Thompson Rivers University Vs University of Southern California: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare Thompson Rivers University Vs University of Southern California based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze Thompson Rivers University Vs University of Southern California on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare Thompson Rivers University Vs University of Southern California based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze Thompson Rivers University Vs University of Southern California on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
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Thompson Rivers University
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Thompson University V/s University of Southern CaliforniaStudent Ratings
Rating of colleges
4.1/5
3.4 Internships
4.1 Part time work
3.9 Post study jobs
4.2 Quality of faculty
4.5 Student Life
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3.6/5
3.4 Internships
3.5 Part time work
3.5 Post study jobs
4.4 Quality of faculty
4.3 Student Life
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Thompson University V/s University of Southern CaliforniaCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
Thompson University V/s University of Southern California BBA
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Thompson University V/s University of Southern California MS
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Thompson University V/s University of Southern California PG Diploma
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Thompson University V/s University of Southern California B.E. / B.Tech
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Thompson University V/s University of Southern California B.Sc.
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Other courses
- UG Diploma (22 courses)
- B.A. (10 courses)
- MBA/PGDM (1 course)
- MEng (1 course)
- UG certificate (14 courses)
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- B.A. (48 courses)
- MBA/PGDM (4 courses)
- LL.M. (7 courses)
- BDS (1 course)
- M.A. (14 courses)
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Thompson University V/s University of Southern CaliforniaCollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1970
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
250 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+2 More
Established Year
1880
Number of Campus
2
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
229 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+3 More
Established Year
-/-
Number of Campus
-/-
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
-/-
Accepted Exams
-/-
Thompson University V/s University of Southern CaliforniaCampus Comparison
Campus videos & images
Thompson Rivers University- A glance
About TRU
TRU Campus tour
Student Housing at TRU
Study Abroad at Thompson Rivers University
Supplemental Learning at Thompson Rivers Universit
Main Campus
Around Campus
Arts & Education Building
House of Learning
Brown Family House of Learning
Campus Activity Centre
Around Campus
International Building
TRU Residence & Conference Centre
Library
Student Services
Tournament Capital Centre
Accommodation
Accommodation Loft Suite
Student Housing Common Area
Accommodation Fitness Centre
Classroom- Faculty of Law
TRU Conference Centre
Campus Activity Centre
TRU Aerial View#1. University Park Campus
#1. University Park Campus
#2. Health Sciences Campus
USC Village: A Visual Tour
USC-India: Partner The Future
Aerial View
Aerial View
USC campus
USC Great Lawn
USC Cromwell Field
Classroom
Classroom
McCarthy Honors College
USC Village Dinning Hall
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Country Facts
Study in Canada
Canadian universities offer globally respected qualifications
Access to abundant research programs and a broad range of disciplines
Stringent safety measures ensure a secure campus atmosphere.
Campus services aid students, promoting well-being and academic success.
Stunning landscapes offer a peaceful and picturesque to daily life.
Robust economy provides diverse employment prospects for students.
Study in USA
Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
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Student’s views on campus
Views on Thompson University campus
O
Orkopriya Chowdhury 
Bachelor of Business Administration - Batch of 2025
4.3
Friendly and well-established public university.
Tips: Students should know that being on campus is the best way to get to know about the University as well as the cultural gap and the environment. Campus like Thompson River University East Village and McGill Residence are among the best. Make sure you are paced with clothes as they are definitely cheaper than the North American market.
Likes (Permanent Immigration): The immigration system involves two options such as Express Entry and BC PNP which is a provincial nomination. Those who came after 12th won't qualify for the Express entry option as you need at least an undergraduate degree to apply for permanent residence.
Dislikes (Quality of faculty): Most of the business faculty is top notch but the accounting department lacks a lot of quality. My major is accounting for the third year. The faculty is not the best as compared to the business department.
But I do recommend accounting in general as there are many job options in Kamloops itself.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1015
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 65000

Kunwar Bhanu Prakash Verma 
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Marketing - Batch of 2024
4.4
Friendly campus & multicultural college.
Tips: I prepared few items as a PDF before coming Kamloops. The resume should be according to the Canadian market. It will give students a head up to find part-time positions. - You can work as many hours as you want if you work on campus.
