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University of Southern CaliforniaUSC is one of the world's leading research universities. At USC, the human spirit is cultivated through learning, research and creativity.University of Southern California Skip to Content Open Site Navigation / Menu Search We Are USC Back to Main Menu The University Back to The University The University USC is a constellation of schools, centers and institutes where some of the brightest minds are leading the way to the future of education. Leadership Faculty Values Facts and Stats Traditions Our History We Are Southern California Back to We Are Southern California We Are Southern California USC, L.A. and California's southland are inextricably linked. Our passion as a great private research university serves the public good across the city and throughout SoCal — advancing society and improving lives. Our Communities We Are Trojans We Are Connectors We Are Advancing Health We Are Global Back to We Are Global We Are Global Magnify your worldview and craft solutions to today's most complex global problems. USC is your launchpad to gain international perspective and grow global networks — both essential for modern careers. Global Engagement Global Presence Educating Global Leaders Academics Back to Main Menu Schools & Academic Units Back to Schools & Academic Units Letters, Arts and Sciences Accounting Advanced Computing Architecture Art and Design Arts, Technology, Business of Innovation Business Cinematic Arts Communication and Journalism Dance Dentistry Dramatic Arts Education Engineering Gerontology Law Medicine Music Occupational Therapy Pharmacy Physical Therapy Professional Studies Public Policy Social Work Explore Our Programs Back to Explore Our Programs Explore Our Programs Discover the academic programs at USC that match your passion and interests. With 23 schools and academic divisions, we offer a range of undergraduate, graduate and professional majors. Majors & Minors Graduate & Professional Postdoctoral Programs Pre-College Programs Undergraduate Study Back to Undergraduate Study Undergraduate Study At USC, one of the best colleges in the U.S., you'll work with leading experts and supportive faculty to build your path to success. Tap into USC's dynamic, global community as you embark on your world-class undergraduate study. Your First-Year Experience Interdisciplinary Freedom Global Experiences Advising & Support Graduate & Professional Study USC International Academy USC Online High School Summer Programs Libraries Academic Calendar Schedule of Classes Life at USC Back to Main Menu Living in L.A. Campus Life Back to Campus Life Campus Life USC offers an endless variety of activities and events for students to get involved in. From student-run clubs and organizations to exclusive film screenings and outdoor yoga, there is something for everyone on campus. Housing & Dining Student Organizations and Clubs Community Service USC Village Campus Safety Health and Well-being Research & Creativity Back to Main Menu Research & Innovation Back to Research & Innovation Research & Innovation USC engages in forward-looking, collaborative research with industries around the world to find unprecedented and much-needed solutions for some of the most complex issues facing humanity today. Student Research Faculty Research Research Resources Innovation Office of Research & Innovation Creative Expression Our Impact Back to Our Impact Our Impact At USC, we are defining conversations, influencing policy and creating a healthier and more sustainable future for all. Our students, faculty and alumni are making an impact in Los Angeles and around the world. Inventing Solutions Exploring Medical Frontiers Creating New Knowledge Admission & Aid Back to Main Menu Undergraduate Admission Graduate Admission Financial Aid Visit USC USC Athletics USC Patient Care MyUSC News Events Visit Apply Giving Employees Students Faculty Alumni Families Directories What are you looking for? Search: Search Suggested Searches Majors & Minors ‘Blue Carbon,’ Greener World Rising sea levels threaten delicate “blue carbon” ecosystems that naturally absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and bury it deep within the soil. Learn how USC researchers are studying this threat through a two-part project in the tidal salt marshes of Orange County’s Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve. Story, video and photo gallery in USC News Pause Background Video Play Background Video Top Headlines Visit USC News Health Generous gift from Jerre and Mary Joy Stead boosts neurosurgery at USC The Steads have given $12.5 million to the Keck School of Medicine of USC to support transformative clinical and research innovation and entrepreneurship. Sep 12, 2024 Frontiers of Computing Celebrating 25 years of USC’s Institute for Creative Technologies Since its founding in 1999, the institute has produced cutting-edge computing research that has been used by Hollywood, academia, tech and the military. Sep 12, 2024 University New Trojans explore USC’s Student Equity and Inclusion Programs spaces A joint open house provides students with the opportunity to make new connections at start of their USC journey. Sep 9, 2024 University USC students make an impact in sustainability GREEN WEEK: As USC celebrates its fourth annual Green Week, there are more ways than ever for students to get involved in sustainability. Read the story and watch the video. Sep 5, 2024 University Updates Welcome Back Letter Greetings, guidance and policy updates as the semester begins (updated Aug. 20). USC Resources Visit USC’s Resources page. Celebrating 25 years of USC’s Institute for Creative Technologies Since its founding in 1999, the USC Institute for Creative Technologies (ICT) has been at the forefront of research and development