University of Southern California
The University of Southern California (USC) is famous for several reasons that contribute to its global reputation:
1. Top-Tier Academics:
USC is one of the leading private research universities in the U.S. and is particularly well-regarded for its programs in cinema, business, engineering, and communications. The Marshall School of Business and the Viterbi School of Engineering consistently rank among the top programs in their respective fields. The USC School of Cinematic Arts is one of the best film schools in the world, with an illustrious history of producing top talent in the entertainment industry.
2. Hollywood and Entertainment Industry:
USC has a strong connection to Hollywood and the entertainment industry, largely through its School of Cinematic Arts, which boasts alumni like George Lucas, Ron Howard, and Shonda Rhimes. This connection has cemented its status as a powerhouse in film and television production. The university is known for shaping the future of the film industry, with a wide network of alumni in key positions across the entertainment world.
3. Athletics:
USC is famous for its athletic programs, particularly in football and Olympic sports. The USC Trojans football team has a storied history, with multiple national championships and Heisman Trophy winners. Additionally, USC athletes have won more Olympic medals than athletes from almost any other university globally, further enhancing its athletic legacy.
4. Location and Global Connections:
Located in Los Angeles, one of the most dynamic cities in the world, USC benefits from its proximity to key industries like film, technology, and international trade. It has a strong global presence, with campuses in other countries and programs that emphasize international business and global engagement. USC also has a high number of international students, making it a globally diverse institution.
5. Research Excellence:
USC is classified as a top R1 research university, denoting the highest level of research activity. The university is known for its innovations in biotechnology, artificial intelligence, computer science, and neuroscience. Its Viterbi School of Engineering and Keck School of Medicine are particularly strong in advancing research and technology.
6. Alumni Network:
USC has a powerful and influential alumni network, particularly in business, entertainment, and sports. Notable alumni include actors like Will Ferrell, directors like Ryan Coogler, business leaders like Marc Benioff (CEO of Salesforce), and countless others who have shaped industries across the globe.
These factors make USC a prestigious and influential university with a global impact across multiple sectors.
For the academic year 2023-2024, the estimated cost of attendance for undergraduates is approximately $66,640 per year for tuition alone. Detailed cost breakdowns can be found on the USC Financial Aid website (Cost and Fee).
International students must demonstrate English proficiency through tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic. Specific score requirements and additional details can be found on the International Students
USC requires applicants to submit the Common Application along with the USC Writing Supplement. Additional requirements include:
- Transcripts
- Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT (if applicable)
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
More details on application requirements can be found on the USC Admissions page (USC).
USC offers a wide range of programs, with notable strengths in:
- Business: The Marshall School of Business.
- Cinema and Media Studies: The School of Cinematic Arts.
- Engineering: The Viterbi School of Engineering.
- Law: The Gould School of Law.
- Medicine: The Keck School of Medicine.
USC is a major research institution with extensive research facilities and programs. Key research areas include cancer, stem cell, regenerative medicine, and technology innovation. USC collaborates with industries worldwide to address complex global challenges (Research).
USC offers over 150 undergraduate majors and minors and more than 400 graduate and professional programs across its various schools and departments. Detailed information on specific programs can be found on the Study Program (USC).
USC provides a variety of scholarships and financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and loans. The university is committed to affordability, providing substantial financial aid to students from diverse economic backgrounds. More information is available on the USC Financial Aid page (USC).
USC offers comprehensive support for international students, including visa and immigration advising, orientation programs, and academic support services. The Office of International Services provides resources and assistance to help international students adjust and succeed at USC (USC).
USC's Career Center offers robust support for job placement and career development, including job fairs, resume workshops, and internship placements. The center helps students and alumni navigate their professional journeys successfully (Jobs).
USC boasts a wide array of distinguished faculty across various fields:
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Leonard Adleman: A professor of computer science and molecular biology at USC, Adleman is a co-inventor of the RSA encryption algorithm, one of the most widely used encryption systems in the world. He also pioneered DNA computing, which uses biological molecules for computational processes.
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Antonio Damasio: A professor of neuroscience, psychology, and philosophy, Damasio is internationally recognized for his work on the relationship between emotions and decision-making. His research has significantly influenced the fields of psychology, neuroscience, and cognitive science.
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Manuel Castells: A professor of communication, Castells is a globally influential sociologist and communication scholar, known for his work on the information society and network theory. His work is considered foundational in understanding how the digital age has transformed societies globally.
These professors and Nobel laureates exemplify USC's contributions to a wide range of disciplines, from chemistry and computer science to economics and neuroscience.
The University of Southern California (USC) is home to several Nobel Prize winners, both current and past faculty. Some of the most notable include:
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George Olah: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1994, George Olah was a USC professor and researcher recognized for his groundbreaking work on the chemistry of carbocations. His research had a significant impact on the fields of organic chemistry and energy.
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Leonid Hurwicz: While not at USC when he won the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2007, Hurwicz was a former USC professor. He was honored for his pioneering work in mechanism design theory, which helped to explain how economic systems allocate resources.
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Arieh Warshel: A professor of chemistry at USC, Warshel won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2013 for his work in developing multiscale models for complex chemical systems. His work helped transform the understanding of chemical reactions and their mechanisms, particularly in biological molecules.