Likes (Safety): Close proximity to law enforcement offices. Panic/Alarm system near campus for emergencies. Public transportation till late night (1 Am in Summer/ 1130 PM winters). Campus services have been improved over the last 2 years with options like Kami Cabs, Ride and Yellow Cabs. The services can be pre-booked.
Dislikes (Internships): Students have the option for Co-op in which you will first pay for the course after that once they get the job offer they will be paying again. A platform will be provided to look for internships and specific jobs. -The co-op course teaches you about mock interviews, cover letters and resume building with job fairs all according to the Canadian market.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1015
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 23475
S
Sakshi Gaikwad 
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Human Resource Management - Batch of 2025
3.5
Serene surroundings, Home away from home.
Tips: If you love small towns you should choose this place.
Everyone knows everyone which sometimes is annoying. There is rarely anything to do.
However, it is a beautiful place.
Personally, I love big cities as it might give you more exposure but if you want peace and good scenic beauty Kamloops is a beautiful place.
Likes (Safety): Safety depends on the preferred location one stays.
According to me, it is safe as I stay in on-campus residence.
But if you are mature to take care of yourself you are good. I faced a safety issue with one of my roommates when I stayed off campus which made me change my accommodation to on campus.
Dislikes (Internships): There are campus job fairs.
There is very limited job opportunities in my domain.
So, I may consider relocating after my studies.
It has very less jobs in Human resources which is what I have observed so far. However if one is smart enough they can land a decent job.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1100
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
A
Azeem Khan 
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Applied Data Science - Batch of 2025
3.7
I personally like town life that is the reason I chose this college.
Tips: One should be prepared to adapt to everything. You are coming here to become successful. You have to bring tremendous change in your personality and lifestyle to achieve it. The weather is not that bad here as compared to other cities of Canada. Small town-like vibe with friendly neighbours.
Likes (Part time work): I rated Part time job 5 because I got the job within 10 days. Moreover, almost every International student I met in Kamloops has a job so that won't be an issue for anyone who is planning to come to TRU. Minimum wage in Kamloops (British Columbia ) is the highest among all the provinces in Canada.
Dislikes (Public transportation): We only have bus services as our primary mode of transportation. While it is cost effective it lacks reliability. Depending on the bus alone to get you to your destination in time is a bit challenging. To ensure punctuality it is advisable to take at least 30 minds of buffer. It gets worse in winter due to snowfall and blocked roads.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 650
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 50650

Abdullah Saleem 
Master of Business Administration - Batch of 2023
3.5
Not the best, nor the worst. Beautiful small city, fun-filled university experience.
Tips: TRU isn't a prestigious university, it is however a public university which is comparatively less expensive when compared to others, hence why most people decide to join TRU for the "University" and student life which you might not get in a college. Securing a part-time job may be challenging at first, will have to be patient and give it some time as competition is getting fierce. More and more students are coming to Kamloops with not many new opportunities arising, the same goes with accommodation. Housing rates keep rising. My gentle advice would be; don't come with high expectations, and you won't be disappointed.
Likes (Safety): So far I haven't felt threatened by anyone or any situation. However, there are safety concerns with regard to homeless individuals and so-called "junkies" in certain parts of the city. But they are harmless until and unless teased or disturbed.
Dislikes (Internships): Many programs in TRU do not offer internships. Only Bachelor programs have an option of doing an internship, more commonly known as Co-op. Course loads are quiet hectic for Masters students, whereas PBD courses are rather easier to pass. Course structures are well-designed and the professors are great, with excellent experience and knowledge.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1325
Prepping time for classes12 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
A
Anu khandelwal 
Master of Business Administration - Batch of 2024
5
Life at Thompson Rivers University was good.
Tips: It's a great place to study and the university culture is very warm. The faculties are very helpful and highly professional in their fields. They know the current trends of the market and on top of it the university offers a lot of opportunities to get real-life work experiences and the events are always helpful to learn the new culture.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 3500
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 85225
A
Abhishake Goyal 
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Accounting - Batch of 2023
4.3
Good Accounting program of Thompson Rivers University
Tips: There are lot of co-op opportunities to look out for. Take part in different clubs and activities. Be active in looking for Post graduation work and start early. The faculty are very knowledgeable and helpful. All in all, I would say it was a very wonderful learning experience.
