Undergraduate academic requirements
- Completion of high school/ secondary education
Degree type
Bachelor's
Key facts
- Duration4 years
- Delivery methodOn campus
- PaceFull-time
- Annual tuition fee75,384USD
- Start dateSep
- QS Ranking#153
Program overview
What the University of Southern California says about their program:
The Performance (Popular Music) (BM) program at the University of Southern California offers a comprehensive education in popular music. This degree focuses on developing students' skills in performance, composition, and music history within a vibrant artistic community.
The curriculum includes courses that cover various aspects of popular music, such as its history and cultural significance. Students engage in practical training and theoretical studies, preparing them for diverse opportunities in the music industry.
This program is designed for aspiring musicians and performers who wish to carve out a unique identity in the music world. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers in performance, composition, and other creative fields related to popular music.
Admission requirements
Postgraduate academic requirements
- Completion of a bachelor's degree (four or five years) in a suitable subject from a recognised university with a minimum grade of Second Class Honours Lower Division (2
2) or equivalent.
English proficiency
Postgraduate
- TOEFL
TOEFL: minimum total of 100, no less than 20 in each band.
English proficiency waivers
Documents required
- Passport
- Academic Transcripts
- Degree certificate or diploma
- Proof of English proficiency
- Statement of purpose or personal statement
- Recommendation letters
- Finance proof
- Translations
- Credential evaluations
Required grades
- Holistic
Grade Point Average (GPA)
3.77
All grade information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the for the latest information on required grades.
Additional requirements
Documents
- Submit official transcripts of all high school and college coursework completed
- Send external examination results and/or predictions (for example GCSE/IGCSE, predicted IB or A-levels)
- Submit a résumé listing musical, professional and academic experience, generally 1-2 pages in length
- Submit a repertoire list of works studied and performed
Essays and statements
- Complete the Common Application, including its essay and USC's short-answer questions
Recommendations
- One letter of recommendation is required from either your school counselor or a teacher from your school
- Optional additional letters of recommendation may be submitted through the Thornton SlideRoom portfolio (optional)
Creative and performance
- Submit prescreen video recordings of three to five selections in your area of emphasis, with the applicant clearly visible and audible throughout
- Voice applicants must include at least one up-tempo selection of no less than 125 BPM and one contemporary pop song written between 1965-1980
- Singer/songwriter applicants must submit only original material, with typed lyric sheets for all submitted compositions
- Drums applicants must also demonstrate stylistic versatility across blues shuffle, swing, Latin, funk and rock rhythm patterns
- Multi-instrumentalist applicants should submit up to 15 minutes of music across multiple instruments
- Include a one-minute verbal introduction within the prescreen video addressing your goals and aspirations in pursuing a career in music
- Submit a single-take, unedited 1-2 minute introductory video giving a brief personal introduction
- Submit a single-take, unedited video of no more than two minutes pitching your Final Project idea
- Prepare three to five selections for the live audition, which is typically 15-20 minutes in length
- Participate in a brief 3-5 minute assessment of musicality, which may include music theory, aural awareness and rhythmic understanding
Selection
- Complete the Thornton SlideRoom portfolio in addition to the USC undergraduate application
Fees
University of Southern California provides fee information that can help students understand how study costs may be structured or may vary across options. University of Southern California encourages students to review official funding and financial-support information to confirm what cost guidance or support may be available.
What is the cost of living near University of Southern California?
| Category | Cost (in United States Dollar) |
|---|---|
| Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre | $2,352 |
| Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre | $1,867 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse) | $139 |
| Internet (60 Mbps unlimited) | $66 |
| Mobile phone plan (data + calls) | $65 |
| Monthly public transport pass | $94 |
| Monthly grocery basket | $268 |
| Books and study supplies (monthly) | $56 |
| Coffee shop drink | $6 |
| Cinema or cultural event ticket | $18 |
| Gym membership | $77 |
Indicative monthly costs per person.
Data sourced from livingcost.org (Crowdsourced), numbeo.com (Crowdsourced) and financialaid.usc.edu (University published).
Visa requirements for the University of Southern California
Navigating the visa process is a crucial step in your study abroad journey. Make sure to seek guidance and support to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for your time at University of Southern California.