University of Southern California (USC) vs Notre Dame

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between USC and Notre Dame?

  USC, located in Los Angeles, is a large, private research university known for its strong programs in film, communication, business, and engineering. It has a vibrant urban campus and a diverse student body. Notre Dame, situated in South Bend, Indiana, is a private Catholic research university renowned for its strong liberal arts, business, and law programs. It emphasizes a close-knit community and a strong focus on faith and service.

• Which school is larger, USC or Notre Dame?

  USC is significantly larger than Notre Dame. USC has a larger undergraduate and graduate student population, offering a wider range of academic programs and research opportunities.

• How do the academic reputations of USC and Notre Dame compare?

  Both USC and Notre Dame are highly regarded academic institutions. USC is particularly strong in fields like film, communication, and business, while Notre Dame excels in liberal arts, business ethics, and law. Both universities attract top students and faculty and are known for their research contributions.

• What is the campus environment like at USC versus Notre Dame?

  USC offers a dynamic urban campus experience in the heart of Los Angeles, with access to numerous cultural and professional opportunities. Notre Dame provides a more traditional, residential campus environment focused on community and tradition. The atmosphere at Notre Dame is often described as more tight-knit and faith-based.

• How do the costs of attending USC and Notre Dame compare?

  Both USC and Notre Dame are expensive private universities, and the cost of attendance is comparable. Tuition, fees, and living expenses are significant at both institutions. However, both universities offer financial aid and scholarships to eligible students.

• What are the strengths of USC's academic programs?

  USC is particularly strong in its film school (School of Cinematic Arts), communication programs (Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism), business school (Marshall School of Business), and engineering school (Viterbi School of Engineering). These programs are consistently ranked among the best in the country.

• What are the strengths of Notre Dame's academic programs?

  Notre Dame is renowned for its strong liberal arts programs, particularly in philosophy, theology, and history. Its business school (Mendoza College of Business) is highly regarded, especially for its focus on ethics. The law school is also consistently ranked among the top in the nation.

• How does the student life differ between USC and Notre Dame?

  USC's student life is characterized by its diverse student body, numerous clubs and organizations, and access to the vibrant cultural scene of Los Angeles. Notre Dame's student life is more focused on campus traditions, residential life, and a strong sense of community. There's a greater emphasis on faith-based activities and service at Notre Dame.

• What are the career opportunities like after graduating from USC versus Notre Dame?

  Both USC and Notre Dame graduates have excellent career prospects. USC's location in Los Angeles provides access to opportunities in the entertainment, technology, and business sectors. Notre Dame's strong alumni network and reputation open doors to careers in finance, law, consulting, and public service, particularly in the Midwest and East Coast.

• How do the athletic programs compare between USC and Notre Dame?

  Both USC and Notre Dame have storied athletic programs, particularly in football. USC is a member of the Pac-12 Conference (soon to be Big Ten) and has a strong tradition in various sports. Notre Dame is an independent in football (with an agreement to play a certain number of games against ACC teams) and a member of the ACC in other sports. Both universities have passionate fan bases and compete at the highest level of collegiate athletics.

• What is the role of faith and religion at USC and Notre Dame?

  While USC is not religiously affiliated, it welcomes students of all faiths and offers various religious organizations and resources. Notre Dame, as a Catholic university, integrates faith and values into its academic and campus life. Religious services, retreats, and service opportunities are readily available, and the Catholic intellectual tradition informs the curriculum.

• Which school is better for someone interested in the entertainment industry?

  USC is generally considered the better choice for students specifically interested in the entertainment industry. Its School of Cinematic Arts is world-renowned, and its location in Los Angeles provides unparalleled access to internships and networking opportunities in film, television, and related fields.

• Which school is better for someone interested in business ethics and social responsibility?

  While both schools offer strong business programs, Notre Dame's Mendoza College of Business is particularly well-regarded for its emphasis on business ethics and social responsibility. The university's Catholic mission informs its approach to business education, encouraging students to consider the ethical implications of their decisions.

• How do the alumni networks of USC and Notre Dame compare?

  Both USC and Notre Dame boast strong and active alumni networks. USC's alumni network is particularly strong in California and the entertainment industry, while Notre Dame's alumni network is known for its loyalty and widespread presence across various industries, especially in the Midwest and East Coast. Both networks provide valuable career support and networking opportunities for graduates.