Upload
lexuyen
View
213
Download
0
Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
SPPDUSC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
University of Southern California
2011-12
Shape the World›› Public Administration ›› Public Policy››Urban Planning››Health Administration››Real Estate Development
››Shape the World
On the cover: SPPD students who launched the school’s first student-run academic journal, the SPPD Review. Front row (from left): Smita Satiani, MPP; Aurea Adao, MPL/MPAS; Brettany Shannon, MPL; Robert Fukumoto, MPP Center row (from left): Martin Kulli, MRED/MBA; Andrew Slaton, MRED; Amber Savage, MPA Back row (from left): Pernell Jones, MHA; Abby Goldstein, MPP; Matthew Pahl, MPA
About SPPD 2
Graduate Programs in Public Policy and Management• Master of Public Administration (MPA) 6
• Master of Public Policy (MPP) 10
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Management, see page 32
Graduate Programs in Urban Planning• Master of Planning (MPL) 14
• Ph.D. in Urban Planning and Development, see page 34
Graduate Programs in Health Management and Policy• Master of Health Administration (MHA) 18
• Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA) 20
• Master of Health Systems Management Engineering (MHSME) 21
• Master of Long Term Care Administration (MLTCA) 21
Graduate Programs in Real Estate Development• Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) 25
• Ross Minority Program in Real Estate 25
International Educational Programs• Master of International Public Policy and Management (IPPAM) 26
• International Labs 27
• Short-Term International Programs 27
Executive and Leadership Programs• Doctor of Policy, Planning, and Development (DPPD) 28
• Executive Master of Leadership (EML) 29
• Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA), see page 20
• International Public Policy and Management (IPPAM), see page 26
• Short-Term Executive Leadership Programs 30
• Short-Term International Executive Education Programs, see page 27
Ph.D. Programs• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public Policy and Management 32
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Urban Planning and Development 34
Undergraduate Degree• Bachelor of Science in Policy, Planning, and Development 36
Faculty 38
Research 42
Distance Learning: Online Degrees and Certificates• Online Master of Public Administration 44
• Online Certificate in Homeland Security 44
• Online Certificate in Long-Term Care Administration 44
USC State Capital Center in Sacramento 45
Career Services and Alumni 46
SPPD Students and Student Associations 48
SPPD ›› Table of Contents
usc.edu/sppd follow us on: facebook.com/USCSPPD twitter.com/USCSPPD
USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development
In today’s world of dynamic change and globalization, social and
economic challenges have become increasingly complex and enduring.
Solving society’s most pressing issues – including sustainability, health-
care reform, housing, immigration, infrastructure, urban development,
social planning and policy, and governance – requires innovation and
collaboration. These issues call for leaders who are able to move beyond
their areas of expertise and work across the public, private, and
nonprofit sectors to find vital solutions.
Through its interdisciplinary approach, SPPD trains
and educates students to serve as innovators – and
leaders – in their fields.
SPPD ›› About SPPD
Educating leaders and innovators The School of Policy, Planning, and Development (SPPD)
degree programs in public administration, public policy,
urban planning, real estate development, and health
administration draw on the expertise of faculty and practic-
ing professionals to create a learning environment with
breadth and depth that sets SPPD apart. SPPD ranks sev-
enth nationwide among “America’s Best Graduate Schools”
for public affairs, according to U.S. News & World Report.
An SPPD Education
SPPD offers an education that:
• Combines social sciences, professional
expertise, and the resources of a world-class
research university to give students breadth,
depth, and variety.
• Fosters the relationships between students
and teachers.
• Offers both academic and real-world experi-
ences, drawing on a network of engaged alumni,
advisors, and prominent professionals.
• Encourages innovation, entrepreneurship,
experimentation, and collaboration.
• Instills a multidisciplinary and problem-
solving ethic.
• Focuses broadly and inclusively on the issues,
constituencies, structures, and institutions
engaged in public life – in both governance
and the built environment.
• Uses Los Angeles and the greater Southern
California region as a living laboratory in which
to practice the lessons of the classroom.
• Provides students opportunities to apply
their skills in the global arena.
3
About SPPD››u
sc.edu/sppd
The mission of the School of Policy, Planning, and Development (SPPD)is to improve the quality of life for people and their communities, here and abroad.
We achieve this mission through education and research that promote innovative solutions to the most critical issues facing society.
New forms of governance require that public administra-
tors and managers, policymakers, planners, real estate
developers, and healthcare managers work together – and
reach across sectors – for the betterment of communities
everywhere. It is for this multidisciplinary reality that SPPD
prepares its students and conducts its academic research.
Exceptional Faculty
SPPD faculty members are distinguished scholars who
share a deep commitment to research and teaching. Their
diverse disciplinary backgrounds and research interests
include economics, international relations, urban planning,
organizational behavior, philosophy, political science,
psychology, public administration, public policy, sociology,
and social ethics. Many SPPD faculty members also serve
on the boards of leading academic journals and major
public and nonprofit organizations. In all their work, they
contribute to the store of knowledge in their respective
disciplines and to the formation of the next generation
of civic and community leaders.
Extraordinary Students
Students with a wide range of backgrounds and interests
are drawn to SPPD’s academic programs. Many enter the
school’s master’s degree programs directly following com-
pletion of their undergraduate degrees, while others have
accumulated significant experience in professional prac-
tice. SPPD’s class scheduling accommodates both full-time
students and working professionals. Graduates of the
school hold important positions in government, business,
and the nonprofit sector. In all their endeavors, alumni
draw on the invaluable repertoire of knowledge and
skills gained at SPPD.
Research Opportunities
USC is the oldest private research university in the
American West and one of only 62 members of the
Association of American Universities. Its faculty and
students collaborate on a wide range of individual and
grant-funded research projects, many of which take
place in the school’s research centers and institutes.
That research directly impacts Southern California,
the nation, and the world.
About SPPD
4 USC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
The SPPD Context
SPPD’s multidisciplinary nature provides a cohesive
education with breadth and depth that sets its academic
programs apart. To prepare themselves for a wide range
of careers, students are encouraged to take courses
offered by the school’s distinctive, yet interconnected,
master’s degree programs: public administration, public
policy, planning, real estate development, and health
administration. A student’s peers inside the classroom
today may become their professional colleagues locally
and globally tomorrow.
About USC
USC is one of the world’s premier teaching and research
universities and the oldest private research university in the
West. Distinguished by a renowned faculty, innovative com-
munity-building initiatives, and highly selective admission
standards, USC ranks in the top one percent of the nation’s
colleges and universities in academic quality. Among private
research universities, USC consistently appears on the
list of the top 10 recipients of federal research funding.
Alumni and donors recently demonstrated an extraordinary
commitment to USC and its future by supporting a
$2.85 billion fundraising campaign. USC was named the
TIME Magazine/Princeton Review “College of the Year” in
2000, in recognition of USC’s dedication to public service.
Welcome to Los Angeles
There's no better place to study and analyze policy,
planning, and development than Los Angeles, the world-
class metropolis that is home to USC and SPPD.
L.A. is the second-largest U.S. city and offers unique
diversity unlike anywhere in the world – from its people to
its landscapes to its industries to its cultures. It is also a
global economic hub – a center of international trade, busi-
ness, finance, technology, aerospace, and entertainment.
USC, located just three miles from the city’s downtown,
12 miles from the beach, and 60 miles from both deserts
and snow-capped mountains, is truly a gateway to all of
the varied experiences L.A. has to offer.
“USC is situated in the right place – an urban location with a diversity of ethnicities, cultures, political views, and people with different backgrounds and values.”– Helen Tran, BS '09, MHA candidate
“Who wouldn’t want to go to USC?I’d been dreaming of being able to go to USC since high school.”– Petty Santos, EML ’10
5
About SPPD››u
sc.edu/sppd
A Message from the Dean
Since 2005, it has been my privilege to serve as dean of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, one of
the most distinctive and highly regarded schools of its kind in the nation.
SPPD engages in solving some of the most critical issues facing our world today, such as unemployment, effective
governance, nonprofit management, homeland security, healthcare reform and healthy communities, social policy,
infrastructure and transportation, environmental and financial sustainability, and the real estate and housing markets.
Addressing these complex challenges requires leadership, an understanding of the
multiple disciplines that bear on any single issue, and the determination and courage
to break new ground in search of lasting solutions. I am honored to head a school
whose students work to shape our world for the better.
At the core of SPPD is our distinguished faculty. Their strong intellectual leadership and
dedication to improving the quality of life for people and their communities worldwide
provide the cornerstone of what we impart to our students.
SPPD offers considerable opportunities for students to work with faculty in addressing
real-world problems, complete internships, and interact with prominent practitioners.
At SPPD, we call this “knowledge in action.”
The city of Los Angeles, with its rich cultural diversity and unique urban setting, provides
an ideal “living laboratory” for learning. In addition, SPPD students every year can travel
abroad – to Asia, South America, or Europe – to examine issues in a global context.
I invite you to learn more about SPPD by browsing our Web site at usc.edu/sppd and
following us on Facebook and Twitter. You may also visit us in Ralph and Goldy Lewis
Hall on the USC campus. To arrange a visit, please call (213) 740-0550.
Meet our faculty. Speak with our students. Whatever your professional or scholarly
interest, SPPD will provide you with an exciting, challenging, and lively environment in
which to study, work, learn, and shape the world.
