SPPD International Lab:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the topical focus of the lab?
The labs vary each year depending upon the client, the instructor, and the setting, among other considerations. Past labs have addressed diverse topics, such as water quality issues in rapidly growing urban areas, and the impact of social and economic change on the elderly.
Where are the labs held?
These labs may be held anywhere in the world. Past labs have been offered in China, Brazil and the United Kingdom.
Who is eligible to participate in the labs?
A distinctive feature of the lab is that it is intended as an integrative professional experience across the School of Policy, Planning, and Development, so students from any of SPPD’s graduate programs are welcome to participate.
What is the cost?
The base tuition cost is the same as any other 4-unit course. In addition, where applicable, participants are expected to cover the cost of airfare, lodging, and any other related travel/living expenses. There is also a non-refundable lab fee. In some cases, outside funding has been arranged to subsidize a portion of the costs; however, this varies and is on a case-by-case basis.
What prerequisites apply?
There are no prerequisites to sign up for a lab; however, because the labs are broken down into a 1-unit spring course plus the 3-unit lab during the summer, students are required to register for and complete the 1-unit spring portion.
What preparation is required beforehand?
During the 1-unit spring component of the labs, students meet with the instructor. These sessions prepare students for the lab logistically and substantively.
What skills do students develop and enhance in these labs?
Labs offer SPPD students an opportunity to study challenging management and policy problems in an international setting. Students conduct asset mapping and critical appraisal of the setting’s problems and associated issues. The team-oriented structure empowers students to share their knowledge with their peers while in the field. The diversity of team members’ backgrounds allows students to view the problems from perspectives other than their own fields of expertise.
Additionally, students learn to adapt classroom-taught solutions to address planning/development issues and/or formulate innovative solutions tailored to the project’s unique needs. Ultimately, this supports students in developing the competencies required to address the policy, planning, and development issues arising in this globalized era.
How can participants apply to their future careers what they've learned in the lab?
Past lab participants have shared that the labs provide real-world experience sought by employers. The intensive format of the lab and the breadth experience gained abroad prepares students for effectively responding to the unexpected and unfamiliar in their future careers. The International Labs serve as an excellent solution to the conundrum of gaining experience before employment.
Are these labs unique to USC?
A host of internationally-oriented programs are offered by USC and other peer academic institutions; however, few provide the hands-on consultation experience made available to students in the International Labs. Lab participants gain international exposure to unfamiliar cultural and societal norms, and develop the broader perspective on policy, planning, and development that is requisite in our increasingly global society.
Where can I go for more information?
If you are interested in learning more about the International Lab, visit the International Lab Web page. You can also e-mail sppdii@sppd.usc.edu with questions.