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.

Latest NEWS

ALI BANITABA BLENDS GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE WITH PERSONAL VISION4/20/2026

ALI BANITABA BLENDS GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE WITH PERSONAL VISION

Originally from Iran, Ali Banitaba discovered his passion for architecture at a young age while watching his grandparents build their home. That early exposure to design and construction sparked an interest that would eventually lead him across the world to Los Angeles—and into one of the nation’s top architecture programs at the University of Southern California.After beginning his academic journey at Santa Monica College, Banitaba transferred to USC, drawn by its highly ranked architecture program. The transition, he said, was seamless, with most of his credits transferring smoothly, allowing him to quickly immerse himself in the university’s rigorous studio culture.At...

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.

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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