Architecture (PhD) at University of Southern California

Entry requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, a high GPA in the last 60 undergraduate units, and a competitive GRE verbal and quantitative score. Required materials: official transcripts, GRE scores, TOEFL or IELTS for international applicants whose first language is not English, a 1000-word essay on background, reasons for doctoral study and goals, resume, three letters of recommendation (at least two from previous instructors), application and nonrefundable fee, and work samples such as a portfolio or publications. A master's in architecture is not a prerequisite; students without one complete a core curriculum. Priority funding deadline December 1; fall admission only. Advanced Standing with a Master of Architecture or Master of Building Science requires a minimum of 36 to 40 units beyond that degree. USC Graduate School English proficiency for PhD applicants whose first language is not English (unless waived): TOEFL iBT 100 with at least 20 on each sub-score, IELTS Academic 7 with at least 6 on each band, or PTE 68 with at least 53 on each band; scores no older than 24 months, no super scores; individual departments may set higher minimums.