Sincerely,
Jack H. KnottC. Erwin and Ione L. Piper Dean and Professor
Shape the World
Public Administration
Public administrators run our harbors, airports, and public transportation
networks. They manage our environmental protection systems, community
centers, schools, and universities. They are leaders in healthcare, urban
revitalization, and welfare reform. They work in the public and nonprofit
sectors and with private agencies to help manage virtually every aspect
of our public services. They oversee and continuously redesign gover-
nance structures at the city, county, state, and federal levels to create
place-based solutions to community problems.
A career in public management provides an opportu-
nity to shape the future of our communities and to
improve our overall quality of life.
SPPD ›› Graduate Programs in Public Policy and Management
Shaping the future of public service In a world of rapid change, public administration
professionals use their leadership capabilities to address
critical social challenges, including:
• How can we maintain high-quality public
service in the face of diminishing government
resources?
• How can leaders from multiple sectors work
together to solve public problems?
• How can citizens be more effectively engaged
in governing processes?
• What must be done to prepare the next
generation of leaders in public service, as our
current leaders near retirement?
The Master of Public Administration Program
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program offers
a professional education designed to prepare students
for the challenges and opportunities of a career in public
management or in related nonprofit and private organiza-
tions. Established in 1929, the MPA program at the USC
School of Policy, Planning, and Development (SPPD) is one
of the oldest and most distinguished programs of its kind
in the United States. SPPD is rated seventh overall among
public affairs schools nationwide and ranks fifth for the
public management/administration specialty, according
to U.S. News & World Report.
Some of the program’s specific strengths include:
• A management, analytical, and policymaking focus that
prepares students to pursue their individual interests
and concentrate in one of many specialized fields
• A full-time faculty of exceptional diversity and strength
• An active part-time faculty of noted professionals
• An 82-year history of leadership in professional and
academic fields
(continued on page 9)
“Not only are faculty very accessible, alumni are very accessible. They're in places of influence, and
they're willing to talk to you and help you.”– Lauren Gregor, MPA '08, Communications Manager,
Inner City Education Foundation Public Schools
“SPPD and the MPA program gave me the opportunity to put leadership into practice.”
– Amber Savage, MPA ’10
Graduate Programs in Public Policy and Management
“SPPD is a model of the future in terms of schools, because of its focus on cross-sectoral solutions to the major issues of our day.”– John Keisler, MPA '05, Business Operations Manager, City of Long Beach Parks, Recreation, and Marine Department
“I had internships throughout my experience at SPPD. They were invaluable.”– Matthew Pahl, MPA ’10, SPPD City/County Fellowship Program
• Paid internship opportunities
• The City/County Management Fellowship, which offers
selected students financial, academic, and professional
support from prestigious faculty and practitioners in
the management field
• An extensive alumni network
• An advisory board comprising leaders in the public,
private, and nonprofit sectors
• MPA Labs – enriching workshops that develop
professional skills and knowledge about a broad
range of social issues
• A facility in Sacramento – the USC State Capital
Center – that gives students the opportunity to gain
first-hand knowledge of complex state-local
and state-federal relationships
9
Master of Public Administration››u
sc.edu/spp
d/mpa
• Beginning Fall 2011 – the option to complete the
entire MPA degree online
The MPA program is a two-year full-time program or
a three-year part-time program, and may be completed
at the University Park Campus in Los Angeles or the
USC State Capital Center in Sacramento.
MPA Specialization Electives
MPA students are encouraged to specialize within a
substantive subject area. Students are free to self-design
specializations, but popular areas include:
• Civil Infrastructure
• Community and Economic Development
• Environmental Management and Land-Use Policy
• Financial Management
• Health Administration
• Intergovernmental Management
• International Policy Management
• Local Government
• Nonprofit Management
• Political Management
• Public Policy
• Urban Planning
Dean’s Merit Scholarship
“I am extremely grateful for the SPPD Dean's Merit
Scholarship. I was able to take classes, get involved in
SPPD, and pursue my career without having to factor
in the financial costs of my course load.”
– Chérie Romar, MPA ’11
MPA Program Characteristics*
Total Enrollment 225
% Enrolled Full Time 83%
% Minority 42%
% International 15%
% Outside Southern California 46%
Average Age 27
Average Class Size (Core) 28
Average Class Size (Elective) 21
# New Students (Fall) 90
GPA (second and third quartile range) 3.25-3.69
GRE (second and third quartile range) 1090-1310
* Academic Year 2010-11
Admission and Scholarship Deadlines
Fall – December 15 scholarship deadline
Fall – July 1 final admission deadline
Spring – November 1 final admission deadline
Summer – April 1 final admission deadline
Graduate Programs in Public Policy and Management
“Public administration is about public service. It’s about running our cities, government agencies and
nonprofits. Our goal is to prepare students to be leaders who will solve today’s critical social problems.”
– Shui Yan Tang, Professor, Director, Master of Public Administration Program
Public Policy
Policy analysts inform and shape the public mandates and strategies
that improve life for residents in all communities. Working within a
complex system of governance, they partner with peers and colleagues
in government, business, and the nonprofit sector to find innovative
solutions to societal problems and challenges. They integrate leadership,
analysis, evaluation, and management to address the most pressing
policy issues facing society. Their work covers a wide range of fields,
including social and urban services, environmental
sustainability, economic development, international
affairs and trade, health, education, transportation,
and homeland security.
SPPD ›› Graduate Programs in Public Policy and Management
Forging solutions through policy change Policy analysts confront many of today’s most
significant social issues, such as:
• How can business, government, and the non-
profit sector collaborate to develop sustainable
economic development strategies?
• How can urban policymakers ensure adequate
and affordable housing in congested urban areas?
• What technological investments and behavioral
changes are needed to redress climate change?
• What can schools do to help reverse the child-
hood obesity epidemic?
• What role can the philanthropic sector play in fos-
tering community in low-income neighborhoods?
• How can local governments more meaningfully
engage community members in policymaking
and planning?
The Master of Public Policy Program
The Master of Public Policy (MPP) program at the USC
School of Policy, Planning, and Development (SPPD) is one
of the most distinguished of its kind in the United States.
SPPD is rated seventh overall among public affairs schools
nationwide, according to U.S. News & World Report.
In the MPP program, students are taught to develop
“knowledge in action.” The professional focus ensures that
students will have the skills to be successful in our rapidly
globalizing world. Through course work, interaction with
faculty, and practical experience, MPP students gain
awareness of the political environment and develop an
understanding of the effects that decisions have on
government, business, and the community.
“I did a yearlong internship with a public affairs firm. I could see how the public and private sectors can really work together
to get things accomplished.” – Abigail Goldstein, MPP ’10
“All the students in my classes are very ambitious, very motivated, and very collaborative in their work —
and it definitely brings out the most in you.”– Ayesha Hashim, MPP student
Graduate Programs in Public Policy and Management
“At SPPD, you gain a rich understanding of all underlying theories and ideas, merged with their real-world, day-to-day execution. By the time you finish, you have a full picture of whatever your endeavor is.”– Stephan Guine, MPP '96, Systems Engineering Manager, Northrop Grumman
13
Master of Public Policy››u
sc.edu/sppd/mpp
“The greatest thing about SPPD was understanding social issues on the local,
national, and international levels.” – Smita Satiani, MPP ’10, Clinton-Orfalea Fellow 2010
The program offers a number of distinct features:
• A small size that allows one-on-one access to
full-time faculty
• Professors who involve students in meaningful
research and civic engagement
• Integrated analysis and leadership development
• Instruction in a broad range of analytical skills
• Practical, real-world experience and career support
MPP students are an exceptional group who vary in
their backgrounds, experience, interests, professional
training, and education. Some come straight from an
undergraduate setting, while others have significant expe-
rience in professional practice. While most public policy
students hold bachelor’s degrees in the social sciences,
students with an undergraduate degree in any field are
eligible for admission and encouraged to apply.
Faculty members, employers, and program advisors
often remark on the characteristics of the typical MPP
candidate – strong analytical, quantitative, and verbal skills;
intellectual curiosity; and a deep commitment to under-
standing and solving the problems facing our society.
“We are facing a multitude of critical challenges — glob-
ally, nationally, and locally. The need for educated public
policy professionals has never been greater, nor the field
more rewarding,” says Professor Gary Painter, director of
graduate programs in public policy. “SPPD MPP students
learn to apply analytical and quantitative skills to complex
issues and develop leadership talent to employ solutions.”
The MPP program is a two-year full-time program or a
three-year part-time program.
MPP Specialization Electives
MPP students are encouraged to specialize within a
substantive subject area. Students are free to self-design
specializations, but popular areas include:
• Business and Entrepreneurship
• Civil Infrastructure
MPP Program Characteristics*
Total Enrollment 123
% Enrolled Full Time 94%
% Minority 44%
% International 13%
% Outside Southern California 36%
Average Age 26
Average Class Size (Core) 30
Average Class Size (Elective) 25
# New Students (Fall) 61
GPA (median) 3.36
GRE (median) 1240
* Academic Year 2010-11
Graduate Programs in Public Policy and Management
MPP students delivered research findings to class project
client, the L.A. City Ethics Commission, at City Hall.
