University of Southern California

SPPD International Specialization

"Professional practice is inexorably rooted in context. Thus, in a globalized era, our professions are themselves becoming internationalized."
— Dr. Eric Heikkila, Professor and Director of International Initiatives



SPPD Students at Cultural Park in Hong Kong

At SPPD, we understand the importance of training the next generation of professionals to be competitive in this global context. The International Specialization provides SPPD students with an opportunity to examine the role of professional practice in a broader social, cultural and economic framework. It challenges them to tailor their classroom knowledge and skills to meet the often unique issues that arise in foreign settings. Students who earn the International Specialization designation are better prepared for the professional demands of this globalized era.

Requirements

The International Specialization consists of 12 units.

  • Core: 4 units earned through participation in the SPPD International Laboratory (PPD 613ab; a=1 unit, b=3 units)
  • Electives: 8 units drawn from the following courses:
    • Comparative International Development (PPD 526) - 2 units
    • International Planning and Development Laboratory Workshop (PPD 532L) - 4 units
    • International Development Opportunities (RED 583) - 2 units
    • Comparative International Development Workshop (RED 585) - 4 units
    • Comparative Urbanization, Development and Inequality (PPD 615) - 4 units
    • International Development Administration (PPD 677) - 4 units
    • Processes of Change in Transitioning Societies (PPD 678) - 4 units
    • U.S. Immigration Policy (PPD 686) – 4 units

Qualification Process

  • An information session regarding the specialization and requirements is held in the Fall.
  • Students interested in pursuing the specialization should attend this session, as well as register their intent by e-mailing sppdii@usc.edu.
  • Once a student has submitted proper documentation to register intent, s/he must keep track of her/his progress towards the specialization distinction.
  • In the semester of their graduation, students submit proof of their satisfaction of the requirements.
  • Those students who meet all the requirements are provided with a document in recognition of their internationally-focused specialization.

For More Information
If you are interested in learning more about the International Specialization, please e-mail sppdii@usc.edu with questions.