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University of Southern California: A Legacy of Excellence in the Heart of Los Angeles

Explore USC, California's oldest private research university, in the heart of Los Angeles, with its rich history, culture, and Olympic legacy.

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The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, stands as California's oldest private research university. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, USC has grown from a small school with 53 students to a global institution with over 47,000 students. Renowned for its academic programs, diverse student body, and contributions to the city, USC offers visitors a glimpse into a vibrant campus steeped in history and culture.

A brief summary to University of Southern California

Local tips

  • Take a guided tour to learn about USC's history, traditions, and academic programs.
  • Visit the USC Fisher Museum of Art or explore the campus's public art collection.
  • Explore Exposition Park, adjacent to USC, which houses museums and entertainment venues.
  • Check the USC events calendar for performances, lectures, and exhibitions.
  • Utilize public transportation, like the Metro E Line, to easily access the campus.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach USC via public transport, the Metro E Line (Expo) provides a direct connection from Downtown LA and Culver City. Trains run frequently, and the Expo Park/USC station is a short walk from the heart of campus. A one-way fare is $1.75, including 2.5 hours of free transfers with a TAP card. Several bus lines also serve the USC area. Check the LA Metro website for the latest schedules.

  • Walking

    If you are in the University Park neighborhood or visiting nearby Exposition Park, walking to USC is a convenient option. From Exposition Park, simply cross Figueroa Street to enter the USC campus. достопримечательности Within University Park, follow the campus map to navigate to specific buildings or landmarks.

  • Ride Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at the passenger loading zone west of Galen Center on Figueroa Street. From there, it's a short walk to various points on campus. A short trip from downtown Los Angeles to USC will typically cost $10-$20, depending on traffic and demand. Note that traffic can be heavy during peak hours and on event days.

  • Driving

    When driving to USC, be aware of limited parking options on campus. Guests can purchase short-term or all-day parking using Text2Park or Pay-By-Plate stations. Daily parking rates can vary, especially during special events and football game days. Nearby parking garages, such as the USC Village Parking Garage, offer hourly rates. Parking costs approximately $10 for 2 hours. All commuter permit rates include a 10% City of Los Angeles Parking Occupancy Tax. Online orders incur a $5 convenience fee.

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Discover more about University of Southern California

The University of Southern California (USC) is a private research university in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1880, it is the oldest private research university in California. USC has played a vital role in shaping Los Angeles, educating many of the city's leaders and professionals. From its humble beginnings with a single wooden building and a $15 tuition fee, USC now encompasses a sprawling 229-acre University Park Campus with architecturally significant buildings. Visitors can explore museums like the USC Fisher Museum of Art, and iconic landmarks such as the Bovard Administration Building and the Tommy Trojan statue. The campus has twelve Historic Cultural Monuments. USC's connection to the Olympic Games dates back to 1904. The university has produced more Olympians, medalists, and gold medalists than any other U.S. institution. USC also neighbors Exposition Park, offering access to the California African American Museum, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, and the California Science Center.

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