Likes (Student Life): There are various events for students to take part in as well as many opportunities to get involved with communities. The workload was manageable for me. There are certain events organized by the Indian community on festivals like Diwali and Holi. University had one event name I-days which was a lot of fun and a cultural mix where you are able to see culture of different places.
Dislikes (Indian Food): No Indian food is good in Canada. Most people cook for themselves in Canada. The current inflation has caused prices to skyrocket so eating out once a month is all that was possible for me. There is one good restaurant that I recommend and that would be Moxies.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 2000
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 55000
N
Nishant Shah 
Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business - Batch of 2022
4.2
An amazing academic experience at Thomson River University
Tips: Well, as per my experience, students should prepare themselves for a cultural shift when they are coming to study at Thomson River University. But they will surely experience a supportive enriching and academic experience with some benevolent opportunities for scholarship, personal growth, and community involvement.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 6809
Prepping time for classes23 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 72101
A
Anish George 
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Finance - Batch of 2021
3.7
A decent university with decent faculty and tons of activities and stuff to do on campus.
Tips: Lots of assignments and time management skills are required. Less rote learning and more understanding and developing social skills by participating in co-curricular activities. It's still a fairly new University and it would be unfair to compare it to the UBCs or the SFUs but TRU is growing and becoming stronger with each passing day.
Likes (Value for money): Compared to colleges and other universities across Canada, it gives you a decent university experience at a reasonable price. You can participate in co-op work terms, join clubs, volunteer, etc. All in all a well-rounded and holistic experience. Would recommend TRU.
Dislikes (Public transportation): Not very frequent public transit and all routes are not covered equally. Especially during winter buses can be delayed or outright cancelled. If you are staying far away from TRU it might be a challenge commuting without a vehicle. During the summers or non-snowy days, it is reasonably easy to commute.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1809
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 41250
N
Nidhi Vyas 
Master of Business Administration - Batch of 2024
5
Best University a student can ask for MBA.
Tips: University has high standards. One should have effective leadership qualities, and know about curriculum design. There is a professional environment and the best faculties are helping students. There are volunteers to help, and learned faculties on campus surrounded by natural beauty and the finest infrastructure. College is value for money. Special attention is provided to students not performing well.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1727
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
M
Mohammed Junaid 
Bachelor of Business Administration in Supply Chain Management - Batch of 2023
4.7
Peaceful college in small city.
Tips: Since the city is pretty small and not much is happening, some people might not like it here compared to metro cities. But if you looking for a peaceful and healthy place to reside, study and chill with your buddies on a regular basis, this would be the right place and school to join in.
Likes (Value for money): TRU is one of the most popular universities among the international students and has the one best School of Business and Economics in the whole of British Columbia. The tuition is pretty reasonable compared to other schools in BC and has many benefits from the city municipality which is included in the tuition.
Dislikes (Indian Food): Since the city of Kamloops is a small dev city with small population, doesn’t have much variety of cuisines up here. But it’s growing on a regular basis with more number of international students coming in and graduating and so eventually setting up their own businesses.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 1543
Prepping time for classes8 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 55904
A
Ayush Sharma 
Master of Business Administration - Batch of 2020
3.3
Not a lot of internship opportunities.
Tips: It is in the interior of BC, the university is gradually growing and making its name in the region. It could get boring if you don’t have a good social circle as the city sleeps from 8-9 pm. Faculty is good if you ask questions and show interest in the discussions.
Likes (Permanent Immigration): Kamloops is a small town with good job opportunities plus living expenses are okay. Being in the interior gives a better chance at getting PR soon. Canada is welcoming new students/immigrants right now and it is a very good opportunity to grab if you are planning to settle here.
Dislikes (Internships): The university doesn’t provide students with internship opportunities in our course like the rest of the universities/colleges. It does have some opportunities for Co-Op but they are not included for the master's students. So, students have to do a lot of networking themselves.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 3564
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD 45106
H
Harminder Singh 
Master of Business Administration - Batch of 2023
3.6
Good but not the best. Very less chances for visa refusal.
Tips: It is a good university but not the best. If you have slightly low grades in your graduation and you want to pursue MBA from a public university then this is the right place. The minimum passing grades are 70% for each subject so be prepared for that, although the study pattern is not too hard. Most importantly, choose your instructor wisely. There are ratings, so you can check those before enrolling yourself in a course. The type of instructor matters a lot.
