There are twenty one Learning Communities for you to choose from, each offering its own unique introduction to USC. In addition to our large-scale events like a trip to the theatre or a Dodgers game, each Learning Community will participate in activities that relate to the courses in their specific group. Allow yourself the flexibility to really explore with the Learning Community you choose; take a class on something foreign to you, explore a field you have always wondered about, or develop a blossoming interest.

Ethics and Society

Each of these Learning Communities takes a different approach to the same topic: societal constructions of right and wrong. What are the problems plaguing our society? What are the ethical implications of the choices make as a society? These courses may require you to ask yourself those types of questions and much more, perhaps leading you to find out just what rules you’re playing by. Oral and written communication skills are emphasized.

Pop Culture and Media

These three Learning Communities introduce you to various aspects of written and spoken communication as well as popular culture. If you are interested in how written and other forms of media influence culture, and how history has effected communication mediums throughout time, any of these Learning Communities will be a great fit for you! These groups will give you an excellent foundation in Communication, American Studies, Psychology and History.

Life, Law and Meaning

What gives life meaning?  How does the history of our country or our human existence help or hinder a meaningful future? What is the role mythology plays in creating life’s meaning today? The Learning Communities in this category face questions of epic proportions, and challenge you to think beyond the classroom and relate coursework to your own life. Oral and written communication skills are emphasized.

Race and Humanity

Human diversity has many dimensions, but what are the social and/or cultural consequences of living in a global world?  Learning communities nine and ten discuss the implications of living in a diverse society, and the effects of ancient civilizations on today’s individuals. Each course gives students the opportunity for personal reflection on topics through writing and discussion. 

Science and Medicine

Each of these Learning Communities is ideal for the pre-med student, or a student with a strong interest in natural sciences or a health-related field. Taking Biology and Chemistry together follows the traditional USC pre-health track, so pre-med members of these Learning Communities will be right on schedule! Furthermore, the Learning Community serves as an additional source of support for its members who face rigorous natural science coursework.

Exploring World Culture and Difference

Discussions relating to world culture and human history abound in these Learning Communities.  Professors in fields such as International Relations and Anthropology will challenge you to think critically about what aspects define different cultures and how historical components like music and literature relate to who we are today.

Movies, Myth and Machine

The Learning Communities in this category are designed for the student who likes to think critically about storytelling and life. Cinema 190, the gateway course for any Cinema major or minor, is a component of each Learning Community; however you don't have to plan on applying to the Cinema school to enjoy the coursework. The ability to be a film critic and an interest in learning is all that's required.

Deviance, Conflict, and Terror
(TRANSFER STUDENTS ONLY)

This is a category specially selected for transfer students to sample the many different topics of interest in the College of Letters, Arts & Sciences.  The course pairings are well-suited for students interested in studying current events or questions of societal importance.  These Learning Communities introduce students to past civilizations while opening a dialogue about what makes and affects society. Departments from fields as varied as Sociology and Kinesiology encourage you to explore the cultures and subcultures around you, ranging from the largest concepts of the origin of modern day man and how people interact to the most exact studies of  the human body and terrorism.