A showcase of students’ final thesis from all degree programs within the School of Architecture. On display in Lower Rosendin.
USC School of Architecture
We shape visionary architects and designers through a rigorous, interdisciplinary education.
Situated in the dynamic urban fabric of Los Angeles, we offer an interdisciplinary, innovative environment where students engage with world-renowned faculty and industry leaders. Our commitment to sustainability and equity equips graduates to transform the built environment, impacting communities locally and globally.
Our PROGRAMS
Our interdisciplinary education fosters innovation and social responsibility through hands-on learning, multidisciplinary studies, and real-world projects. Students gain the skills to lead and transform the built environment.
Latest NEWS
5/04/2026FROM LEGOS TO LOS ANGELES: SHARLETTE SEK BUILDS HER PATH AT USC ARCHITECTURE
Originally from San Diego, California, Sharlette Sek is a third-year Bachelor of Architecture student at USC. Her interest in architecture began early, from building with LEGOs to creating cardboard structures.“Having been born and raised in Southern California, and knowing that I wanted to build my career here, I was motivated to transfer to USC to establish local connections, learn from professionals practicing in the region, and engage with a curriculum that reflects the architectural landscape of California,” says Sek.Did you find that it was difficult to transfer credits upon enrolling to USC?Since I transferred from one B.Arch program to another,...
5/01/2026VITTORIA DI PALMA HONORED WITH 2026 USC MENTORING AWARD
The USC School of Architecture is proud to announce that Vittoria Di Palma Ph.D., Associate Professor of Architectural History and Theory, is a recipient of the 2026 USC Mentoring Award for Faculty...
4/29/2026FACULTY LECTURE SERIES: AMY MURPHY EXPLORES URBANISM AND MEDIA IN HER LATEST BOOK
Amy Murphy loves architecture and film. With two degrees in each, she has spent much of her career considering how the disciplines intersect — though she rarely brings them together.“I’m very protective...
4/28/2026CLASS OF '26 SPOTLIGHT: KAIJI LUO
Kaiji Luo’s path to USC Architecture reflects a balance of sensory-driven design and technical development, shaped by his background in Spatial Experience Design and a desire for a more rigorous, critically engaged...
4/28/2026CLASS OF '26 SPOTLIGHT: MORGAN RICHMEIER
“I decided to do both a Master of Building Science and Master of Heritage Conservation so that I could approach these topics from varying perspectives – and because I am crazy.”After working...
Recent News
4/27/2026
ALEX MCDOWELL LECTURES ON WORLD BUILDING AS A NEW FRONTIER FOR ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN
4/24/2026KATY BARKAN AND HANS TURSACK JOIN USC SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE AS ASSISTANT PROFESSORS
4/23/2026SHADE ZONES AWARDS CEREMONY SHOWCASES STUDENT SOLUTIONS TO EXTREME HEAT IN LOS ANGELES
4/22/2026FACULTY LECTURE SERIES: JIMENEZ LAI IMAGINES OTHER WORLDS THROUGH STORYTELLING
4/20/2026ALI BANITABA BLENDS GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE WITH PERSONAL VISION
4/16/2026THINK FAST AND BUILD THINGS: HOW TO INNOVATE FOR SUSTAINABILITY
Upcoming EVENTS
5/12/2026XPO 2026
5/13/2026XPO Celebration Reception
5/15/2026School of Architecture Commencement Ceremony
6/03/202665th Annual USC Architectural Guild Awards
Past Events
5/02/2026
COMMUNITY EVENT SERIES: Renovation of Paul R. Williams’ Residence with John Arnold
4/29/2026Faculty Presentation and Exhibit: Amy Murphy
4/24/2026Alex McDowell
4/22/2026Shade LA Design Competition
4/21/2026Shade Zones Design Competition Winner Announcement
4/18/2026Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
Vibrant LIVES
Beyond design studios and other classes, there is much going on at the School, including student events, lectures, exhibitions, global travel opportunities and workshops. The School is a constant hive of activity and invention, and the closely knit architecture community progresses our ideals into the future built environment.
” When I chose Heritage Conservation at USC, I knew I wanted to continue studying the built environment in a way that highlights the importance of existing structures and the people who use and love them. “
— Sam Malnati ‘25
” I appreciated being gently pushed into making contacts through USC’s unmatched professional network. Architecture has opened up possibilities rather than narrowed them. “
— David Wright ‘25
” I have loved being a part of the immersive studio culture at USC; I find the conversations I’ve had in these spaces insightful, inspiring, and special. It’s so important to stay inspired by seeing other ways of making and thinking. ”
— Jack Somers ‘25
” USC’s faculty, and urban proximity allowed me to truly discover the city I grew up in through the sense of the built environment and sparked a love for design that has only gotten stronger every year. ”
— Justin Kaczender ‘25
” I chose USC Architecture because of its unique location—close to the ocean, forests, and deserts which gave me the chance to explore many kinds of landscapes. With the support and encouragement of my professors, I spent time traveling and observing these environments. Those experiences deepened my curiosity about the relationship between nature and architecture.”
— Ellykira Chai ‘25
See Our PROJECTS
Discover student and faculty work that showcases our rigorous thinking process, creativity, and commitment to social responsibility. Be inspired by how we approach and solve complex architectural challenges.
Read through our most recent Viewbook
Quick FACTS
SCHOOL
106
Years since the school’s founding in 1919
#1
Ranked by students as the best college for Architecture in America by NICHE 2025
4
Distinct disciplines: Architecture, Landscape Architecture + Urbanism, Building Science & Heritage Convservation
STUDENTS
677
Full-time Students | 32 countries | 34 US States
25%
Of students are first generation
76%
Receive scholarships or financial aid
22%
Are International students from 32 countries
FACULTY
100+
Faculty
6:1
Student to faculty ratio
+$2m
In research grants awarded to faculty in 2025-26
ALUMNI
7K
Alumni living in 49 countries & the US
30
Alumni & Guild Events throughout the year
2
Pritzker Prize Winners – Frank Gehry USC’54 and Thom Mayne USC’69
Download our Facts Sheet to explore our innovative programs, vibrant student culture, and the unparalleled opportunities awaiting you at our school.
View our 2025 XPO Program to see studios and over 80 leading experts, educators and scholars attending our year-end graduating students’ thesis presentations and exhibition.
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