University of Southern California Reviews of Master's in Liberal Arts

"Living expenses, especially rent, around school area is getting higher every year while stipend remains the same. Graduate students really struggle to find a place to live nearby campus (the safe zone). The school needs to rethink how to help students in humanities in getting jobs after graduation. Academia is no longer an option for all since job availability is very limited. USC is not among the big names(i.e. Georgetown, Stanford, U Penn) in humanities, and this is hard for USC students to compete for academic positions. It is helpful to have guidance for students to get jobs in industries."

"Pros: A great education with connections that will last a lifetime. Cons: Incredibly expensive with little to no aid for masters students."

"This program has mostly benefits. All of the faculty are working writers that can truly help students achieve their full academic potential and the classes are wonderful. The only drawbacks are the expense and the unsafe areas around campus."

"I love MPW mainly because of the freedom professors give us to work on our thesis projects over time. I never feel like I am given assignments just to do them. Every writing assignment has a specific purpose and I am happy to be a part of this dynamic community. Unfortunately, Dean Kay feels otherwise and plans to cut the program in Spring of 2016 for supposed financial reasons. I hope that he will come to recognize the validity and overall benefit that this program provides to the university. As a recent alum of USC and a current graduate student, I am deeply invested in this university and only want the best for my alma mater so that the next generation of students can flourish."

"USC is a fantastic school, you can't get around that -- specifically for my program at the School of Cinematic Arts, it is recognized as the number one program in the entire country. I'm honored to have been selected for such an extraordinary and wildly praised program. The network, the facilities, the career support and access to successful and working artists is the biggest pro of attending a USC School of Cinematic Arts program. It's a way to enter the industry but in a safety net, spend two years fine-tuning your writing and making connections and hopefully be on your way to your "Big Shot." Like any school, though, it has its pros and cons. One of the things to know about USC is that it isn't in the best neighborhood. The campus always feel safe and welcoming, but it's important to be careful and thoughtful about traveling at night alone. Los Angeles is of course an expensive city to live in and USC is located there so of course the cost of living is a bit higher than at other schools, but I believe for the value of the education you get and the kind of people you have the opportunity to work with, it's all worth it! Apply, apply, APPLY for scholarships, grants and fellowships and once you get past your first year, there are a ton of other fellowships that the school automatically considers you for based on your talents and strengths (demonstrated in your first year) and you have the opportunity to get assistantships and research-ships that include living stipends and tuition relief."

"For anyone who has ever had a dream of writing a novel, screenplay, memoir-you name it!- USC's Master's of Professional Writing is THE place to be. Not only do you have the opportunity to engage in workshop of your own pieces, but you learn valuable business and networking techniques that will forever benefit you as a writer"

"The graduate program is not only competitive but very challenging. It is preparing me for a future in my field and setting me up for the highest level of success. The use of technology is exceptional and the level of support is outstanding. The requirements and expectations are high in order for all students to succeed. The program is very expensive but the reputation of the school is extremely good."

"The MSW@USC is an excellent program, as it allows students from all over the nation to be a part of a top-tier Master's of Social Work program without leaving home. The technology takes distance learning to a whole new level! Students interact with their classmates and professors each week in a virtual classroom that offers the semblance of normal campus life. The program is challenging, helping students grow immensely in their work ethic and knowledge of the material."

"This is not a glamorous part of LA, so it takes some getting used to. However, the faculty is unabashedly available and excited to help students succeed in their work."

"The environment of my department is excellent."