Dr. Gary Painter, Director of SPPD’s Graduate Programs
in Public Policy
• Community and Economic Development
• Education Policy
• Environmental Policy
• Health Policy
• Homeland Security and Public Policy
• International Policy Development
• Management
• Media and Communication Policy
• Nonprofit Management and Policy
• Political Management
• Transportation Policy and Planning
• Urban and Social Policy
Admission and Scholarship Deadlines
Fall – December 15 scholarship deadline
Fall – July 1 final admission deadline
Spring – November 1 final admission deadline
Doctor of Philosophy, Public Policy and
Management (Ph.D.)
The School of Policy, Planning, and Development
offers a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Management.
See page 32 for more information.
Urban Planning
Urban planning professionals help communities and decision makers at the
local, state, and national levels in obtaining place-based solutions to prob-
lems related to land use, transportation, housing, economic development,
the environment, sustainability, and the design of more livable communities.
Planners address urban issues at various scales: city blocks, neigh-
borhoods, metropolises, and even entire regions. In their interdisciplinary
and collaborative professional work, planners engage with businesses,
citizen groups, and elected officials to define, organize,
and better understand their physical, natural, and social
environments. They are often advocates for economic
development, environmental quality, social justice, livabili-
ty of the built environment, and interests
of future generations in a global economy
and an urbanizing world.
SPPD ›› Graduate Programs in Urban Planning
Driving sustainable growth and change Urban planners address critical challenges of contempo-
rary social, economic, and environmental problems:
• How can we make a city greener without
creating economic inefficiencies that adversely
affect residents’ lives?
• How can we protect vulnerable communities
while managing growth and change?
• What balance does a region need between
private and public transportation?
• What design components can we insert into
neighborhood plans to help residents lead
healthier lives?
• How does the American experience compare
to the challenges and opportunities in growing
Asian or Latin American cities?
The Master of Planning Program
The Master of Planning (MPL) program at the USC School
of Policy, Planning, and Development (SPPD) is one of the
most distinguished of its kind in the United States. SPPD
is rated seventh overall among public affairs schools nation-
wide, according to U.S. News & World Report. In addition,
the MPL program ranks seventh in the 2012 Planetizen
Guide to Urban Planning Programs.
The MPL program is committed to preparing students
for practice at the local, regional, state, and national levels.
A hallmark of the program is the multi-sector approach to
planning, which emphasizes the needs of public and pri-
vate interests, nonprofit organizations, and citizen groups.
A further distinction of the curriculum is its commitment
to exploring universal principles of planning and preparing
students to practice anywhere in the world.
MPL students come from all over the country and many
nations. They are culturally diverse and vary in their back-
grounds, experience, interests, professional training, and
(continued on page 17)
“The strength of the program is the connection between theory and practice.”
– Susan O'Carroll, MPL '81, Ph.D. '89, President/Founder,
Pareto Planning and Environmental Services
“The internship and the classroom experience really speak with one another.”
– Brettany Shannon, MPL ’10, SPPD Ph.D. student, Co-Editor-in-Chief, SPPD Review Student Journal
Graduate Programs in Urban Planning
MPL students analyze Los Angeles’ complex urban fabric.
“I will never forget the personalized attention I received from SPPD faculty. I cherish it to this day.”– Shubaroop Ghosh, MPL '02, Vice President of Data Services, ImageCat, Inc.
“What was great about SPPD’s international Costa Rica lab was the well-connected teacher. She introduced us to people high up in the government there.” – Aurea Adao, MPL/Master of Public Arts Studies ’11, Co-Editor-in-Chief, SPPD Review Student Journal, Administrative Intern, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority
17
Master of Planning››u
sc.edu/sppd/mpl
education. Some come straight from an undergraduate
setting, while others have substantial work experience in
planning and other fields. Many see the MPL degree
as a way to change careers, to move into high-growth
service sectors, or to assume more significant manage-
ment or executive roles in their organizations. All share
a commitment to implementing positive community
change and improving the quality of life for people in
the built environment.
“Urban planning is about anticipating the future.
It is about social equity and environmental justice, com-
munity livability, and sustainable development. It aims to
improve the community environment and the quality of
life in urban places and urbanizing societies,” says
Professor Tridib Banerjee, director of graduate programs
in urban planning (through December 2011).
A prestigious advisory board provides direction to
the program and practical training to students. Members
serve as guest speakers in classes and seminars, con-
tribute financial support, and assist in student placement.
The MPL program is a two-year full-time program or
a three-year part-time program.
MPL Concentrations
Concentrations are required and reflect the strengths
of the school. A methodology and a gateway course are
associated with each area. MPL students may select
from the following concentrations:
• Economic Development
• Preservation and Design of the Built Environment
• Social and Community Planning
• Sustainable Land Use Planning
• Transportation and Infrastructure Planning
Dean’s Merit Scholarship
“Receiving the SPPD Dean's Merit Scholarship made my
dream of pursuing dual master’s degrees in Public Policy
and Urban Planning a reality. Not only has this scholarship
made school – but also my goals – attainable.”
– La Mikia M. Castillo, MPP/MPL student,
Past President, Association of Black Students
in Policy, Planning, and Development
Admission and Scholarship Deadlines
Fall – December 15 scholarship deadline
Fall – July 1 final admission deadline
Spring – November 1 final admission deadline
Doctor of Philosophy, Urban Planning
and Development (Ph.D.)
The School of Policy, Planning, and Development
offers a Ph.D. in Urban Planning and Development.
See page 34 for more information.
MPL Program Characteristics*
Total Enrollment 152
% Enrolled Full Time 92%
% Minority 41%
% International 11%
% Outside Southern California 40%
Average Age 26
Average Class Size (Core) 31
Average Class Size (Elective) 24
# New Students (Fall) 74
GPA (second and third quartile range) 3.1-3.69
GRE (second and third quartile range) 1210-1330
* Academic Year 2010-11
Graduate Programs in Urban Planning
“Half of humanity now lives in urban areas. As challenges of sustainability, economic development, human health, and democratic
governance play out in cities and mega-cities across the globe, urban planners will have an increasingly critical role to play.”
– Marlon Boarnet, Professor, Director, Graduate Programs in Urban Planning (beginning January 2012)
SPPD students engage in an international planning studio.
Health Administration
The United States healthcare system is undergoing profound change.
Access, quality, and cost of healthcare are critical issues that affect all
citizens, residents, and communities. Healthcare and the healthcare
industry – which account for more than 17 percent of the entire U.S.
economy – involve complex and fast-moving developments in technolo-
gy, economics, ethics, finance, policy, and management. As an issue and
as a sector, healthcare requires an understanding of public, private, and
nonprofit interactions. Visionary and effective leadership
is needed to improve management structures in a highly
competitive, market-driven environment and to build
transparent, accountable, evidence-based care.
SPPD ›› Graduate Programs in Health Management and Policy
Addressing critical healthcare needs As the healthcare delivery system changes, career
opportunities abound. No field has greater need for lead-
ers and managers – in hospitals, health plans, medical
practices, health-related enterprises, and community
health organizations – who possess the knowledge, skills,
and experience to shape the future of healthcare.
Tomorrow’s healthcare leaders must address such
pressing issues as:
• How can we control healthcare costs as
baby boomers become senior citizens and
medical technology continues to advance?
• How can healthcare dollars be allocated
wisely across generations?
• How can we measure quality of care?
• How can we assure that all U.S. residents
have access to healthcare?
The Master of Health Administration Program
The Master of Health Administration (MHA) program draws
on the university’s 35 years of leadership in post-graduate
education in the health management and policy field. Its
curriculum emphasizes contemporary key areas including
quality of care issues, health economics and finance,
health policy analysis, management and the use of health
information technology, and organizational leadership.
The program is designed to allow for in-depth specializa-
tions in two of these five areas, with an emphasis on
quantitative analytic methods throughout all areas. The
USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development (SPPD) is
rated seventh overall among public affairs schools nation-
wide, according to U.S. News & World Report.
The MHA has established strong ties to the healthcare
community – successfully bridging the worlds of academ-
ics and professional practice. The school’s Board of
Councilors comprises top executives in healthcare, gov-
“The residency component was a determining factor. Experiencing different departments in a hos-pital and working on projects that affect patients
really set the SPPD program apart from all others.” – Pernell Jones, MHA ’10, Associate Director of
Practice Operations, Arch Health Partners
“SPPD is focused on making the student the center of the program.”
– Suzanne Yu, MHA '06, Practice Manager, University of California San Francisco Medical Center
Graduate Programs in Health Management and Policy
ernment, and business throughout California, and the
Health Advisory Board includes senior-level leaders
of healthcare organizations from across the state.
Consequently, MHA students have direct access to those
who are shaping healthcare and healthcare policy
throughout the region, state, nation, and world.
Another strength of the program lies in its diversity, or
“the differences that make a difference.” The multicultural
backgrounds of the MHA program’s students and faculty
greatly enrich the learning experience and provide ideal
preparation for a profession that crosses all cultures.
The MHA program is designed as a two-year full-time
program but can be completed as a part-time program.
MHA Specializations
MHA students may select from one of the following
specializations:
• Management, Operations, and Leadership
• Health Policy Analysis
• Health Finance
• Health Information Technology
• Quality of Care
Dean’s Merit Scholarship
“A factor that attracted me to SPPD was the Dean's
Merit Scholarship that was offered because it made
me feel valued as a student in their program.”
