Overview of USC Academic Offerings
The University of Southern California (USC) offers a broad set of undergraduate and graduate majors through its multiple schools and colleges. Students can pursue programs in business, engineering, communication, public policy, health sciences, arts, and sciences, among others. Because USC is a large research university, learners often benefit from interdisciplinary options, hands-on projects, and faculty mentorship. This guide explains how programs are organized, how to evaluate fit, and how to navigate planning, prerequisites, and graduation requirements.
Choosing a major at USC involves considering academic strengths, career interests, curricular structure, and opportunities such as research, internships, and study abroad. The following sections help you compare programs, understand typical requirements, and decide how to align a USC education with long-term goals.
How USC Organizes Its Majors
USC divides its academic offerings by school and college, each with distinct curricula and admission processes. Some schools accept students directly as undergraduates, while others require a separate application or track within a broader program. Majors are often structured as Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) options, with variations in required courses, electives, and capstone experiences. Graduate programs typically follow a more prescribed path, with fewer electives and stronger expectations for specialization or research.
Below is a compact overview of program types and levels you can expect across USC.
| Program Type | Typical Degree | Standard Duration | Delivery Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Major | BA or BS | 4 years (full-time) | On campus, with some hybrid options |
| Graduate Major | Master’s or Doctoral | 1–3 years (master’s); 4–7+ years (PhD) | On campus, with limited online pathways |
| Joint/Dual Programs | Combined degrees (e.g., BS/MBA) | Accelerated timelines (often 5 years) | Integrated coursework and advising |
Popular Undergraduate Majors
While popularity can vary by year and application cycle, certain programs consistently draw interest because of career outcomes, reputation, and interdisciplinary options. These majors emphasize critical thinking, technical skills, and experiential learning. Note that some programs may have additional audition, portfolio, or supplemental application steps.
- Business Administration (USC Marshall)
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Communication and Media Arts
- Public Policy, International Relations, and Political Science
- Health Sciences and Related Pre-Health Tracks
- Psychology and Neuroscience
- Film, Television, and Interactive Media
- Liberal Arts & Sciences (interdisciplinary options)
Key Considerations When Choosing a USC Major
Selecting a program involves more than interest in a subject area. You should evaluate curriculum design, opportunities for experiential learning, faculty expertise, facilities, and career support. Because USC emphasizes global engagement, study abroad and international partnerships are often integrated into many majors. Additionally, alumni networks and employer relationships can vary by field, so it is useful to examine outcomes data and program-specific resources.
Below is a comparison of factors to weigh as you assess fit.
| Factor | What to Examine | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum Structure | Core requirements, electives, capstone | Determines flexibility and depth |
| Faculty and Research | Active projects, mentorship opportunities | Supports learning and future opportunities |
| Career Outcomes | Employment rates, typical industries | Indicates program ROI and pathways |
| Experiential Learning | Internships, labs, studios, study abroad | Builds skills and professional networks |
| Admission and Progress Policies | GPA standards, prerequisites, reapplication | Affects persistence and timely graduation |
Application and Preparatory Steps
Applying to a USC program typically involves submitting academic records, standardized test scores (optional for many programs), essays, recommendations, and, where relevant, audition or portfolio materials. Deadlines vary by school and major, with some competitive programs having earlier or supplemental requirements. If you are considering a major that requires prerequisite coursework, plan your current studies accordingly and consult academic advisors early.
For graduate applicants, relevant work experience, research, or a portfolio can strengthen your application. Because each school within USC has its own processes, review program-specific pages and contact admissions or faculty if you have questions about alignment with your goals.
Academic Support and Outcomes
USC provides advising, tutoring, career counseling, and major-specific resources to help students progress and succeed. Students often participate in research, internships, and service-learning projects that connect coursework to real-world challenges. Outcomes vary by program, but common paths include employment in industry, further study in graduate or professional programs, and engagement in civic and global contexts. Reviewing program-specific outcome reports and speaking with current students or alumni can offer clearer insight into long-term value.
Use this overview as a starting point to explore USC majors in depth, match programs to your interests and goals, and develop a practical plan for application and success.