Likes (Safety): If I compare it with my home country, I think the city is safe. I do not have my own conveyance right now. I am using public transport and I am amazed that the pedestrians are given priority here. I have not come across any incident of fight so far. Overall, it is safe.
Dislikes (Internships): I am pursuing MBA and I am shocked to know that the university is not providing co-op for MBA while it is available for BBA and post-bacc programmes. Also, the university is less concerned about internships, as per my experience and reviews from the seniors.
Total Monthly ExpenseCAD 932
Prepping time for classes16 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryCAD
Views on University of Southern California campus
A
Anonymous
M.A in Occupational Therapy - Batch of 2026
Offered by University of Southern California
4
It has been an amazing and very promising experience.
Tips: The campus is beautiful, the classes are interesting, and the university has some courses that allow you to re-attempt tests where you haven't done your best. You will be required to stay up-to-date with a lot of extensive background reading, which can affect your work-life balance. Otherwise, it is a very open and friendly space to learn. The faculty are easily accessible so you can reach out to them. Overall, I am quite satisfied with the course and country.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2400
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 73650
A
Abhinav Gupta 
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Southern California
3.5
Opportunity for those who seek it.
Tips: Before joining this college, students should be ready to take on coursework as soon as they start. Competition is tough because there is a big batch size. You will need to fight for your place. Make sure to learn how to cook because eating out is going to be expensive. Stop covering everything to the Dollar because you won't be able to survive.
Likes (Student Life): Student life is great because the college is very supportive. There are a lot of sports and advanced facilities. The campus has good food and a good vibe. LA as a city is amazing, there is so much to do. There is a little for everyone, city life, beaches, mountains, desert, culture, food and so much more.
Dislikes (Safety): LA as a city is very unsafe. There are homeless people everywhere on the street and even in public transport who come close to you and even try to engage unless you are careful. Travelling alone at night is very difficult and scary. There are crimes happening around every day.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1050
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 110000
A
Anonymous
M.S. in Spatial Economics and Data Analysis - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Southern California
3.8
Grateful for the experience and lesson.
Tips: The campus is very friendly and welcoming and the student body is diverse so you'll be sure to fit in. The infrastructure is well made and living in California is great for Indians. If there is something to be cautious about, it is the amount of crime happening around the university.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 4575
Prepping time for classes29 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 89075
G
Ganpati Goel 
MS in Engineering Management (MSEMT) - Batch of 2023
Offered by University of Southern California
4.1
The University is awesome, there is a lot of competition, sports, extracurriculars and party house.
Tips: Complete assignments on time, make sure to clear all subjects, and join extracurriculars like Table tennis, triathlon club and cycling etc., if you are not into all of this then don't bother coming to USC and save some money. USC is not merely for education but for the holistic development of self if you have missed that in Indian colleges.
Likes (Public transportation): I personally learnt skateboarding and life was so much easier than to walk the whole campus. So skateboarding + public transport I could travel anywhere in the city. USC also has unlimited free Lyft in 2 mile radius around the campus from 6 pm to 2 am. You can get the tap card at a discount for college students.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): In USA:
1. Post study jobs matter on the following:
a. Location of University. If you have done college from East Cost you will get a company call back from East Cost majorly and vice versa- the name of the college doesn't matter as much.
b. Experience: Your own experience matters. People with prior experience are more likely to secure jobs.
c. On campus companies: Very few companies that come on campus sponsor, so it is pretty much useless.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85000
A
Agraj Khare 
Master of Science in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
3.9
This place has a lot to offer. Student life is happening.
Tips: One should definitely do their due diligence with which course they plan on taking UPAT USC. It is definitely a great leap and transition coming to a new country and it will take some time to get yourself adjusted in the system. Getting habitual of doing everything on your own can also prove to be challenging. With time you will definitely find an on-campus job to support your living expenses and things will improve for the better. The key is to remain patient and stay consistent. USC as a university has a lot to offer, so don't be afraid to grab onto opportunities and get as involved as you can! Make the most of it and have a great time. Striking a balance between fun and work is equally important.