– Jennifer Anwar, MHA ’11, Administrative Intern,
VA Long Beach Healthcare System
Admission and Scholarship Deadlines
Fall – December 15 scholarship deadline
Fall – July 1 final admission deadline
Executive Master of Health Administration
The Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA)
program provides an unparalleled opportunity for sea-
soned clinical and management professionals to advance
or transition their careers in the dynamic field of health-
care. Participants sharpen their business acumen by gain-
ing in-depth knowledge of the latest theories and best
practices in contemporary health management. A practi-
cal, problem-solving approach ensures that skills can
immediately be applied on the job.
The EMHA is flexibly designed to accommodate the
schedules of fully employed, mid- to senior-level profession-
als, enabling them to earn their degrees while progressing
MHA Program Characteristics*
Total Enrollment 105
% Enrolled Full Time 74%
% Minority 51%
% International 17%
% Outside Southern California 44%
Average Age 26
Average Class Size (Core) 25
Average Class Size (Elective) 12
# New Students (Fall) 30
GPA (second and third quartile range) 2.9-3.55
GRE (second and third quartile range) 1020-1240
* Academic Year 2010-11
“In class, you can sit next to a VP or CFO of a hospital or a student just out of undergrad, and all perspectives are valuable – and valued here.”– Younes Injar, MHA ’10
USC University Hospital
20 USC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
21
Master of Health Administration››u
sc.edu/spp
d/mha
in their careers. The 34 units of study include 26 required
units offered in a conveniently structured executive inten-
sive format. Students then select eight units of electives
from among the school’s courses in health management
and policy or from other graduate programs. Some courses
may be taken in either Los Angeles or Sacramento.
The core Executive MHA curriculum develops “business
of healthcare” competencies in the areas of leadership
and management, legal issues, health economics and
finance, managed care, quality, information management,
and strategy. The innovative degree design also provides
for eight elective units that enable each executive to
develop expertise in areas of special interest, ranging from
health policy to ventures development. This learner-cen-
tered combination of core and elective units results in a
customized educational experience unique among execu-
tive health degree programs.
For more information, please visit usc.edu/sppd/emha.
Admission Deadlines
February 1 – priority deadline
May 1 – final deadline
Master of Health Systems Management
Engineering
The Master of Health Systems Management Engineering is
a joint program with the USC Viterbi School of Engineering
Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering.
It prepares students for process improvement roles in
the healthcare industry, particularly hospitals and health
management organizations. Many courses are offered at
night and/or through the Distance Education Network, so
students can enroll while continuing employment. (Open
to graduates from all engineering and technical majors.
Students with applied social science backgrounds should
complete the Master of Health Administration degree.)
For more information, please visit usc.edu/sppd/
programs/masters/dual/mhsme.html.
Online Master of Long Term Care Administration
In response to the emerging demands for long-term care
services for people of all ages who need assistance with
the activities of daily living, USC offers a Web-based mas-
ter’s degree program in Long Term Care Administration.
The 28-unit program is a joint effort between the USC
Dr. Mike Nichol, Director of SPPD’s GraduatePrograms in Health Administration and Policy
“Many professors are in the health administration field. They have us study real-world situations – what they’re dealing
with right now, with the changing economy and healthcare reforms – and that’s really helping to prepare us.”
– Susan Lam, MHA student, President, USC Student Health Council
Davis School of Gerontology, the USC Marshall School of
Business, and SPPD. Using an interdisciplinary approach, the
program provides professionals with graduate training in
the social, psychological, and physical aspects of aging, as
well as the administration and management of businesses
and organizations providing long-term care services.
For more information, please visit usc.edu/ltc.
EMHA Program Characteristics*
Total Enrollment 58
% Minority 55%
% Female 57%
Average Age 40
# New Students (Fall) 28
Average Years of Work Experience 17
* Academic Year 2010-11
Graduate Programs in Health Management and Policy
Real Estate Development
Real estate developers are the impresarios of the built environment.
They orchestrate the talents of many players and balance the wants
and dreams of various constituents touched by development projects.
It is their job to discover how we want to live and work – and to
provide the settings accordingly.
In many ways, real estate developers are creators of the urban
landscape, working within complex systems of governance to tackle
the challenge of converting undeveloped or underutilized
resources into homes, employment centers, civic areas,
and places of recreation and commerce. They embrace
the risks, responsibilities, and rewards that come with
making our built environments more
habitable and prosperous.
SPPD ›› Graduate Programs in Real Estate Development
Building our communities With greater frequency, community groups, government
agencies, other property owners, and even the media are
becoming involved in the real estate development
process. The capital markets, political and regulatory con-
text, and major players change so rapidly that it is difficult
to remain informed, let alone competitive. To deal with
these complexities, today’s industry professionals require
advanced training to prepare them to operate in an
increasingly technical and interrelated field.
In this rapidly evolving industry, developers must
address pressing questions, such as:
• What will cities need now and in the future?
• What forms of development will create the
most value for society?
• Who are the natural partners for such
development and redevelopment?
• Who will fund such projects? Who will
shepherd them?
• What risks exist in pursuing such projects,
and how can these be mitigated?
“The real estate curriculum is top notch, and the sense of community at SPPD is strong
throughout the school. It really brings all SPPD programs together.”
– Andrew Slaton, MRED ’10
“We have speakers series, we have luncheons, we have site tours, and you really get to connect
with practitioners and see theory in the classroom out in the field.”
– Martin Kulli, MRED/MBA ’10
Graduate Programs in Real Estate Development
“California is so progressive with development. SPPD's MRED program covers the full range of development, from high density to suburban. You can tailor the program to your personal interests.”– Kelley Curtin, MRED '10
“The MRED degree is directly tied to my career path, and many of the issues I deal with now were discussed and taught during my education at USC.”– Ross Mitchell, MRED '04, Vice President, Investments, Cohen Asset Management, Inc.
Dr. Chris Redfearn, Directorof Graduate Programs inReal Estate
Since its inception, the program has trained more
than 600 participants who have played key roles in many
significant commercial, mixed-use, and housing develop-
ments throughout the nation. The program is taught by
well-respected, diverse, and committed faculty. The
coursework is highly relevant and up-to-date with current
real estate market trends. Students leave the program
equipped with the understanding of the real estate devel-
opment process through hands-on experiential learning.
The program has three iterations: winter and summer
programs held on the USC campus, and the fall program
co-sponsored by the Bay Area Council and held in San
Francisco. As the program has grown, the curriculum,
which focuses on real estate finance and development,
has also evolved to include sessions on public-private
partnerships, the approval process, and market analysis.
For more information, please visit
usc.edu/sppd/lusk/ross.
25
Master of Real Estate Development ››u
sc.edu
/sppd/mredThe Master of Real Estate Development Program
Established in 1986, the Master of Real Estate
Development (MRED) Program at the USC School of Policy,
Planning, and Development (SPPD) is one of a small num-
ber of graduate degree programs in the country focused
on real estate development and one of the most highly
regarded. SPPD is rated seventh overall among public
affairs schools nationwide, according to U.S. News & World
Report. The MRED program is well established and closely
connected to the real estate industry through the USC
Lusk Center for Real Estate, a joint program of SPPD and
the USC Marshall School of Business.
Through its focus on design, finance, and policy, the
MRED program prepares graduates for key positions
in real estate development. Courses combine lectures,
projects, case analyses, site visits, and exercises so that
students can experience all facets of the developer’s tasks
and challenges – market analysis, finance and deal struc-
turing, site planning, and project management and opera-
tions – and to all product types – residential, commercial,
retail, office, and industrial. Whether in the context of
urban redevelopment, historic preservation, or suburban
growth, MRED students gain a developer’s perspective
on the importance of relevant issues in real estate law,
economics, finance, marketing, negotiation, architecture,
urban history, planning, project management, and
construction technology.
Students come from backgrounds in appraisal,
architecture, construction management, commercial bank-
ing, landscape design, asset management, real estate
development, brokerage, and urban planning.
“What ties them together is an entrepreneurial spirit
and a strong desire to have an influence on the built envi-
ronment – they want to be able to touch the product of
their efforts,” says Associate Professor Chris Redfearn,
director of graduate programs in real estate.
The MRED program is a one-year full-time program
or a two-year part-time program.
Admission and Scholarship Deadline
Summer – February 1
USC Ross Minority Program in Real Estate
The USC Ross Minority Program in Real Estate is an
intensive, comprehensive continuing education program
designed to provide real estate practitioners, nonprofit
and community leaders, public sector decision makers,
and entrepreneurs with skills and expertise to influence
the redevelopment process in traditionally underserved
communities.
MRED Program Characteristics*
Total Enrollment 75
% Enrolled Full Time 81%
% Minority 27%
% International 3%
Average Age 30
Average Class Size (Core) 27
Average Class Size (Elective) 32
# New Students (Summer) 30
Average Undergraduate GPA 3.28
Average Graduate GPA 3.54
Average GMAT 645
Average Years of Work Experience 5.8
* Academic Year 2011-12
Graduate Programs in Real Estate Development
In this era of globalization, the arena of professional practice is an
international one. Leaders must be adept at addressing issues that arise
both locally and globally. Issues of sustainability and the environment,
health, infrastructure, public finance, governance, role of nonprofits, eco-
nomic development, changing demographics, terrorism, and leadership
are increasingly important and transcend national boundaries.
