The 10 Best Classes at USC

The University of Southern California (USC) is a world-class institution known for its top-notch business, film, and communications programs. From Salesforce’s founder Marc Benioff and Star Wars’ creator George Lucas down to The Nightline’s long-time host Ted Koppel, USC has produced so many industry leaders in different niches.

Classes at USC are truly in a league of its own—they’ve helped propel students to greater academic heights. So if you are an upcoming Trojan and want to explore your options for the best classes at USC, we provide a detailed list of the top 10 classes you can take while enrolled in the said school.

• The Best Classes at USC for All Students
• A Closer Look at General Education at USC
• Why Is Picking The Right Classes Crucial For College Success?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

The Best Classes at USC for All Students

USC’s focus on interdisciplinary studies lets you create a degree that blends different specializations tailored to your unique interests. With 23 schools covering a broad spectrum of academic and professional fields, USC offers one of the most diverse selections of programs to explore.

Here are the best classes at USC that most students can enroll in:

1. THTR 421: Public Speaking as Performance: A Course for Non-Actors

• Instructor: Stevie Johnson
• Eligibility: All students

Public speaking is the top fear for many Americans, but since it’s essential in so many situations, there’s no avoiding it. This public speaking class, led by master storyteller Stevie Johnson, will help you tackle that fear head-on. Johnson will teach you how to communicate with confidence, clarity, and charisma. This makes it one of the best classes at USC.

Throughout the semester, you’ll learn to deliver narrative, informational, and persuasive speeches, as well as craft a compelling one-minute elevator pitch. You’ll also pick up tips on creating strong opening statements and smooth transitions. The skills you gain in this class will help you confidently command any room.

2. CTCS 466 – Theatrical Film Symposium

• Instructor: Professor Leonard Maltin
• Eligibility: All students

CTCS-466, another one of the best classes at USC, is a four-unit elective open to all USC students, no matter their major. This class gives you a unique opportunity to connect directly with today’s top film directors, writers, producers, and actors. Throughout the semester, you’ll watch a variety of new film releases and take part in exclusive Q&A sessions with the creative minds behind them. The course is led by the esteemed film critic, Professor Leonard Maltin.

Recently featured films include Killers of the Flower Moon, Wish, The Holdovers, American Fiction, Bottoms, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Chevalier, and John Wick: Chapter 4. Past guest speakers have included Emma Seligman, Rian Johnson, Alexander Payne, Cord Jefferson, and many more!

3. JOUR 309 – Introduction to Online Media

• Instructor: Robert Hernandez
• Eligibility: Freshmen

“Introduction to Online Media” is a seven-to-eleven-week course designed for incoming freshmen, with only 18 spots available. This class focuses on the journalism and critical thinking skills needed for creating online news and information sites.

You’ll learn the essentials of building online store packages, including planning, reporting, editing, multimedia integration, website production, and visual presentation. The course also helps you develop a critical vocabulary and solid foundation in understanding what works well on the web and why.

For journalism majors, this knowledge is important for navigating the digital landscape that has transformed the field. Whether you’re working with video, audio, or text, you’ll be expected to produce work of publishable quality, meeting professional standards in presentation, editorial decisions, and grammar. Like with other best classes at USC, the work you create will be graded as if it were for a professional site.

4. ISE 460: Engineering Economy

• Eligibility: All students

Engineering Economy is all about making smart decisions when resources are limited and multiple options are on the table. This course prepares engineers with the tools to evaluate the costs and benefits of engineering investments, whether it’s for developing new products, advancing technology, or making capital purchases.

You’ll also learn how to choose the best designs, manage technologies throughout their lifecycle, and evaluate the financial aspects of new projects or ventures.

Key skills covered include:

• Understanding the time value of money and interest rates.
• Analyzing cash flow series using methods like present worth, annual equivalent worth, and internal rate of return.
• Creating cash flow sequences that account for factors like taxes, inflation, depreciation, and loan payments.
• Assessing alternatives and cash flows under varying risk conditions.

To take this course, you’ll need basic computational skills with Excel for spreadsheet modeling and upper-division standing in any engineering major, unlike the other best classes at USC. Other students may be admitted on a case-by-case basis.

5. SWMS 210: Social Analysis of Gender

• Eligibility: All students

The Social Analysis of Gender class deep dives into how gender and sexuality influence our lives. Through topics like Intersectionality, Gender Constructs, and Rape Culture, you’ll get to explore these important issues. The course pushes you to think critically, build empathy, and understand social justice better—skills that are valuable no matter your major.

It’s known for lively discussions, creative projects, and its direct connection to real-world issues. You’ll find yourself questioning societal norms and gaining a more informed view of the world.

