Undergraduate Programs

Intelligence and Cyber Operations

In what ways have nation-states and various actors utilized cyber technology for information gathering and the dissemination of misinformation? What measures can be implemented to safeguard against these threats? Dornsife College and the Viterbi School of Engineering have joined forces to establish a major that equips students to address these contemporary challenges and opportunities effectively.

Intelligence and Cyber Opeartions B.A.

International Relations

Prospective leaders in government, business, and law must comprehend the impact of global trends on their professional lives. The International Relations major equips you with essential conceptual tools for success in the dynamic future. Ideal for those aspiring to join the public policy or business sectors, it serves as a valuable foundation for advanced studies in foreign affairs, law, public administration, public policy, urban planning, political science, and business.

International Relations-Global Business

International Relations majors with a focus on Global Business will delve into the analytical aspects of state and international relations within the global economic landscape. This involves a blend of IR courses and foreign language study. Students can opt for a specialization in International Finance, Global Marketing, or Global Management by completing a specific sequence of courses in the Marshall School of Business. This major is well-suited for those seeking a comprehensive blend of international relations and business skills. Graduates will receive a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with a Global Business emphasis, preparing them for careers in the public or private sector, or for advanced studies in business, law, political economy, public policy, and international relations. Note that the diploma will indicate a BA in International Relations without specifying the emphasis.

International Relations – Global Business

International Relations and the Global Economy

The Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and the Global Economy (IRGE) provides students with comprehensive interdisciplinary training, seamlessly integrating the realms of international relations and economics. This program is designed to equip students with a robust skill set, preparing them for diverse career paths spanning foreign policy, international development, international finance, and political risk analysis. Beyond immediate career prospects, the major is an excellent choice for those contemplating advanced degrees in the social sciences. The multifaceted curriculum ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complex landscape of global affairs and contribute meaningfully to various sectors, both in practice and in further academic pursuits.

International Relations – Global Economy

Political Science

The POSC curriculum encompasses fundamental theories and concepts in political science, equipping majors with expertise in American Politics, Comparative Politics, Law and Public Policy, and Political Theory. Numerous POSC students enhance their USC studies by participating in study abroad programs, internships, and engaging in programs focused on state and federal government in Sacramento, CA, and Washington, D.C. Additionally, the department features the acclaimed Trial Advocacy Program, a multi-semester initiative that prepares participants for law school and other post-graduate pursuits. For our most exceptional undergraduate students, the selective Honors Program offers an enriching experience of intensive study and research.

Honors

The Honors Programs at POIR offer exceptionally motivated students the chance to collaborate closely with professors and other like-minded peers in advanced levels of critical thinking, analysis, research, writing, and communication. POIR boasts a variety of distinct honors programs meticulously crafted to nurture intellectual curiosity and offer a rich, diverse, and challenging educational experience.

ai generated gathering of nations like the U.N.

Guidance in Decision-Making

The academic advisors at POIR are ready to assist students in making informed decisions about their majors and course of study. Starting with Freshman Orientation in the summer, students meet with academic advisors each semester to devise a personalized plan of study for the next one to four years. Naturally, these plans may undergo revisions as students’ interests evolve and change.

POIR provides comprehensive support through individual mentoring, guest lectures, group workshops, and roundtables focusing on internships and job-related topics. Collaborating with student organizations, POIR offers peer-to-peer mentoring and career development programs. Additionally, POIR, the University Career Services Office, and Dornsife Career Pathways organize a variety of events, from career fairs to workshops covering resume writing, job search strategies, and interview preparation. Alumni panels provide students with the opportunity to interact with recent graduates and gain insights into diverse sectors where alumni have found employment related to their academic studies. Social sciences advisors in Dornsife Career Pathways also offer personalized career advising.

Our faculty members are deeply invested in tracking students’ progress and are available during office hours for questions related to coursework, as well as for informal conversations and mentoring. Further support and mentoring are available through the faculty fellowship adviser.

Through these avenues, we ensure that our students stay informed about research opportunities, meetings and conferences, internships, study abroad opportunities, competitive scholarships and fellowships, and other activities that not only uphold academic rigor but also provide practical applications relevant to their goals.