Successful leaders must have the skills to address these issues
from an international and comparative perspective and
an understanding of the roles of national and local govern-
ments, non-governmental organizations, and private
businesses in different societies in solving these
increasingly complex problems.
SPPD ›› International Programs
Bringing global home Master of International Public Policy
and Management
The International Public Policy and Management (IPPAM)
program offers a Master of Public Policy and Management
(MPPM) designed for international students and U.S.
students working in international settings. This executive
program targets mid-career professionals with experience
in government, nonprofit agencies, or business firms
engaged in the design, planning, and management of
social programs and services.
Courses foster the critical thinking and problem-solving
skills needed to design creative policy solutions and man-
age programs. The 32-unit curriculum includes an 18-unit
core focused on economics, data analysis, policy analysis,
planning and management, and program evaluation. An
area of specialization is developed through 14 units of
electives. Specializations include: public sector manage-
ment, policy analysis methods, health management and
policy, educational planning and management, urban plan-
ning and infrastructure management, nonprofit manage-
ment, international development, and public policy com-
munication.
IPPAM begins in June and can be completed in 13 to
24 months of continuous, full-time study.
For more information, please visit usc.edu/sppd/ippam.
SPPD Dean in Taipei, Taiwan
27
International Program
s››u
sc.edu/sppd/about/international
Admission Deadlines
Summer – February 15 priority deadline
Summer – April 1 final deadline
Most students begin the IPPAM program in the summer. Fall
admission to IPPAM can be accommodated for those whose
organizations and governments require a fall start date.
International Labs
Each summer, the USC School of Policy, Planning,
and Development (SPPD) offers one or more international
labs, which allow students to put their knowledge into
practice by providing consulting services in a setting
outside the United States.
“It’s not a luxury anymore to have an international
fabric to your school,” says Jack H. Knott, dean of SPPD.
“It’s essential for the way we train students and the kind
of research we do.”
SPPD’s ongoing relationships with organizations that
span the globe enable the school to offer students unique,
multifaceted labs every year in locations like China,
Brazil, Italy, Costa Rica, and the United Kingdom.
Recent programs “brought global home” by sending
graduate students – across all of SPPD’s degree programs
– abroad to do research on either water pollution in
Foshan, China, or lessons learned from other Olympic
cities to make recommendations on how Brazil might bet-
ter prepare for the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics.
Short-Term International Executive Education
SPPD is equipped to provide executive training to foreign
government officials and managers from international
organizations. Individuals might enroll in courses and semi-
nars that are part of SPPD’s master’s degree programs and
tailor their specific program to their individual needs and
interests. Individuals may also participate in a program
specifically designed to meet the organization’s needs.
SPPD offers executive training in the following fields:
• Policy Analysis
• Infrastructure and Transportation
• Public Finance
• Health Policy
• Comparative and International Development
• Urban Planning and Development
Opportunities for Professional Development
and Mentoring
Because of our location in Los Angeles and in Sacramento,
SPPD has a long tradition of civic engagement within the
community, and many of our alumni are in key leadership
roles in public, private and nonprofit organizations that are
in close proximity to USC. SPPD, therefore, is in a position
to provide professional development and mentoring
opportunities to foreign officials participating in SPPD’s
international executive education programs.
IPPAM Program Characteristics*
Total Enrollment 58
Average Age 28
# New Students (Summer) 39
Average Years of Work Experience 6
* Academic Year 2010-11
“I chose SPPD because it crosses all different kinds of sectors – NGOs, nonprofits, government and private industry. It’s important to have an
integrated understanding.” – Kathryn Vasquez, IPPAM student
Dr. Joyce Mann, Director of International Education Programs
International Programs
In addition to offering traditional graduate and undergraduate degree
programs, the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development (SPPD)
offers an array of short-term and long-term executive educational
opportunities. Our programs instill a multidisciplinary and problem-
solving ethic, focus broadly and inclusively on the issues, constituencies,
structures, and institutions engaged in public life; encourage innovation,
entrepreneurship, experimentation, and collaboration; and emphasize
both a domestic and global perspective. SPPD’s executive
and leadership programs provide mid-level and
senior managers professional development opportunities
to advance in their careers and impact society.
SPPD ›› Executive and Leadership Programs
Advancing professional careers EXECUTIVE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Doctor of Policy, Planning, and Development
Planning and development professionals who work in the
public, private, and nonprofit sectors help shape our built
environment and improve quality of life for residents in
communities everywhere. Working within a complex sys-
tem of governance, they routinely partner with colleagues
across disciplines and professions to find place-based
solutions to specific planning and development problems.
SPPD’s Doctor of Policy, Planning, and Development
(DPPD) program prepares professionals for leadership in
planning and development positions in government agen-
cies, consulting firms, institutional investment firms, devel-
opment firms, and nonprofit organizations. The program
provides technological expertise and nurtures the vision
and creativity that students need to be effective leaders
of these organizations and institutions.
SPPD admits senior policy analysts and decision makers
within the public and private sectors who have mastered
planning and/or development skills. For these individuals,
the DPPD offers an opportunity to expand and deepen their
professional abilities and achievements without leaving
their current employment. Among the program’s goals are:
• Develop leading urban professionals who have the
capacity and vision to use their development and plan-
ning skills in the design, planning, and implementation
of new integrative policies and systems
• Create a unique educational environment that
allows senior managers and analysts to focus on
urban change
• Assist in establishing a set of new problem-solving para-
digms that can significantly influence the decision-mak-
ing environment in planning and development practice
29
Executive and Leadership Program
s››u
sc.edu/sppd/programs/em
l/
• Equip professionals not only with sophisticated analyti-
cal tools, but also with the sensitivity and cultural
awareness they need to occupy leadership positions in
planning and development anywhere in the world
For more information, please visit usc.edu/sppd/
programs/doctoral.
Admission Deadline
February 1
Executive Master of Leadership
The Executive Master of Leadership (EML) degree is
designed for professionals with five or more years of
significant management or leadership experience. The
EML teaches effective leadership practices through a
curriculum with three distinguishing features:
• Leadership through core values
• A multidisciplinary problem-solving approach
• Emphasis on transformational leadership that connects
the public, private, and nonprofit sectors
The degree is taken as a one-year, four-semester
program of seven courses for 28 units, with four required
core courses and three electives. Students can travel to
Los Angeles for in-person course work once a month
on weekends.
The core courses develop leadership practices across
five levels of skill development: individual, team, organiza-
tional, community, and institutional layers. They emphasize
action learning and experiential exercises to develop lead-
ership skills needed in complex, non-hierarchical, net-
worked environments that involve the public, nonprofit,
and private sectors. The three elective courses can be
taken in any policy or management area.
For more information, please visit usc.edu/sppd/eml.
Admission Deadline
February 1 (program begins in June)
Executive Master of Health Administration
The School of Policy, Planning, and Development offers
the Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA)
degree. Graduates of the EMHA are poised to advance or
transition their careers in health management and policy.
See page 20 for more information.
DPPD Program Characteristics*
Total Enrollment 43
% Minority 42%
% Female 47%
Average Age 42
# New Students (Fall) 13
Average Years of Work Experience 20
* Academic Year 2010-11
“One of the most important things was finding a program with a strong commitment to scholarly work and top-rated faculty. I found both at SPPD. And among the students, I found a wonderful sense of community.”
– Frederick Steinmann, DPPD ’10
Executive and Leadership Programs
30 USC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
Master of International Public Policy and
Management (IPPAM)
The School of Policy, Planning, and Development offers
the Master of International Public Policy and Management
degree. This executive program is for mid-career profes-
sionals with experience in government, nonprofit agencies
or business firms engaged in the design, planning, and
management of social programs and services. See page
26 for more information.
SHORT-TERM EXECUTIVE TRAINING
Short-Term Executive Leadership Programs
SPPD has a successful record of designing and delivering
quality leadership and management programs with a
multidisciplinary approach to develop skills needed at the
individual, group, organizational, community, and institu-
tional levels. In addition, our program emphasizes prac-
tices that facilitate working across varied departments
within agencies, and cross-sectoral problem solving with
the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
The programs address the complex challenges of organi-
zational leadership, customer-focused leadership, communi-
cation, decision making, and team and network building.
Our diverse presenters are nationally recognized
experts. The programs are designed so participants can
begin using lessons immediately in the workplace.
Recent programs include:
• National Conference of State Legislatures
• Sierra Health Foundation Leadership Program
• Southern California Association of Governments
• California Institute of Mental Health
• Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
• California Association of Counties
• Turkish Municipalities Association, Istanbul
For more information, please visit
usc.edu/sppd/leadership.
Short-Term International Executive Education
Programs
The School of Policy, Planning, and Development (SPPD)
provides executive training to foreign government officials
and managers from international organizations. See page
27 for more information.
EML Program Characteristics*
Total Enrollment 52
% Minority 58%
% Female 31%
Average Age 44
# New Students (Summer) 27
Average Years of Work Experience 22
* Academic Year 2011-12
Professor Bob Myrtle, Director of the Executive Master of Leadership Program
“The USC EML program did not just teach me leadership skills; the innovative curriculum
developed my leadership skills.”– Michael Grimaldi, EML ’09
Executive and Leadership Programs
Professors, scholars, and academic researchers in the fields of
policy, planning, and development produce work that is of the greatest
academic rigor even as it has a palpable impact on the world around us.
