University of Southern California

This unique Bachelor of Science degree offers a highly select group of students an integrated, four-year course of study that provides in-depth learning in four core areas, deemed new literacies for the 21st century: art and design; engineering and computer science; business and venture management; and communication. Through the Academy’s Core, students learn applied skills and gain understanding of the theories, concepts, and “language” common to each area, and the innovative potential where they intersect. Academy electives serve to customize each student’s experience to their individual strengths or desired focus. The fourth-year Garage Experience moves student teams from concept to creation, vision to prototype. Throughout the program students are taught to think seamlessly across multiple disciplines, and to apply a vast array of relevant technologies and techniques toward innovative problem solving.

The degree requires a total of 128 units, including 76 units in the Core and 12 units in major electives. Students must select elective courses from the Academy’s approved list of offerings in Design, Technology, Venture Management, Communication and Health Innovation, or from future electives as they become available. In consultation with their academic adviser, students may petition to create unique degree paths by selecting additional courses from academic units or disciplines outside of the Academy. In addition to required courses, students may elect to register for other Academy experiences such as domestic and international study tours, study abroad, industry and impact labs, and internships.