Are you interested in studying theater at a higher educational level? Or maybe something similar, such as cinematic arts? How about somewhere close to home? This is the right place for you! The University of Southern California (USC) is a private research university located in Los Angeles, founded in 1880 and considered the oldest university in the state. USC is composed of a liberal arts school (the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences) along with 22 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. Something important to note about USC is that it is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), and is ranked as one of the top universities in the United States. All of this information can be found here, if you want further reference: www.usc.edu/.

One of the most popular schools at the University of Southern California is Cinematic Arts. According to their website, “Our interdisciplinary approach enables students, regardless of their chosen area of specialization, to take courses across our seven disciplines, without boundaries, in order to train fully-formed media makers, collaborators, and scholars situated to flourish in their chosen career path”. The school is divided into seven divisions, each having different focuses such as Animation & Digital Arts, Cinema & Media Studies, Film & Television Production, Interactive Media & Games, Media Arts & Practice, Writing for Screen & Television, and so much more. There is something for anyone who is interested in this field of study, so you’re sure to find what you are most passionate about.

According to US News, the acceptance rate for USC is around 13%, which is quite selective. Around half of the applicants had an SAT score between 1410 and 1540 or an ACT score between 32 and 35. Admission officials consider a student’s GPA to be highly important, as well as letters of recommendation, however high school rank is not considered. The nonrefundable application fee is $85.

Tuition at USC is around $65,000 which, compared to the national average cost of tuition of $41,000, it is a more expensive school. Keep in mind the cost of tuition and fees, as well as the cost of room and board, books and supplies, technology resources, student centers, transportation and personal expenses. But financial aid is available for students, which can come in the form of student grants, loans, and scholarships. You can also fill out the FAFSA form, which opens every October 1st, and is recommended by many experts, as every year, thousands of dollars are being unclaimed by students.

Some of the most notable alumni from USC include American actor Forest Whitaker, American astronaut and aeronautical engineer Neil Armstrong, American actor Tom Selleck, and American film director, producer, and screenwriter George Lucas.