Through critical discourse and inquiry, field work, and theoretical training,
Ph.D. students examine issues of governance and contribute to
place-based solutions to problems that face communities everywhere
in the world. The USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development
(SPPD) offers Ph.D. programs in both Urban Planning
and Development, as well as in Public Policy
and Management.
SPPD ›› Ph.D. Programs
Impact through scholarship SPPD is renowned for its engaged faculty who mentor,
train, and inspire doctoral candidates to contribute to the
scholarly foundations of their chosen fields. SPPD faculty
help Ph.D. students publish and present their work at
conferences, and often co-author papers with them.
The school’s 11 research centers provide ready access
to research venues. Unique faculty-student workshops
support students in developing their research agendas.
Funding
All incoming Ph.D. students are fully supported for four
years through a graduate assistantship that provides for
tuition, stipends, and health and dental insurance.
Students beyond their fourth year of study are supported
through teaching or research assistantships, or funding
from USC or other outside sources.
Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy and
Management (Ph.D.)
The Ph.D. in Public Policy and Management (PPM) produces
researchers and scholars who provide innovative solutions
to societal problems and improve governance. Through a
rigorous core of institutional, policy, and management theo-
ry and strong methodological training, PPM students devel-
op the foundation to advance knowledge in public affairs.
Working closely with faculty mentors, PPM students devel-
op substantive expertise in core areas within the School of
Policy, Planning, and Development or within a related disci-
plinary field in another USC department. Examples include:
• Civic engagement
• Economic development
• Governance
• Health management and policy
• Homeland security
• International development
(continued on page 34)
Ph.D. Programs
“Having professors who are really available to exchange opinions and ask questions on the fly
provides more stimulation, and enhances creativity.” Elena Maggioni, Ph.D., ’11
34 USC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
• Network theory
• Nonprofits and philanthropy
• Social policy
• Sustainability and the environment
• Transportation and infrastructure
Research and teaching seminars along with faculty/student
workshops to support dissertation development ensure that
graduates are prepared for positions at leading research
universities and institutes throughout the U.S. and the world.
SPPD graduates hold tenure-track positions at the University
of Georgia, University of Kansas, University of Southern
California, University of Texas-Austin, City University of New
York, Peking University, Seoul National University and
research positions at the Public Policy Institute of California,
the USC Center for Risk and Economic Analysis of Terrorism
Events (federally funded Homeland Security Center) and
the Korean Institute for Public Administration.
Admission Deadline
December 1
For more information, please visit
usc.edu/sppd/programs/phd/.
Doctor of Philosophy in Urban Planning and
Development (Ph.D.)
The Ph.D. in Urban Planning and Development (UPD) pre-
pares students to be academics and scholars who
research contemporary urban problems, and contribute
new ideas and innovative solutions to the critical issues
facing communities here and abroad.
The majority of the world’s population now lives in cities;
and in 20 years, the total will swell to two-thirds. As the
specter of explosive urban growth looms, it also defines the
contemporary challenges in practice, such as: demand for
shelter; community livability; sustainable development;
infrastructure deficit; climate change; social equity and envi-
ronmental justice; and responding to the demographic
shifts of an aging and multicultural population. These chal-
lenges shape the frontiers of research and scholarship that
will engage doctoral students and faculty alike.
Through advanced theoretical core courses in critical
thinking, planning theory, urban development, and sound
methodology courses, doctoral students gain a strong foun-
dation from which to launch their scholarly career and
develop an area of expertise.
Building on the strengths of the faculty of the School
of Policy, Planning, and Development, UPD students may
focus on one of the following fields:
• Economic development
• Environment and sustainability
• Housing and real estate development
• International development
• Social and community planning
• Transportation and infrastructure
• Urban form and design
• Metropolitan and regional growth
The culture of the doctoral program requires participation in
research and teaching seminars, and presenting papers in
academic and professional conferences. Graduates of the
UPD program secure tenure-track and research positions
at leading research universities and institutes throughout
the U.S. and the world. SPPD graduates hold faculty posi-
tions at the University of California, Los Angeles; University
of Washington; University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign;
Korea Transportation Institute; University of Cincinnati;
University of California, Irvine, and Seoul National University.
Admission Deadline
December 1
For more information, please visit
usc.edu/sppd/programs/phd/.
Ph.D. Program Characteristics*
# New Students (Fall) 10
% Receiving Full Funding 100%
Average GPA 3.4
Average GRE 1388
* Academic Year 2010-11
Dr. Tridib Banerjee, Director, Graduate Programs in Urban
Planning (through December 2011), with Ph.D. student
Yiming Wang, who recently won the Springer Award for
outstanding paper in the field of regional science
Ph.D. Programs
“Having so many opportunities over the last few years to teach – and insuch different classes – has been a very important part of my time at SPPD.Working with different professors allows you to see a diversity of teachingstyles and methods; it helps in the process of honing your own approach.”
– Meredith Drake Reitan, Ph.D. ’10, Assistant Dean, USC Graduate School
The USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development (SPPD) offers
an exciting major – the Bachelor of Science in Policy, Planning, and
Development (PPD). This program educates future leaders and problem
solvers who care about the well-being and efficiency of our neighbor-
hoods, communities, cities, country, and the world.
The PPD program blends a strong liberal arts foundation with
professional competence. Students focus on one of our five tracks –
health policy and management, nonprofit and social
innovation, public policy and law, real estate
development, or sustainable planning.
SPPD ›› Undergraduate Program
Cultivating tomorrow’s leaders Dedicated to the notions of innovative governance, place-
based solutions, and healthy communities worldwide, the
Bachelor of Science in Policy, Planning, and Development
(PPD) appeals to students interested in managing and
leading public and private organizations; designing, build-
ing, and improving communities; protecting the environ-
ment; improving society’s health; and advocating for the
public good. Students go on to graduate school and/or
careers in government, healthcare, law, nonprofits, real
estate development, and urban planning.
The Bachelor of Science in Policy, Planning,
and Development
Pursuing the PPD degree provides students with a rigorous
and wide-ranging interdisciplinary undergraduate educa-
tion. Students engage in the analysis of society’s political,
social, and economic issues in areas such as the environ-
ment, urban life, and healthcare. Students interact closely
with faculty who are leading scholars and researchers in
37
Undergraduate Program
s››u
sc.edu/sppd/programs/undergraduate/
their fields, as well as with working professionals who are
some of the industry’s most accomplished practitioners.
Students may participate in networking nights, career
fairs and seminars, and information sessions with
prospective employers. PPD students receive career-plan-
ning guidance and attend résumé-writing and interviewing
workshops. They enjoy access to job listings in consulting
organizations, government, healthcare, nonprofits, plan-
ning, and private corporations.
Faculty, employers, and program advisors often remark
on the characteristics of the typical PPD student – strong
leadership abilities, intellectual curiosity, and a commit-
ment to improving people’s lives.
“When I think of SPPD students, I think of passion,” says
Professor David Sloane, director of undergraduate pro-
grams. “I’m constantly amazed by their willingness to take
chances and to do things to change the world.”
Undergraduate Washington, D.C. Semester Program
Undergraduate juniors and seniors can be eyewitnesses to
and participate in the decisions made in Washington, D.C.
that influence and affect all aspects of our lives. Offered in
partnership with George Washington University (GWU),
USC’s Washington Semester program offers undergradu-
ate students a unique learning, living, and internship
opportunity in the nation’s capital. Students earn up to
16 units of USC credit.
Progressive Degrees
For a select number of students in the PPD major, USC
offers the opportunity to complete a graduate master’s
degree while finishing their undergraduate degree. In five
years, they emerge with both degrees, ready to excel in
the professional workplace.
SPPD currently offers progressive degrees with the
Master of Health Administration, Master of Planning, and
Master of Public Administration.
For more information, please visit usc.edu/sppd/
undergraduate/progressive_degrees/.
Undergraduate Student Characteristics*
Total Enrollment 502
% Minority 48%
% Female 40%
Average Class Size (core) 32
Average Class Size (track) 25
Average Class Size (elective) 28
* Academic Year 2010-11
“This school is so interwoven into everything that happens in the university and the city. Opportunities are endless.”
– Alexene Farol, Progressive degree student (BS ’10, MPL)
Undergraduate Program
Professor David Sloane, left,Director of Undergraduate Programs
Beginning fall 2011, SPPD ushers in a new era in undergraduate education.
SPPD ›› Faculty
The faculty at the USC School of Policy, Planning, and
Development (SPPD) are an exceptionally accomplished
and diverse group of teachers and internationally recog-
nized scholars. In addition to educating tomorrow’s lead-
ers, SPPD faculty conduct research that engages real-
world problem solving and enriches the store of knowl-
edge in their fields. They publish in the most prestigious
journals, hold leadership positions in scholarly societies,
receive research funding from highly competitive grants,
and garner awards for their intellectual contributions.
SPPD faculty are committed to excellence in teaching.
