USC and the Military
Training our nation’s warriors: Advancing defense, supporting veterans
For more than a century, the University of Southern California has stood alongside the U.S. military, training future leaders, advancing defense research and supporting veterans and their families. Ranked among the nation’s top 10 universities for veterans, USC continues to shape national security and strengthen communities both at home and abroad.
A Century of Service to the Armed Forces
USC has supported the military since 1914, commissioning more than 5,000 officers through one of the nation’s longest-running ROTC programs. As an early partner of the U.S. Space Force, USC continues to lead in preparing officers who serve with distinction. Today, more than 1,400 students use VA benefits annually, a reflection of USC’s enduring commitment to those who serve
5,000+
Since 1914, USC has commissioned more than 5,000 ROTC officers, continuing a proud legacy of preparing leaders for service in the U.S. Armed Forces.
1,400+
Each year, more than 1,400 USC students use VA education benefits, reflecting the university’s strong commitment to veterans, service members, and their families.
Top 10
USC consistently ranks among the Best Colleges for Veterans in U.S. News & World Report, underscoring its commitment to student veterans’ success.
National Defense Research and Innovation
From missile defense to artificial intelligence, USC research drives advancements that safeguard the nation. The Institute for Creative Technologies—one of only 15 Department of Defense University Affiliated Research Centers—uses virtual reality, AI and simulation to prepare troops for real-world challenges. USC researchers also lead in cybersecurity, machine learning and space engineering, advancing knowledge that protects U.S. interests on Earth and in orbit.
Celebrating 25 years of USC’s Institute for Creative Technologies
USC Price launches Center on National Defense and Public Safety
Improving Software Development for Space Defense
“USC is providing veterans with the tools they need to become productive and successful members of the community.”
Education and Career Pathways for Veterans
USC offers specialized programs that help veterans excel in civilian and defense careers. The MBA for Veterans, SHIELD Executive Program in Global Space and Deterrence, and USC’s first-of-its-kind social work degree focused on military populations all prepare leaders to thrive beyond service. USC also remains one of few U.S. university outside the academies to offer astronautical engineering degrees.
Reserve Officer’s Training Corps Programs (ROTC)
The legacy of success among Trojan ROTC graduates is unmatched, with more than 200 USC alumni rising to the ranks of general officer or senior civilian leadership within the Department of Defense. Guided by dedicated faculty and staff, USC’s elite ROTC programs prepare students for commissions in the U.S. Air Force, Space Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps.
Comprehensive Support for Veterans and Families
USC offers comprehensive support for veterans and their families. The university provides unlimited Yellow Ribbon scholarships to eligible undergraduates, helping many graduate debt-free. Graduate-level awards vary by program and are matched annually by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Veteran Success Program also offers community-building, academic support and tailored housing, financial and career resources to ease the transition to campus life.
Advancing Military and Veteran Success at USC
From top-ranked veteran benefits to defense research and ROTC leadership, USC drives innovation and opportunity for the military and veteran community.
How the Army uses USC-developed AI for education
With a USC Institute for Creative Technologies tool, soldiers use AI not to write their essays for them, but to show them how to become better writers.
New program welcomes USC transfer student veterans
USC welcomed a new group of transfer student military students with its inaugural Veterans Transfer Students Welcome.
Gala brings together generations of USC veterans, service members and ROTC students
The 16th annual evening of celebration, tributes and tradition features mutual respect and admiration.
Trailblazer and alumna Stayce Harris named to USC Board of Trustees
Harris joins the board after decades as an active alumna and leader in the military, aerospace and aviation.
USC veterans share their stories, express gratitude for opportunity to serve
Students, faculty, staff and community members attend campus event celebrating military service.
USC Price, Viterbi schools prepare military experts to coordinate policy and technology
As the war in Ukraine underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach to defense, the Executive Global Space and Defense Program couldn’t be more timely.
Q&A with Gen. Paul Nakasone, National Security Agency director and USC alumnus
The nation’s top military cyber official on Thursday toured some of his old stomping grounds during a visit with students, faculty and leadership.
Trojan veteran brings expertise in mental health to those who served
Social work alum and Afghanistan veteran Dylan Moore says his real-world experience informs his role as an on-campus therapist.
After serving their country, Trojan veterans band together to embrace life at USC
The USC Veterans Resource Center serves as a campus anchor for studying, personal development and camaraderie.
New center aims to better inform federal, state and local policy on veterans and military families
USC social work professor will lead the RAND-USC Epstein Family Foundation Center for Veterans Policy Research