Likes (Student Life): There is always something going around in campus. The campus is forever hustling and bustling. I honestly feel the people you'll meet at USC will be great, I am sure there are exceptions but the student population is diverse and has a lot to offer. There are ample events conducted by AIS (Association of Indian Students) so you don't miss your key festivals away from home.
Dislikes (Safety): Safety is definitely a concern in Downtown Los Angeles. Even though USC makes more than sufficient efforts to keep its students safe, you will come across instances of crime a little too frequently for comfort. But I still feel safety is a matter of personal choices as well. So always make sure you're cautious and taking the right precautions.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1425
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
3.1
Great but also expensive
Tips: As someone who is from Mumbai, moving to LA feels like a huge change. The city is huge but it is difficult to explore without a car. The people here are welcoming, and there are a lot of international students, especially from India. But it is expensive without a scholarship, and USC discontinued the Honours Scholarship programme so it is more difficult to fund your education now.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The faculty at USC is really good. In the courses that I took, the faculty had a thorough understanding of all the topics and were super friendly and welcoming during their office hours. Even if you aren't able to reach the professors, there are TAs who are also really helpful most of the time.
Dislikes (Value for money): Although USC is a good school, it is quite expensive. There are a lot of students in some courses, and for those courses, the quality drops. I believe other universities that are less expensive have the same level of courses and an equal number of opportunities for internship and full-time jobs.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1200
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 100025
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
4.2
Go with an open-mind to experience the best.
Tips: Very satisfied with my university, course and country. The first 2 months are the hardest but after that, you settle in and it only gets better. Do not create any opinions based on what seniors say, Experience everything and form your own opinions. Your masters experience depends on how you make it. Do not have preconceived notions.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1800
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
3.8
No complaints, great network for better opportunities.
Tips: Apply early for a chance at a scholarship. Culture is very open-minded but there are ethnic and religious events happening year-round. Extremely satisfied with my course, nothing to complain about. I am currently specializing in ML maybe a bit more practical courses could have been better.
Likes (Student Life): Great fun, lot of people to network with, strong alumni network. This creates a strong bond between people. I really liked the atmosphere which was present at the place.
It is very open minded, people can be what they want, express themselves. And also you can still connected to your culture and tradition through various clubs
Dislikes (Internships): The job market was bad in 2023, thus finding an internship was bad. Otherwise, it has been fine. USC has a decent track record of students landing good internships. But 2023 was such a year that only 700 new tech jobs was created. That caused problems mainly.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1225
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 100750
O
OMKAR VERMA 
Master of Science in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
3.2
Expensive college, stressful course
Tips: You will have to be mentally strong before coming to the US, as it gets stressful at times. You have to do all things yourself like cooking, on-campus job, studies, finding full time employment. My course in VLSI is very stressful. It is fairly difficult and keeps you on your toes for at least 2 semesters. At the time of writing this review, markets are not that good, so finding a job is getting very difficult and stressful. I wish I had relevant experience before coming here.
Likes (Indian Food): In Los Angeles, there are numerous Indian restaurants. Some of them are decently priced and some are expensive, based on the ambiance. Generally, you can find good restaurants without any issues. As a reference, Chicken Biryani at a good restaurant typically ranges from USD 18 to USD 25. I try to save money by cooking my own food.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): The immigration backlog for Indians coming to this country is extensive. The expected time for permanent residency is more than 100 years, so it is not possible for permanent settlement. Also, opportunities in India are growing exponentially. I plan to go back after my studies. I would be living peacefully in my country without any daily stress of losing a job and having to leave the country.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 950
Prepping time for classes40 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 120000
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
3.2
It is a good university but only if you can afford it.
Tips: You can consider joining this college only if you can manage the expenses. Avoid taking a loan as it is not justified for this university given that you are responsible for your placements and there is always the possibility of a recession or layoffs in the country. It is advisable to keep expenses minimal. On campus jobs are not very common but attainable.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1325
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85225
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
3.1
The rich sporty college.
Tips: I feel that my university is expensive and because of the current job market, the investment was not worth it. Other than that, everything seemed fine. They encourage co-curricular activities. The environment here is very diverse and you can make good friends.