Students who have taken the class encourage other students to take the Social Analysis of Gender course and challenge the idea that gender studies are “easy” or “useless.” They argue that understanding social justice, gender, and sexuality is important in every field—whether you’re in medicine, tech, or anything else—because it builds social awareness and empathy.

As one of the best classes at USC, this class helps you unlearn harmful beliefs and gain a deeper understanding of marginalized communities, which is key for both personal growth and being effective in your career.

6. FBE 206: The Power of Personal Finance

• Eligibility: All students

Simple but essential financial skills like budgeting, understanding the time value of money, and managing credit cards are key for navigating and surviving the “real world,” yet they aren’t typically taught in school. This personal finance class is a must for everyone, as it covers these basics and more. It is considered as one of the best classes at USC for personal finance.

Students learn to create personal balance sheets, assess home-buying strategies, and make informed decisions about refinancing and investing. The first half of the semester focuses on budgeting, while the second half dives into lesser-known but vital financial topics.

7. WRIT 150 – Writing and Critical Reasoning: Thematic Approaches

• Eligibility: All students

Writing 150 is the first course in the composition sequence that aims to provide first-year students with a solid introduction to college-level writing and reasoning. It’s designed to challenge you intellectually and help you apply academic concepts to real-world issues making it one of the best classes at USC.

The “Identity and Diversity” theme, like all Writing 150 courses, focuses on building the thinking and writing skills you’ll need for success in your general education and major courses. You’ll dive into critical reasoning through readings, discussions, and film viewings, with a midterm to test how well you’ve engaged with the material.

8. LING 115GW – Language and Society

• Instructor: Andrew Simpson
• Eligibility: All students

LING 115GW – Language and Society is one of the best classes at USC that offers a deeper look at how language, society, and culture influence one another. The class covers topics like the distinction between a language and a dialect and highlights how language can serve as a political tool.

It also explores code-switching, accents, and multilingualism, including the use of African American Vernacular English (AAVE). Another focus is on gendered speech patterns, such as “valley girl talk,” and how societal norms shape the perception of language features like “like,” up talk, and vocal fry.

Moreover, this course examines how language is used and understood across diverse social groups in both institutional and personal settings. It explores the connections between language practices and factors like gender, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity. The course also discusses how social structures and cultural values are reflected in language policies and practices.

9. BAEP 451: The Management of New Enterprises

• Eligibility: All students

This course gives you a solid intro to entrepreneurship that focuses on both the mindset and skills you’ll need. The course helps you spot opportunities, adapt to a changing market, and create value. It’s ideal for independent, self-motivated people who are comfortable with a bit of uncertainty.

Expect to get into team projects, fieldwork, and hands-on problem-solving, with plenty of out-of-class work to apply what you learn to real-world situations.

If you’re an entrepreneur or dreaming of becoming one, this course is a must. It takes you through everything from the early stages of a business to scaling it up, cementing its spot as one of the best classes at USC. You’ll explore key concepts like creating minimum viable products and finding angel investors.

Plus, USC’s Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies—one of the best in the country—brings in top entrepreneurs to share their knowledge and experiences. This class is a goldmine for anyone serious about entrepreneurship.

10. ITP 104: Web Publishing

• Eligibility: All students

Many students choose this class because it takes them from having no knowledge of DHTML or web publishing to creating a fully functional website. The course offers a complete overview of all aspects of web publishing, including graphic production, page layout, and industry standards.

You’ll learn the essential web publishing languages like HTML and CSS, understand how web pages and sites work, and gain a basic knowledge of graphic production, with a special focus on creating graphics specifically for the web. Additionally, the course provides a solid introduction to more advanced topics, such as programming and scripting.

A Closer Look At General Education at USC

Those who want to get into USC will need to complete the General Education Program, which includes six Core Literacy and two Global Perspectives requirements. These courses are designed to equip you with critical skills for thriving in a complex world.

While you can’t use transfer credits for Core Literacy requirements after enrolling at USC, they can count towards Global Perspectives. Transfer students must complete at least two Core Literacy courses on campus at Dornsife College.

Core Literacies

USC’s Core Literacies are divided into six categories, requiring eight courses in total. Students must take one course each in the Arts, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Quantitative Reasoning. Additionally, two courses are required in both Humanistic Inquiry and Social Analysis.