in AI, computer graphics, geospatial sciences, human performance, learning sciences, modeling, simulation and gaming, mixed reality, medical VR and virtual humans. A part of USC’s Frontiers of Computing initiative, ICT’s labs/groups are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in computing, embodying the spirit of USC’s commitment to pioneering the future of technology. STORY AND VIDEO IN USC NEWS  USC FRONTIERS OF COMPUTING   Major Science & Technology Groups at ICT Select option to display slide Virtual Humans Affective Computing Vision and Graphics Simulation Mixed Reality Integration Environments Learning Sciences Body Computing Virtual Humans The ICT Virtual Human Toolkit is a set of tools and resources designed to help researchers and developers create realistic and engaging digital characters. Since 2009, this toolkit has been the foundation for all research at ICT on conversational AIs — computer programs that can interact with people like a human would. It has been used in various projects, including ELITE SHARP trainers and VITA. ICT Virtual Human Toolkit Affective Computing The Affective Computing Group focuses on understanding how emotions affect both human interactions and interactions between humans and machines. This includes studying how to automatically recognize emotions from different signals, creating computer models of how emotions develop and influence thinking, and applying these methods to improve teamwork between humans and machines, train people in social skills and expand knowledge about human emotions. Affective Computing Group Vision and Graphics Virtual characters are digital humans that can talk, move and interact, and they are important for entertainment, training and education. The main goal of the ICT Vision & Graphics Lab (VGL) is to make these characters look as realistic as possible, including lighting them in a way that looks natural. To achieve this, VGL uses their award-winning “Light Stage” technology, developed at ICT, to create high-quality visual details. VGL also works with major film companies like Sony Pictures Imageworks and WETA Digital. ICT Vision & Graphics Lab Simulation The Modeling and Simulation Group creates interactive and educational experiences to help train and support military personnel. They bring together researchers, experts, writers and game designers to make these experiences both interesting and useful. They’ve successfully handed over several of their advanced training tools to the U.S. Department of Defense, including a disaster simulation program and various strategic training games for the Naval Postgraduate School. Modeling and Simulation Group Mixed Reality A cognitive architecture is a proposed model of how a mind works, whether in people or machines. It focuses on the basic structures needed to create intelligent behavior and how these structures work with knowledge and skills to handle various complex situations. The aim of this project is to create a smart system that can support virtual humans and possibly intelligent robots, and ideally, help us better understand human thinking. Cognitive Architecture Integration Environments The Rapid Integration & Development Environment (RIDE) is a key R&D platform that speeds up the development of simulation technologies for the U.S. Department of Defense. It quickly creates and tests new ideas for the Army’s Synthetic Training Environment and is now also used for various Navy and Air Force projects. RIDE offers a shared space where researchers and developers can experiment with real-time modeling and simulation to see what’s possible. Rapid Integration & Development Environment Learning Sciences The ICT Learning Sciences group studies how AI can improve learning and help students achieve their goals. Our mission is to research and apply effective AI methods to make education better and fairer. We also focus on creating tools that help teachers and content creators use AI to develop and adjust educational materials. We drive innovation through our research projects and two centers: the AI Research Center of Excellence for Education and the USC Center for Generative AI and Society. ICT Learning Sciences Group Body Computing The Body Computing & Human Performance Lab is a research center focused on improving health, wellness and human performance using digital tools and data. It aims to create better health resources for both service members and the general public. The lab brings together experts in human performance, digital technology and healthcare, including sensor and app developers, strategists and designers. They work together to test and develop new technologies that enhance health and performance. Body Computing & Human Performance Lab An Explosive Kickoff to a Landmark Arts Event USC will host a spectacular fireworks display at the Coliseum to mark the opening of the arts extravaganza PST ART. Also on the agenda: art exhibitions and a symposium. Story in USC News PST ART: Art & Science Collide Southern California’s landmark arts event (previously Pacific Standard Time) aims to create opportunities for dialogue around some of the most urgent problems of our time by exploring the connections between art and science through a series of exhibitions, public programs and other resources. Don’t miss the chance to see these extraordinary exhibits. USC Pacific Asia Museum Cai Guo-Qiang: A Material Odyssey ONE Archives at the USC Libraries Sci-fi, Magick, Queer LA: Sexual Science and the Imagi-Nation USC Arts Now Beyond the Human?: From the Metaphysical to the Physical — A Symposium on AI and the Arts In Focus: USC’s Art Schools Select option to display slide USC Kaufman School of Dance USC Roski School of Art and Design USC School of Architecture USC School of Cinematic Arts USC School of Dramatic Arts USC Thornton School of