Likes (Quality of faculty): Professors over here are really knowledgeable. They know what they teach. They have office hours and encourage students to be interactive. PhD is something that professors here support. Overall I feel that it's great academically. That would be it.
Dislikes (Part time work): The number of students In USC is humongous, and the part-time job openings are relatively fewer. It's kind of hard to get a part-time on-campus job. I would recommend students to hunt for jobs at the lab. Even though it's difficult, it would be worth it.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1200
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 90000
K
Kaushal Ganesh Binjola 
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Southern California
3.7
University of Southern California is safe choice.
Tips: The courses are heavy, and the university is quite academically oriented. It is also a very expensive university, so you should take courses that suit you well (these courses are competitive and difficult). It is also an expensive endeavour to live off campus, but there are great student housing and security measures like free Lyft, and security is provided by the university.
Likes (Student Life): There are many on-campus events for students. Other than that, there are hundreds of student-run clubs catering to any hobby you might have. The campus is pretty big as well brimming with things happening any time you go to campus. There is also an app for you to stay up to date with all events.
Dislikes (Safety): Los Angeles is notorious for being an unsafe city. There are constant reports of assault or robbery. But the college has noted this and has free Lyft and security patrol zones. Other than that, the public transport is shady, filled with people who are most probably high.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Akshay Jain 
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
4
Exceptionally qualified teaching faculty.
Tips: Before joining any college in the US, students should be aware that they will struggle at some point. They will make bad decisions, lose track of time, don't get enough time to cook and might even get bad grades. However, they have to motivate and keep on trying. USC has taught me a lot and groomed my entire personality. This is a continuous learning process and it takes time to reach the goals set.
Likes (Quality of faculty): Most of the Computer Science faculty on campus are exceptionally qualified and willing to help students in every possible manner. They take student feedback into consideration and offer make-up assignments as well. Teaching methodology involves theory + practical application with a focus on clearing fundamentals. Classes are fun but that depends upon student interest. The teaching faculty is diverse and understanding.
Dislikes (Safety): USC has partnered with DPS (Depth. Of Public Safety, under LAPD) to ensure patrolling of areas around the campus during night time. There are security personnel (USC Yellow Jackets) placed at strategic locations to monitor the area. However, students sometimes face incidents related to cycle theft, burglary, fondling, etc. due to negligence and the homeless population around the area.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 100
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 90000
A
Abhimanyu Sharma 
BA in Cinema and Media Studies - Batch of 2021
Offered by University of Southern California
4
Excellent faculty at the film school.
Tips: There is a culture shock for sure, despite assuming that I know everything cause I saw all the TV shows so couldn't be more wrong. The film course is under the school of cinematic arts, which is known to be quite competitive. The faculty of the film school includes renowned names in the industry, and they train you to keep up with the industry standard.
Likes (Student Life): There are clubs, societies, and networking for everyone if you seek it out. It is centrally located so you have access to various necessities and leisure. They have sports facilities for those that are inclined towards that. I joined several clubs and ended up meeting a lot of like-minded people, which definitely helps in adjusting to a new country.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Permanent immigration options are easier for STEM majors, although there are plenty of options for other fields as well all across the spectrum. I personally wanted to get back to India and pursue filmmaking in Bombay, although if you network well enough, there are collaborative opportunities that you can pursue with other international students.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1223
Prepping time for classes17 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
L
Lasya Vadapalli 
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2022
Offered by University of Southern California
2.2
USC is very expensive, try public universities.
Tips: USC is very expensive. Apart from that, the university boosts a number of labs which provide ample research opportunities. The student population is very diverse. It also has a huge Indian population. Courses are difficult to register for because of the large class size.
Likes (Public transportation): I found public transport non-reliable due to erratic schedule and it is not very safe. The campus shuttle is not very frequent. Most students use personal means to travel to the campus. Hence, it is important that you stay close to the campus.
Dislikes (Internships): We received very limited help from the university. The Office of International Services (OIS) sometimes does not provide enough support to international students. The career services do not provide personalized help. The career fairs are also not that great.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1170
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 129176
A
Astha Tewatia 
MS in Pharmaceutical Sciences - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
3.8
Mental peace and health are given importance at University of Southern California
Tips: Students should not get intimidated by the fee expenses. They should be willing for hard-core multitasking and should be at their best in time management. If not, they will miss out on some serious opportunities organized by the university for students. Students should be willing to come out of their comfort zone and should actively participate in activities for making the most of this university.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The quality of faculty is 5/5. They make your efforts count in every possible manner. It is very easy to reach out to the professors and they are always willing to help students out of their domain as well. Mental peace and health are given importance. Professors are always ready to listen to students which is all that an international student needs sometimes.
