USC Average Class Size?

Hi all! I'm interested in attending the University of Southern California and was wondering about their average class sizes. If any current or former students could share their experiences, that'd be really helpful. Thanks!

Hi there! The University of Southern California (USC) has an undergraduate student-faculty ratio of 9:1. This means that for every nine students, there is one faculty member available to teach and guide them. However, class sizes can vary depending on the subject and the specific class, with some being quite smaller and more intimate.

In general, introductory or general education courses tend to have larger class sizes—sometimes over 100 students—since these classes are popular among students from various majors. As you progress in your academic career and move toward more advanced or major-specific courses, class sizes are likely to become smaller, sometimes even as low as 15-20 students. Smaller class sizes are beneficial for fostering closer relationships with faculty and peers, and they typically provide a more personalized learning experience.

Many students at USC have found that even in larger lecture-style classes, professors often make use of discussion sections or labs led by teaching assistants to provide a more individualized experience for students. In these smaller settings, students can ask questions, discuss material, and receive additional guidance from their teaching assistants.

Ultimately, your experience with class sizes at USC will vary depending on the classes you choose to take. It's essential to find a balance between larger, introductory courses and smaller, advanced courses to make the most of your academic experience.