Music USC Kaufman School of Dance Established in 2012, the USC Kaufman School of Dance embodies the power of artistic innovation and dedication. Through its cutting-edge research and innovative dance education, the school cultivates a profound passion for dance while preparing the next generation of dancers, choreographers and leaders in the industry. By fostering a spirit of interdisciplinary learning and collaboration with renowned artists, the program propels its students toward success and empowers them to make a lasting impact on the dance world. Learn more USC Roski School of Art and Design The mission of USC Roski School of Art and Design is to enrich the dynamic research and creative communities of USC, Los Angeles and beyond. By providing an immersive studio curriculum rooted in historical and critical discourse, the USC Roski School aims to foster creativity and cultivate the analytical thinking skills necessary for artists and designers in the 21st century. Programs are designed to challenge students to illuminate, question and reshape how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. Faculty and students collaborate to explore innovative hybrid forms of art, design and critical studies, collaboratively envisioning and shaping the future. Learn more USC School of Architecture The USC School of Architecture is a dynamic hub dedicated to educating and motivating future architects to confront challenges and create design solutions that envision a brighter built environment. USC architecture faculty and alumni have pushed the limits to introduce groundbreaking practices for over a century. Located in Los Angeles and connected to worldwide concerns, USC architects and academics work with communities to gain understanding and become adept and bold professionals who generate innovative solutions. Learn more USC School of Cinematic Arts For almost a century, the USC School of Cinematic Arts has been a launching pad for visionary talent in cinema, television and new media. Since its founding in 1929, the school has combined cinematic theory with hands-on practice, preparing graduates for success in the entertainment industry. Our programs attract creative minds worldwide, providing a unique opportunity to explore and expand artistic potential in Los Angeles — the world’s entertainment capital. Taught by industry leaders and academic experts, the USC School of Cinematic Arts curriculum challenges students to refine their vision and contribute to a lasting artistic tradition. Learn more USC School of Dramatic Arts The USC School of Dramatic Arts believes in empowering artist-scholars to redefine the future of entertainment. Its dedicated faculty from the industry and exceptional production opportunities in Los Angeles equip our students with hands-on experience to forge successful careers. Our unwavering commitment to professional growth and programs such as the Institute for Theatre & Social Change cultivate empathetic and innovative storytellers prepared to confront the world’s obstacles. Learn more USC Thornton School of Music Established in 1884, the USC Thornton School of Music inspires musical excellence and collaboration, blending the rigorous training of a conservatory with the depth of a top research university. Our world-class faculty and diverse programs, including early music, popular music, orchestral performance, screen scoring, jazz, composition and the music industry, provide students with the tools to pursue their passions. USC Thornton opens doors to exceptional career-building opportunities, nurturing the next generation of musical talent. Learn more We’re Thinking B1G Sept. 1 marked the start of USC’s first football season as a member of the Big Ten Conference. It’s a change that reaches far beyond athletics, bringing new opportunities in the research lab, the classroom, the libraries and more. Our new video looks at what USC brings to the conference — and why this is going to be big. WATCH THE VIDEO Around the University View this post on Instagram A post shared by President Joe Biden (@potus) Celebrate Latinx/e Heritage Month at USC Latinx/e Heritage Month officially begins September 15. Help celebrate the month with your fellow Trojans through the many events available campus-wide through October 15. Visit: Latinx/e Heritage Month events at USC For more stories, playlists, additional events, and ways to get involved in the community, visit the Celebrating Latinx/e Heritage Month at USC on we-are.usc.edu. Check out: Celebrating Latinx/e Heritage Month at USC National Voter Registration Day Join the USC Center for the Political Future, along with various student and political organizations, to celebrate National Voter Registration Day at Associates Park on the USC campus. Enjoy free food and engage in learning about civic participation! National Voter Registration Day is a nonpartisan civic holiday dedicated to encouraging voter registration and promoting civic engagement. This event is open to all. Tuesday, Sept. 17, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. USC Event Calendar Thinking about USC? Explore Our Programs Visit USC University Park Campus (Map) 213-740-2311 Health Sciences Campus (Map) 323-442-2000 Tommy Cam Hecuba Cam About USC Office of the President Office of the Provost Policies and Core Documents Sustainability Economic Impact Patient Care USC Student Health Keck Medicine of USC Request an Appointment Medical Services and Programs Find a Provider Hospital and Clinic Locations Quick Links Campus Events Campus Safety Careers at USC Commitment to Change How to Access Campus Pressroom Privacy Notice Notice of Non-Discrimination Digital Accessibility Smoke-Free Policy Copyright © 2024 University of Southern Californiaenusen-US1731457861https://usc.edu

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