University of Southern California

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in American Popular Culture at the University of Southern California (USC) offers an in-depth exploration of how mass media, art, and cultural products influence perceptions of identity, gender, and ethnicity. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students develop critical and analytical skills necessary for understanding the complexities of American culture.

What you'll study

The program emphasizes critical analysis across various mediums, including literature, film, visual culture, music, and contemporary arts. Students complete a structured set of 36 courses, comprising 4 lower-division and 32 upper-division classes. The curriculum covers key themes such as:

• Critical approaches to popular culture
• Gender and ethnicity in American popular culture
• Popular culture in the arts, including visual and contemporary cultural debates

Sample coursework includes:

• Literature and Popular Culture
• Interpreting Popular Culture
• Visual and Popular Culture
• Narrative Forms in Literature and Film
• The Jazz Experience: Myths and Culture
• Contemporary Art and the Culture Wars

Students progress through foundational lower-division courses before advancing to specialized upper-division electives that align with their interests. Additionally, students should check for any potential capstone or culminating project requirements.

Entry requirements

While specific GRE/GMAT scores and GPA minimums are not outlined, USC typically adopts a holistic approach in evaluating applicants. Prospective students should verify the latest entry requirements for their intended term. English proficiency is essential, with the following minimum scores required:

• IELTS (Academic): minimum 7.0
• TOEFL iBT: minimum 100
• PTE Academic: minimum 68
• Duolingo English Test: minimum 130

It is advisable to confirm USC's current minimums for your application cycle.

Career prospects

Graduates of the American Popular Culture program possess a diverse skill set applicable to various fields. Potential career paths include roles in media, arts, education, and cultural analysis. The critical thinking and analytical skills honed throughout the program prepare students for a dynamic job market, enabling them to engage meaningfully with contemporary cultural discussions.