Many faculty members teach at all three levels in the
school – bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral – and an equal
number teach courses in more than one discipline. Faculty
members have earned numerous awards for teaching,
and several of them have been recognized by USC’s
Center for Excellence in Teaching for their work mentoring
students and colleagues. Above all, faculty members
inspire values that reflect the school’s commitment to
bettering communities and improving the
quality of life for the people who live in them.
In addition to the faculty introduced in these pages,
SPPD seeks out community leaders, scholars, and profes-
sional practitioners who serve as adjunct faculty, bringing
their rich, varied perspectives and experiences into the
classroom.
38 USC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
Banerjee Bertelli Blanco
Caiden Cooper
Ferris Gioia
Green Greenwald Heikkila HoraGraddy
Kersten Knott Krieger LakdawallaHuesch
Boarnet Bostic
Currid-Halkett Esparza Falletta
Giuliano Goldman Gordon
39
Faculty››u
sc.edu/sppd/faculty
“SPPD students are among the most civically and politically engaged anywhere. And they are supported and encouraged by
like-minded colleagues and a strong, enthusiastic faculty.”– Sherry Bebitch Jeffe, Senior Fellow, USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development
Tridib BanerjeeJames Irvine Chair of Urban and RegionalPlanning; Director, Graduate Programs in Urban Planning (through December 2011)Urban design, comparative urbanism,
urban sprawl, Third-World urbanization,
planning theory
Anthony BertelliAssociate Professor; C.C. Crawford Chair in Management and PerformanceManagerial responsibility and accountability,
public management, law and administration
Hilda BlancoResearch Professor; Interim Director of the Center for Sustainable Cities;Professor Emeritus, Department of UrbanDesign and Planning, University of WashingtonSustainable cities, climate change and
cities, land policy, planning theory
Marlon Boarnet Professor; Director, Graduate Programs in Urban Planning (beginning January 2012)Transportation, travel behavior, urban growth
patterns, regional science, urban economics
Raphael BosticProfessorUrban development and economics,
housing policy
Gerald CaidenProfessorPublic administration, administrative theory,
administrative reform
Terry L. CooperMaria B. Crutcher Professor in Citizenship and Democratic ValuesAdministrative ethics, administrative
theory, citizen participation, neighborhood
organizations, role of citizens
Elizabeth Currid-HalkettAssistant ProfessorEconomic development, art and culture,
fashion, New York City, urban planning
Nicole EsparzaAssistant ProfessorOrganizational networks and theory, urban
sociology, homelessness, philanthropy
Liz FallettaTeaching Assistant ProfessorArchitecture, urban design, multi-family housing
James M. FerrisEmery Evans Olson Chair in NonprofitEntrepreneurship and Public Policy; Director,Center on Philanthropy and Public PolicyPhilanthropy, nonprofit economics, public
finance, public policy, institutional analysis
Dana GioiaJudge Widney Professor of Poetry and PublicCulture; Senior Fellow, the Harman-EisnerProgram in the Arts at the Aspen Institute Government cultural policy, arts entrepreneurship
and leadership, arts as economic development
Genevieve GiulianoMargaret and John Ferraro Chair in Effective Local Government; Senior Associate Dean for Research and Technology; Director, METRANSTransportation policy, metropolitan
spatial structure, travel demand,
urban transportation
Dana GoldmanProfessor; Norman Topping/National Medical Enterprises Chair inMedicine and Public Policy; Director, Leonard D. Schaeffer Center for HealthPolicy and EconomicsHealth economics and finance, health policy,
healthcare prevention, healthcare reform,
pharmaceutical regulation and innovation
Peter GordonProfessorReal estate development, urban economics,
regional economics, disaster costs
Elizabeth GraddyJeffrey J. Miller Chair in Government,Business, and the Economy; Vice DeanInstitutional economics, governance, nonprofit
organizations, industry structure
Richard K. GreenProfessor; Chair and Director, USC Lusk Center for Real EstateReal estate finance, housing markets,
housing policy, urban growth, tax policy
Howard GreenwaldProfessorHealth service delivery, organizational
behavior, survey design
Eric HeikkilaProfessor; Director, International InitiativesUrban development, economic development,
East Asian cities, urban economics, urban
information systems
Stephen HoraResearch Professor; Director, Center for Risk and Economic Analysis of TerrorismEvents (CREATE)Risk analysis, decision analysis, expert
judgment processes, statistical modeling,
simulation
Marco HueschAssistant Professor (beginning January 2012)Healthcare management processes,
corporate strategy, health services, provider
strategy, technology and information
management
Elizabeth KerstenClinical ProfessorFormer director, California State Senate
Office of Research
Jack H. KnottC. Erwin and Ione L. Piper Dean and ProfessorPolitical institutions and public policy,
health policy, and public management
Martin H. KriegerProfessorAural and photographic documentation
of Southern California, planning theory and
design theory, urban spatial processes
Darius LakdawallaAssociate Professor; Director of Research, Leonard D. Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and EconomicsEconomics of risks to health, organization
of healthcare markets
Faculty
40 USC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
LaVonna LewisTeaching ProfessorCultural competency, health status and
needs of underserved populations, racial
disparities in health
Daniel A. MazmanianBedrosian Chair in Governance; Director, USC Judith and John BedrosianCenter on Governance and the Public Enterprise21st century democratic institutions,
environmental governance, sustainable
communities, policy implementation
Daniel L. McFaddenNobel Laureate and USC PresidentialProfessor of Health EconomicsEconometrics, economic theory and
mathematical economics, health economics,
economic growth and development
Glenn MelnickBlue Cross of California Professor of Healthcare Finance; Director, Center onHealth Financing, Policy and ManagementHealth economics and finance, healthcare
systems, managed care
Leonard MitchellClinical Professor; Executive Director, Center for Economic DevelopmentEconomic development, community
development, finance
James Elliott Moore, IIProfessorEarthquake hazard mitigation, engineering
economics, transportation engineering,
urban transportation, infrastructure
Juliet MussoHouston Flournoy Professor of StateGovernment; Associate Director, Master of Public Administration Program in SacramentoFederalism, urban political economy,
fiscal policy, community governance,
neighborhood organizations
Dowell MyersProfessor; Director, Population Dynamics Research GroupDemographic change, future of California,
housing needs, immigration and assimilation,
urban growth
Robert C. MyrtleProfessor; Director, Executive Master of LeadershipHealthcare administration, interorganizational
relations, long-term care, organizational behavior
Chester A. NewlandFrances R. and John Duggan DistinguishedProfessor of Public AdministrationPublic administration, city management,
international development, executive
effectiveness, public law
Michael B. NicholProfessor; Director, Graduate Programs in HealthHealth policy, health economics, health-
care costs and resource utilization
Harry P. PachonProfessorLatino policy, immigration policy, information
technology, political behavior
Gary D. PainterProfessor; Director, Graduate Programs in Public PolicyPublic finance, education policy, urban
economics, housing economics, economics
of education, policy analysis
Mark PhillipsAssistant ProfessorPublic finance, tax compliance, policy
salience, applied microeconomics
Christian L. RedfearnAssociate Professor; Director, Graduate Programs in Real EstatePublic policy, urban economics,
housing markets, real estate finance
Harry RichardsonJames Irvine Chair in Urban and Regional PlanningMetropolitan spatial structure, urban travel
behavior, economic impact methodologies,
natural disaster modeling, man-made
disaster modeling
Peter RobertsonAssociate ProfessorOrganizational change, organizational
theory, ecological governance, collaborative
organizing, interorganizational collaboration,
organizational commitment
John A. RomleyResearch Assistant Professor; Economist, Leonard D. Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics Hospital industry, healthcare productivity/
efficiency, environmental
health disparities
Adam RoseResearch Professor; Coordinator forEconomics, Center for Risk and EconomicAnalysis of Terrorism EventsEnergy and environmental economics,
public policy, natural hazards and terrorism,
regional science, applied general equilibrium
modeling
Jenny SchuetzAssistant ProfessorLand use, regulation, real estate and
urban policy
Lisa SchweitzerAssociate ProfessorTransportation planning, environmental
justice
David C. SloaneProfessor; Director, Undergraduate ProgramsUrban history, community health planning,
health disparities, cultural landscapes
David SuarezAssistant ProfessorNonprofit and public management
Roberto SuroProfessor; Director, Tomas Rivera Policy InstituteImmigration, demography, digital media
and civic engagement
Shui Yan TangProfessor; Director, Master of PublicAdministration ProgramEnvironmental policy, organizational
commitment, institutional analysis, microcredit,
common-pool resources
“SPPD is really about the students. We take good care of our students.They're not going to be at a loss; they're going to have help.”– Nancy Burke, Adjunct Instructor, Senior Land Use/Entitlements Manager, Kaiser Permanente National Facilities Service
William TroostTeaching Assistant ProfessorEconomic history, labor economics,
education, race and gender
Christopher WeareResearch Associate ProfessorPublic policy, participatory democracy,
social networks and civil society, municipal
governance
Dan WeiResearch Assistant ProfessorEconomic impact of greenhouse gas,
mitigation policies, economic impact of
business interruptions
Detlof von WinterfeldtProfessorDecision analysis, risk analysis, environmental
policy, behavioral decision research, homeland
security
Vivian WuAssistant ProfessorHealth economics, managed care, public
insurance programs, healthcare financing
41
Faculty››u
sc.edu/sppd/faculty
McFadden MelnickLewis Mazmanian Mitchell Moore
MyrtleMusso Myers Newland Nichol Pachon
RedfearnPainter Phillips Richardson Robertson Romley
SchweitzerRose Schuetz Sloane Suarez Suro
von Winterfeldt WuWeiTang Troost Weare
“SPPD is exactly the type of environment where innovation occurs — a place where people care about ideas, each other, and the opportunity
to do research that contributes to making life better.” – Lisa Schweitzer, Associate Professor
Faculty
42 USC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
Scholarship That Matters
The USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development
(SPPD) is renowned for both its capacity to apply expertise
from multiple fields to a single issue and the depth of its
contributions from each field. Its research provides vital
data to important academic disciplines and helps shape
real-world solutions.