Dislikes (Safety): Safety in Los Angeles has been quite an issue for students over here. Public transportation is not the first option for many students when traveling alone. I have witnessed incidents where safety of people in LA is compromised. Homelessness is a major concern over here.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 904
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
P
Parul Gupta 
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2021
Offered by University of Southern California
3.8
USC rocks! One should take admission here.
Tips: Hard work is the key and try to connect with Alumni and get suggestions for subjects. Prepare LeetCode for technical interviews. Talk to the professors before getting enrolled in a subject regarding which you are doubtful, as every course has its own fees and structure.
Likes (Safety): The university has its own team to take care of it. They have free Lyft app for certain areas and cruise availability for students. They have security people in the campus to watch over students' activities during off hours and at nights, they make sure that nothing wrong happens.
Dislikes (Value for money): Other cheaper universities can provide the same experience and better education in some subjects. Also, other universities might have more flexible syllabus to do what you want in a particular field. Assignments are pretty hectic for some courses.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1194
Prepping time for classes34 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 101667
A
Anonymous
BS in Business Administration - Batch of 2028
Offered by University of Southern California
4.1
Unwavering success and collaboration.
Tips: There is always a bit of a culture shift when you migrate to a different country. Though USC is so diverse in its student body, it still feels like home. There is no other place I'd want to be at. There are multiple scholarships that you can apply for, and if you're merit enough, you might end up getting them. Public transportation is not really convenient because it does not connect a lot of places that anyone wants to go to. And even if it does, it is not really that safe to use alone or in a small group. The public transportation is technically very affordable but given that it is not that safe or easy to use, its affordability doesn't add much to its benefits.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The faculty here is excellent. They are approachable, even if you are not taking a class with them. It is very diverse and the faculty represents multiple nationalities from multiple countries. The teaching methodology is very practical and very much inclined towards the emphasis of group work and team spirit and collaboration.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes5 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 90000
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Computer Engineering - Batch of 2018
Offered by University of Southern California
4.5
University of Southern California- A great school with great spirit.
Tips: Perhaps the biggest cultural shock was the variety of choices in the grocery stores. Plus, by default, most of the food items have added sugar, so I had to make sure to read the fine print to choose the ones that did not. I'm very satisfied with the university and the course. I was funded by a research project for my PhD program. It provided tuition and a stipend of around $2500 per month (it is now increased due to inflation). Also, my advice to the incoming student is to explore the campus, sports, college activities, and clubs to the fullest. Do not be stuck in just the academic bubble because US university experiences are very enriching and can have a tangible impact on your personality as well as your career.
Dislikes (Indian Food): Just like most US cities except for cities like Texas, NJ, etc, Indian food restaurants are a hit or a miss. Even if you find a good restaurant, they are expensive too because it's LA. So I prefer cooking or on days I'm extremely busy, I rely on sandwiches/soups which are healthier swaps. But LA is a foodie's paradise. So there are many options to explore especially Mexican food so I personally never missed Indian food.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1800
Prepping time for classes50 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 13020
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Southern California
2.5
USC is a decent university
Tips: The neighborhood the university is located in is not the safest, so you will have a tough time adjusting here. It is not the prettiest either and a far cry from the ideas that were fed to you about LA.
There are no scholarships offered and getting a job on campus too is very hard given the high demand.
There are better locations and universities in the US that would serve better to people who are new to the US.
Likes (Student Life): There are quite a few student clubs and events happening on campus but you need to be the one to track them and put in the effort to attend them. They aren't always the most productive but you do enjoy yourself. The masters courses are usually late in the day so it does give you time to participate in other activities early in the day.
Dislikes (Public transportation): You have free lyft around campus. You also are given a public transport pass so it's decent that way but not the most convenient or safe. But if you need to go anywhere far you will need to buy a car or use Uber which can get quite expensive. On campus, many students just use a cycle.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1550
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 112975
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