The University of Southern California (USC) stands as a beacon of academic achievement, offering a comprehensive course catalog that empowers students to explore their passions and shape their futures. With over 40,000 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled, USC is a bustling hub of intellectual inquiry and innovation.

At the heart of USC’s educational experience lies the course catalog, a comprehensive guide to the diverse academic offerings available to students. Spanning a wide range of disciplines, from Aerospace Engineering and Architecture to Urban Planning and Writing, the catalog presents a myriad of pathways for students to pursue their academic goals.
Undergraduate Course Catalog
USC’s undergraduate course catalog encompasses a vast array of courses designed to provide students with a solid foundation in their chosen majors. Core curriculum courses in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and arts cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and a well-rounded understanding of the world.
Popular Undergraduate Majors
- Biological Sciences** (3,974 undergraduates enrolled)
- Business Administration** (3,618 undergraduates enrolled)
- Computer Science** (3,377 undergraduates enrolled)
- Psychology** (2,692 undergraduates enrolled)
- Communication** (2,012 undergraduates enrolled)
Graduate Course Catalog
The graduate course catalog at USC empowers students to delve deeper into their chosen fields of study, equipping them with advanced knowledge and skills for professional success. Master’s, doctoral, and professional programs are available in a wide range of disciplines, offering students the opportunity to specialize and excel in their chosen careers.
Popular Graduate Programs
- Master of Business Administration** (2,703 graduate students enrolled)
- Master of Science in Computer Science** (1,489 graduate students enrolled)
- Master of Education** (1,375 graduate students enrolled)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology** (1,125 graduate students enrolled)
- Master of Fine Arts in Cinematic Arts** (879 graduate students enrolled)
Course Search and Registration
To facilitate course selection and registration, USC provides user-friendly online tools that enable students to navigate the course catalog with ease. The course search function allows students to filter courses by department, subject, level, and instructor, while the shopping cart feature allows them to create a tentative schedule and enroll in courses.
Tips for Course Selection
1. Explore Your Interests: Take advantage of the vast course catalog to discover new subjects and areas of study that align with your passions.
2. Consult with Advisors: Seek guidance from academic advisors to develop a course plan that supports your academic goals and career aspirations.
3. Maintain a Balanced Schedule: Consider the workload and time commitment required for each course when creating your schedule to avoid burnout.
4. Take Advantage of Cross-Disciplinary Courses: Engage in courses that explore intersections between different fields to broaden your perspective and enhance your problem-solving abilities.
5. Prioritize Required Courses: Fulfill core curriculum and major requirements while exploring electives that complement your academic journey.
Table 1: Course Distribution by College/School
| College/School | Number of Courses | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences | 10,350 | 42% |
| Marshall School of Business | 4,210 | 17% |
| Viterbi School of Engineering | 3,980 | 16% |
| Keck School of Medicine of USC | 2,460 | 10% |
| School of Cinematic Arts | 2,370 | 9% |
Table 2: Top-Enrolled Courses by Subject Area
| Subject Area | Number of Enrolled Students | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | 15,635 | 21% |
| Business Administration | 14,210 | 19% |
| Psychology | 10,215 | 14% |
| Biological Sciences | 9,089 | 12% |
| Engineering | 8,530 | 11% |
Table 3: Course Modalities
| Course Modality | Number of Courses | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| In-Person | 14,500 | 59% |
| Online | 6,750 | 27% |
| Hybrid | 3,250 | 14% |
Table 4: Course Enrollment Trends
| Year | Total Course Enrollments | Average Course Enrollment |
|---|---|---|
| 2015-2016 | 245,000 | 20 |
| 2016-2017 | 252,000 | 21 |
| 2017-2018 | 263,000 | 22 |
| 2018-2019 | 276,000 | 23 |
Conclusion
The University of Southern California course catalog serves as an indispensable resource for students seeking an enriching academic experience. With its wide range of course offerings, user-friendly registration tools, and commitment to academic excellence, USC empowers students to pursue their passions, develop their skills, and embark on a lifelong journey of intellectual growth.