• GE-A: The Arts. Courses in this category help you explore the rich history and impact of creative arts. They focus on how art interacts with political, religious, and social contexts; these focus on teaching students to engage with and analyze various art forms. Some of the arts courses under general education are some of the best classes at USC.
• GE-B: Humanistic Inquiry. These courses encourage deep engagement with literature, language, and culture and help students understand different perspectives and to think critically about their place in history and society.
• GE-C: Social Analysis. Social sciences courses explore how human behavior is shaped by and shapes social, political, and economic structures. You learn to apply social science methods to understand complex societal issues.
• GE-D: Life Sciences. Courses in this category introduce you to biological and environmental sciences to emphasize scientific inquiry and the impact of science on society.
• GE-E: Physical Sciences. These courses focus on understanding natural phenomena through scientific methods, including hands-on lab or fieldwork to develop critical thinking and data analysis skills.
• GE-F: Quantitative Reasoning. Courses in this category enhance your ability to analyze data and evaluate mathematical, logical, or statistical arguments.

Global Perspectives

Global Perspectives courses help you become responsible global citizens, understanding diverse cultures and the power dynamics that affect people differently based on race, class, and gender. They are also some of the best classes at USC.

The requirement includes two courses: one focuses on contemporary global issues (GE-G), and the other explores historical contexts (GE-H).

These courses offer a deeper look into the complexities of global and local challenges. If a Global Perspectives course is approved for Core Literacy, it can count toward both requirements, but no other courses can be double-counted for General Education.

• GE-G: Citizenship in a Diverse World. Courses in this category help you understand citizenship and moral responsibility in a global society. They explore political, legal, ethical, and cultural issues within the U.S. and other cultures, with a great focus on social responsibility and the role of citizenship in different political and social contexts.
• GE-H: Traditions and Historical Foundations. These courses explore the historical and cultural roots of societies, and examine enduring traditions and ideas. They focus on significant literary, philosophical, and cultural practices, which will help you understand the historical transmission and impact of these traditions.

Additionally, all freshmen are expected to complete a General Education Seminar during their first year, which satisfies one Core Literacy requirement.

Why Is Picking The Right Classes Crucial For College Success?

Choosing the right classes in college is important for several reasons:

• Building a strong academic foundation. The best classes at USC deepen your understanding of your major. It also provides you with the essential knowledge to excel in your field. For instance, if you’re studying molecular biology, foundational classes like “Genetics” or “Cell Biology” are important to success in your chosen academic path.
• Networking opportunities. Some courses offer direct connections to industry professionals through guest lectures or workshops. Networking in these classes can lead to internships or job opportunities.
• Developing versatile skills. Diversifying your course load helps you build a broad skill set, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, which are highly valued in today’s job market. For example, combining a business major with a course in psychology can enhance your understanding of consumer behavior.
• Personal growth. College is also a time for self-discovery. Courses that challenge your beliefs or introduce you to new perspectives can be transformative. A philosophy class might challenge your worldview, while a cultural studies course could broaden your understanding of global issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is USC tuition?

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the undergraduate tuition at the University of Southern California (USC) is $68,237. When you factor in living expenses, books, and other costs, the total cost of attendance (COA) comes to approximately $90,453 for students living either on or off campus.​

Why is USC prestigious?

Yes, USC is prestigious. USC’s prestige stems from its strong academic programs, influential alumni network, and significant contributions to research and innovation. For instance, USC is home to the highly-ranked Marshall School of Business and the School of Cinematic Arts, both of which are consistently rated among the best in their fields. The university also boasts a robust research portfolio, with over $900 million in annual research expenditures, placing it among the top research universities globally.

What are USC’s most popular majors?

Some of USC’s most popular majors are Business Administration, Computer Science, Communication, Accounting, and Biology. These programs are a big draw for students because of their strong ties to the industry, modern curriculum, and USC’s prime location in Los Angeles. Being in LA means plenty of opportunities for internships and networking in these fields.

Is USC semester or quarter basis?

USC operates on a semester system, not a quarter basis. This means the academic year is divided into two main semesters, fall and spring, with an additional summer session available.

Takeaways

The University of Southern California has been a front-runner in the academe with some of its practical and up-to-date classes:

• The best classes at USC are typically those that everyone can enroll in and are timely and relevant in the world of work; examples of these classes are Public Speaking as Performance, Social Analysis of Gender, and The Power of Personal Finance.
• USC puts great emphasis on its general education by making sure that students go through some of the most world-of-work applicable classes.
• When enrolled at USC, you’ll need to complete the General Education Program, which includes six Core Literacy and two Global Perspectives requirements.
• Picking the right classes in college isn’t only beneficial in completing your college journey. These classes also help you prepare for a more demanding environment outside of the university.
• If you are still undecided about which best classes at USC to take, consult a college admissions consultant. They can help you pick out the classes that will work out best for you and your chosen track.