How does USC's acceptance rate vary by major?

I'm planning on applying to USC and I've been curious about whether their acceptance rates differ depending on the major you apply to. I've heard that some popular majors, like business or engineering, might be more competitive. Could someone shed some light on this? Does USC publish acceptance rates by major or provide any data on how selective different programs are? If anyone has info on this, especially for less common majors, I'd appreciate you sharing what you know!

As per general knowledge, Byzantine as it may seem, USC does not officially release acceptance rates by major. However, it's widely understood that certain programs can be more competitive due to their popularity or the limited number of spaces available.

For instance, programs such as Business and Cinematic Arts, due to their recognition and the large number of applicants, are widely believed to be more selective. On the other hand, programs that attract fewer applicants or are less well-known might be somewhat less competitive.

However, remember that all USC admissions are holistic, meaning that not only your choice of major but also other aspects - like your extracurricular involvement, essays, recommendation letters, and academic accomplishments - are essential parts of the admissions process.

While it's worth considering the relative selectivity of different programs, I'd encourage you to apply to the program that genuinely interests you and aligns with your career goals. Often, your passion for and commitment to your chosen field will shine through in your application, which can make a significant difference in how your application is perceived.

As for getting data or statistics, your best bet might be to reach out directly to the USC admissions office or the department you're interested in. They might be able to give you a better sense of the competitiveness of their program or any unique considerations they take into account during the admissions process. Unfortunately, as I mentioned earlier, USC doesn't publicly provide this kind of detailed breakdown.