The most important academic decision for students is to choose the right university. This decision can shape their educational and personal journey and provide the foundation for their future success. Are you thinking of studying in Los Angeles? University of South California (USC) and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) are the most sought-after institutes by students. Choosing the right university between these two institutes is even more difficult as both are prestigious and renowned. If you need clarification about whether to study at USC or UCLA, you are in the right place! We will help you understand what factors distinguish them and what can be the right choice for you.
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USC vs UCLA: Overview
Let us look at both universities before moving to which university to choose.
University of Southern California
The University of Southern California (USC), a top-tier private research university in Los Angeles, is renowned for its prestigious Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism and highly acclaimed School of Cinematic Arts. It has produced notable directors like George Lucas and Judd Apatow. Founded in 1880 by Robert Maclay Widney, USC boasts two main campuses: University Park and the Health Sciences Campus. Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), USC received an overall grade of A from Shiksha.
The university has produced more Academy and Emmy award-winning alumni than any other institution and counts 29 living billionaires among its graduates. Additionally, USC employs 10 Nobel Laureates and has conferred degrees on 11 Rhodes Scholars, 12 Marshall Scholars, 6 MacArthur Fellows, 181 Fulbright Scholars, and 1 Turing Award winner. Notable alumni include astronaut Neil Armstrong, actress America Ferrera, and actor John Wayne.
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116 |
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Student-to-Faculty Ratio |
9 to 1 |
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Acceptance Rate |
12.5% |
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Top Courses |
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services; Visual and Performing Arts; Social Sciences; Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs; Engineering; Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies; Computer and Information Sciences |
Watch our YouTube video to learn more about the University of Southern California.
University of California, Los Angeles
Founded in 1919, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a public land-grant research university in Los Angeles, California. It ranks consistently among the top 30 global universities, making it a top choice for international students. As the second establishment in the ten-campus University of California system, following UC Berkeley, UCLA initially offered two-year degree courses in letters and science before expanding to include third and fourth-year courses. Today, UCLA serves approximately 47,000 students and employs 4,100 faculty members across 227 campus buildings, with classes held in over 85 facilities.
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29 |
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Student-to-Faculty Ratio |
19 to 1 |
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Acceptance Rate |
9% |
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Top Courses |
Business, Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Health, Languages, Physical Sciences, Social Science, and Humanities |
USC vs UCLA: Factors to Consider
Deciding between USC and UCLA, two prestigious universities, involves considering several key factors. Here’s a breakdown to help you determine which institution better aligns with your goals and aspirations.
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Factors |
USC |
UCLA |
|---|---|---|
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Rankings |
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Subject Strength |
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Programs |
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PG Programs -140+ |
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Acceptance Rate |
12.5% |
9% |
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Exam Score |
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Campus Size |
229 acres |
419 acres |
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Academic Calendar |
Operates on a semester schedule |
Operates on a quarter-based schedule |
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Location |
The University of Southern California (USC) boasts a vibrant University Park campus within the Arts and Education Corridor, three miles from the bustling Downtown Los Angeles. Students immerse themselves in diverse parks and green spaces, complemented by a rich tapestry of architectural styles. The Health Sciences campus is northeastern of downtown, further enriching USC's presence. Moreover, USC extends its reach through satellite locations and programs across Southern California, as well as in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., offering a comprehensive educational experience tailored to various regions. |
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) occupies a prime location at the base of the Santa Monica mountains, on the northwestern side of Los Angeles. Renowned for its outstanding beauty, this campus blends modern and traditional architectural elements seamlessly, creating a harmonious "college in a garden" landscape. UCLA's presence enhances the surrounding neighborhoods, including Westwood, Santa Monica, Culver City, Venice, Silverlake, West L.A., and Brentwood. These vibrant communities thrive alongside the campus, fostering a dynamic and enriching environment for students and residents alike. |
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Admission Requirements |
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Tuition Fees |
Average Tuition Fees USD 23,100 (INR 19,32,350) |
Average Tuition Fees USD 31,949 (INR 26,72,590) |
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Top Recruiters |
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Median Salary |
USD 85,000 or INR 71,08,940 |
USD 1,00,000 or INR 83,63,460 |
Choosing Between USC vs UCLA: How to Decide
Choosing between USC and UCLA requires careful consideration of various factors.
- Determine your desired area of study and evaluate the relevant programs offered by each institution. Explore their rankings, class sizes, and student-faculty ratios to gauge the ideal academic environment.
- Assess the financial implications by examining tuition costs, fees, and financial aid opportunities at both universities. This analysis will help you understand the expenses involved and make an informed decision based on your budget.
- Consider the campus atmosphere and class sizes. Determine whether you prefer a more intimate or vibrant campus experience.
- Evaluate your qualifications against the admission criteria of each university. Review the academic profiles of admitted students, including high school GPAs and standardized test scores (if applicable). Align your application with the institution's mission, values, and desired qualities to increase your chances of acceptance.
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From the Desk of Yocket
USC and UCLA, located in Los Angeles, offer excellent programs tailored to different strengths. USC excels in Cinematic Arts and Communication, while UCLA shines in Theater, Film, and Dentistry. Choosing between them depends on individual preferences. Evaluate academic interests, costs, desired student body size, and how well you match their admission criteria. Carefully assess your goals and aspirations to determine the best fit, USC or UCLA, for your college journey in Los Angeles.
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