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University of Southern California: A Legacy of Excellence

Explore USC: California's oldest private research university, blending historic architecture with modern innovation in the heart of Los Angeles.

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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 humble beginnings to a global center for education, research, and the arts. With its iconic Romanesque architecture and a vibrant campus life, USC offers a rich blend of history and innovation.

A brief summary to University of Southern California

Local tips

  • Take a guided tour to discover USC's history, architecture, and hidden gems.
  • Visit the campus museums, such as the USC Fisher Museum of Art and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, located near the campus.
  • Explore the campus's 12 Historic Cultural Monuments and admire the Romanesque architecture.
  • Utilize public transportation, such as the Metro E Line, for convenient access to the campus.
  • Check the USC Transportation website for information on parking, permits, and transportation options.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Downtown LA, take the Metro E Line (Expo) to the Expo Park/USC Station. The train ride is approximately 15 minutes. A one-way fare is $1.75, which includes two hours of free transfers with a TAP card. Several bus lines also serve the USC area, including LADOT DASH F and Metro lines 2, 35/38, 81, and 102. Bus fares are typically $1.75 per ride.

  • Walking

    From the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, head north on Figueroa Street. Walk approximately 10-15 minutes to reach the heart of the USC campus. Look for the Tommy Trojan statue as a central landmark. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Ride Share

    From the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, request a ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to the University of Southern California. The ride is approximately 5 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is $8 - $15. Note that prices may vary depending on demand and time of day.

  • Driving

    From Interstate 110 (Harbor Freeway), exit at Exposition Boulevard and head east. Follow the signs to USC. Parking is available in various structures on campus, including the Royal and Downey Structures. Daily parking rates range from $18-$20. Note that the McClintock Avenue Entrance has restricted vehicle access.

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Discover more about University of Southern California

The University of Southern California (USC), a private research university in Los Angeles, California, was founded in 1880. It is the oldest private research university in California. USC's development has mirrored the growth of Los Angeles, educating many of the city's leaders and professionals. Founded by Judge Robert Maclay Widney, USC was established through donations from Ozro Childs, John Gately Downey, and Isaias Wolf Hellman. These early benefactors provided the land and seed money for the first buildings. Originally affiliated with the Methodist Church, USC has been non-denominational since 1952. From an initial enrollment of 53 students and 10 faculty members, USC has grown to accommodate over 47,000 students. The University Park Campus, USC's main campus, features Romanesque buildings designed by architect John Parkinson starting in 1919. These structures contribute to the campus's unique architectural identity. Historic landmarks include the Bovard Administration Building, completed in 1921, and Widney Hall, the university's first building. USC has a long-standing tradition of Olympic participation, with its students and alumni winning more medals than any other university in the United States. USC has two primary campuses in Los Angeles, welcoming visitors to explore its museums, cultural monuments, and sprawling grounds.

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