45,000+ students funded globally

About the school

The University of Southern California's Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, founded in 1880, stands as a beacon of academic excellence and innovation on the West Coast of the United States. With a rich history spanning over a century, Dornsife College has consistently upheld its commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration. As one of USC's most prestigious academic units, it offers a diverse array of programmes and majors across the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Through rigorous academic pursuits, groundbreaking research, and a dedicated faculty, Dornsife College has played a pivotal role in shaping the minds of generations of scholars, and continues to be at the forefront of higher education, preparing students to face the challenges of an ever-evolving world.

Where is the school located?

The Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences is located in the heart of Los Angeles, California, nestled within the vibrant and culturally diverse community that defines this iconic city. This proximity to the dynamic landscape of Los Angeles enhances the college's ability to offer unique educational experiences and research opportunities.

Life at Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

Life at the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences is a dynamic and enriching experience that reflects the diversity and energy of Los Angeles. The college's vibrant community fosters a culture of intellectual curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Students at Dornsife have access to a wide range of academic resources, including distinguished faculty who are at the forefront of their fields and a multitude of interdisciplinary programmes that encourage exploration and innovation. Beyond academics, the college offers a plethora of extracurricular activities, from student organisations and clubs to cultural events and community engagement opportunities, ensuring that students can pursue their passions and develop a well-rounded skill set.

Additional benefits of studying at Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

Studying at the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences offers a multitude of additional benefits that extend well beyond the confines of traditional academia. One standout advantage is the college's commitment to interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to bridge the gap between different fields of knowledge. This cross-disciplinary approach not only fosters well-rounded individuals but also prepares them for the complex challenges of our interconnected world. Moreover, Dornsife College prides itself on its extensive network of alumni who have gone on to excel in a wide range of careers and industries. This network provides students with unparalleled opportunities for mentorship, internships, and job placement, giving them a head start in their professional journeys. The college also emphasises research and innovation, encouraging students to actively participate in groundbreaking projects and scholarly endeavours. This hands-on experience equips graduates with practical skills and a deep understanding of their chosen fields, setting them apart in today's competitive job market.

Admissions criteria

Here is a broad view of the admission criteria required for international students pursuing graduate studies at University of Southern California - Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences: Strong academic records Standardised test scores, such as the GRE or the GMAT. These scores can help admissions officers assess your academic ability and potential for success in engineering school Letters of recommendation from professors or other academic mentors can help admissions officers get to know you better and learn more about your academic strengths and potential Personal statement Experience: Admissions officers also look for students with relevant experience, such as internships or research projects. This can demonstrate your interest in engineering and your ability to succeed in the field Please consult the school’s website for detailed information and any updates to this information.

Job placements

Job placements at the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences reflect the institution's commitment to academic excellence and real-world readiness. The college's dedicated career services and extensive alumni network play pivotal roles in facilitating successful transitions from academia to the professional world. Graduates benefit from personalised career guidance, resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events, all tailored to help them secure internships and job opportunities in their chosen fields. Dornsife's prime location in Los Angeles also offers a distinct advantage, as it is home to a vast array of industries, including entertainment, technology, finance, healthcare, and more. This proximity to such a diverse job market provides students with numerous avenues for internships and job placements, enabling them to gain practical experience and build valuable industry connections. Furthermore, the college's strong emphasis on research and innovation equips graduates with the skills and expertise that employers seek. Many Dornsife alumni find themselves well-prepared for leadership roles, not only due to their academic achievements but also because of the critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability instilled during their time at the college.

FAQs

• Which Dornsife master's programs are STEM-designated? Dornsife says the MS in Economics and Data Science is STEM-designated. The MS in Innovation Economics, Law and Regulation and the Master of International Trade Law and Economics are also STEM-designated. The first is a joint program with the Viterbi School of Engineering. The other two are joint programs with the Gould School of Law.
• Is there any Dornsife master's with a January start? Yes, one. The Master of International Trade Law and Economics offers a spring and a fall start. It is a one- or two-year, 32-unit program on campus. It is open to a bachelor's degree in any field, but you need a solid base in mathematics, including calculus. USC's Spring 2027 classes begin on Jan 11, 2027.
• I studied maths or physics. Which program fits me? The MS in Mathematical Finance is designed for graduates in applied mathematics, physics and engineering, and for economics, business and finance graduates with strong mathematics. The MS in Economics and Data Science has eight courses, four in economics and four in data science. Intermediate economics courses are preferred.
• What counts as proof of money for my I-20? The I-20 is the form you use to apply for your F-1 student visa. USC accepts savings and checking accounts, bank letters or solvency certificates, fixed deposits, and approved education loans. It does not accept gold, property, retirement funds, tax returns, salary statements or Demat accounts. So if most of your family's money is in property or gold, you need another way to show funds. A loan can be that way, but only a fully approved one counts, not an "in-principle" approval. With Prodigy Finance you can borrow up to $220,000* with no collateral needed, so you do not have to put up property. Check that your loan papers meet USC's rules before you send them.
• How long is the MS in Spatial Economics and Data Analysis? It can be finished in four semesters. It links an applied economics master's with data science and spatial sciences. Plan your money for two years, not one. Prodigy Finance has funded 47,000+ international master's students.

*Loan offers are subject to our eligibility, funding and credit assessment criteria.

Checked on Oct 16, 2026 against Dornsife's Economics master's page, the MS Economics and Data Science announcement, USC's country requirements page, its guidelines for financial support and the registration calendar.