SPPD faculty rank third at USC in terms of per capita
research grants – a reflection of both faculty productivity
and the quality of research. In 2010-11, SPPD’s external
funding totaled $33 million.
Central to SPPD’s work are the research and activities
conducted through its research centers, institutes, and
initiatives:
USC Bedrosian Center on Governance and the
Public Enterprise strives to understand and promote
democratic governance in the United States and across
the world. usc.edu/sppd/bedrosian
Center for Economic Development assists local
economic development organizations by providing techni-
cal assistance and training services for organizations to
help develop community capacity. usc.edu/sppd/ced
Center on Philanthropy and Public Policy promotes
more effective philanthropy and strengthens the nonprofit
sector through research that informs philanthropic deci-
sion making and public policy to advance public problem
solving. usc.edu/sppd/cppp
Center for Sustainable Cities engages in multidiscipli-
nary research and education on the environmental, social,
and economic sustainability challenges facing metropoli-
tan regions. usc.edu/sppd/csc/
Keston Institute for Public Finance and Infrastructure
Policy seeks to actively address the economic, financial,
and demographic dimensions of public infrastructure
development. usc.edu/sppd/keston
Lusk Center for Real Estate is dedicated to expanding
real estate knowledge, enlightening business practice, and
confronting challenges that impact the real estate industry,
the urban economy, and public policy. usc.edu/sppd/lusk
National Center for Risk and Economic Analysis of
Terrorism Events (CREATE) enhances national security
through forging models and tools for the analysis of the
risks, costs, and impacts of terrorism by implementing
reasonable investments in homeland security.
usc.edu/sppd/create
National Center for Metropolitan Transportation
Research (METRANS) seeks to solve transportation
problems of large metropolitan areas through multidiscipli-
nary research, education, and outreach. usc.edu/sppd/
metrans
Population Dynamics Research Group employs
census data, population forecasts, and self-produced
California Demographic Futures to promote policies
aimed at improving the human condition.
usc.edu/sppd/research/popdynamics/
Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics
uses evidence to challenge assumptions, advance policy,
and reshape healthcare by promoting health and value in
healthcare delivery in the United States and internationally.
usc.edu/sppd/research/centers/schaeffer.html
The Tomas Rivera Policy Institute (TRPI), a nationally
recognized policy and research institute, conducts analy-
ses related to Hispanic and other low-income minority
groups. usc.edu/sppd/research/centers/trpi.html
For more information, please visit
usc.edu/sppd/research.
SPPD ›› Research “My research at the Center on Philanthropy and Public Policy helped me improve my quantitative analysis skills as well as increase my knowledge of the foundation
industry and the role of philanthropy as an important aspect of public policy.” – Jeffrey Glenn, MPA, ’10
“The variety of projects create a lot of opportunities for students who are interested in studying land use and transportation from different angles. Students get a very rich research experience.”
– Ajay Agarwal, MPL ’03, Ph.D. ’09
This display of maps chartscultural activity or “buzz” in L.A. and New York, basedon research co-authored by Elizabeth Currid-Halkett,SPPD assistant professor.
Research
SPPD ›› Distance Learning: Online Degrees and Certificates
The School of Policy, Planning, and Development (SPPD)
offers one graduate degree program, two graduate certifi-
cate programs, and approximately 10 graduate courses
per year in a distance learning format. SPPD ensures that
distance education students retain the strong sense of
community that is a hallmark among all SPPD programs.
The online programs include video conferencing, rich
media, online social networking, and individual e-mail
communications with the professors.
Online Master of Public Administration Program
For the first time, SPPD brings its distinguished Master of
Public Administration (MPA) program into the distance
learning arena. The online degree program was designed
and developed with the working professional in mind —
combining the world-class faculty instruction and compre-
hensive focus of SPPD’s traditional MPA with the conven-
ience and portability of distance learning.
Thanks to the SPPD distance learning technologies, stu-
dents can enjoy the value of real-time collaboration that is
familiar, and valued, in its traditional MPA program. The
online MPA offers the opportunity to share without the
constraints of common schedules — students can post
questions and observations any time of day.
For more information, please visit publicadmin.usc.edu.
Certificate in Homeland Security and Public Policy
This graduate certificate develops and refines risk analysis
skills and provides students with the knowledge needed to
understand the increasingly important issues of homeland
security and public policy.
For more information, please visit usc.edu/sppd/
certificate/homeland_security.
Distance Education››u
sc.edu/sppd/programs/distance_learning
Certificate in Administration of Long Term
Care Programs
Through this certificate program, students gain an
overview of the problems and issues in the health field, an
understanding and appreciation of the nuances of manag-
ing facilities for older adults, and management skills.
For more information, please visit usc.edu/sppd/
certificate/longterm_care.
“SPPD provided me with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by offering the international lab course via distance learning. Otherwise, I could not have participated or traveled to China with the class.”
– Cinnamon Rackley, MPA '10
44 USC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
SPPD ›› USC State Capital Center
45
USC State Capital Center››u
sc.edu/sacto
For 40 years, the USC School of Policy, Planning, and
Development (SPPD) has offered graduate degree and exec-
utive leadership programs in Sacramento. Courses provide
knowledge and skills for leadership in administration, policy-
making, and advocacy, with a focus on state government.
Studying in the State Capital
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program allows
students to complete their degrees entirely at the USC
State Capital Center in Sacramento or in combination with
courses at the Los Angeles University Park campus. Some
SPPD students studying in Los Angeles may take select
courses at the State Capital Center in Sacramento.
Expert Faculty
Many of the faculty are practitioners in Sacramento as
well as experts in their fields. Full-time and adjunct profes-
sors include Kevin Starr, USC University Professor and
California State Librarian Emeritus; Tim Gage, former direc-
tor, California Department of Finance; Elisabeth Kersten,
former director, California Senate Office of Research;
Robert Ingenito, manager, Research and Statistics Section,
California Board of Equalization; Jon Brown, president of
the Association of Independent California Colleges and
Universities; and Charlene Simmons, assistant director,
General Law and Government, California Research Bureau.
While building a professional network of faculty, col-
leagues, classmates, and alumni in the seat of California
state government, Sacramento students enjoy all of the
resources of a major research university.
For more information, please visit usc.edu/sacto.
“The USC State Capital Center has been a great experience for me, as a graduate studentwho needed flexibility. The intensive format allows for the perfect blend of rigorous
content and a reasonable semester schedule. I've been fortunate enough to be able tostructure my studies around my full-time job and volunteer work in the Bay Area.”
– Carissa Lubeck, MPA ’11
USC State Capital Center
Dr. Juliet Musso, Flournoy Professor of State Government
and Associate Director, MPA in Sacramento
A distinguishing attribute of the School of Policy, Planning,
and Development (SPPD) is its Career Services Office,
which is available to all graduate and undergraduate stu-
dents at SPPD.
The Career Services Office maintains strong connections
to the community of practice — affording students (and
alumni) unique opportunities to interact with and learn
from professional and community leaders representing a
wide variety of fields.
The SPPD Career Services Office offers a number of
professional development programs, career workshops,
and events. Some of the programs and services offered
include:
• Career Advisement
• Career Workshops
• Career Fair/Networking Nights
• Professional Mentoring Program
• Externship Program
• Internship/Residency Programs
• Jobs, Internships and Fellowship Database
• Information Sessions/On-Campus Interviews
SPPD ›› Career Services and Alumni
46 USC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
The Career Services Office makes it easy for students to network with professionals in their fields as well as to attend stimulating career workshops and networking
nights to learn about different careers. The Professional Mentoring and Externship programs assist students in defining and testing their career aspirations.
Tom Kribben, Director of Career Services
Left: Last fall, Career Services hosted the SPPD
Public/Nonprofit Career Fair, featuring more than 75
exhibitors — including representatives from local, state,
and federal government, as well as local, national, and
international nonprofit organizations.
The Trojan Family
The SPPD Career Services Office works closely with
SPPD alumni throughout the world — an unparalleled
global network known as the USC “Trojan Family.”
Each year, our graduates become part of a thriving
community of more than 16,000 SPPD alumni in all 50
states and the District of Columbia within the United
States, and in more than 40 countries around the world.
SPPD graduates make a vital difference in the world,
and the Career Services Office is committed to helping
students and alumni achieve their goals.
For more information, please visit
usc.edu/sppd/careers.
“I did an SPPD internship at the GovernmentAccountability Office in Washington, D.C., and was able to connect with many D.C. Trojan alumni.”
– Robert Fukumoto, MPP ’10
“The USC network is amazing — people are so willing to help you out, give you guidance, and open up their life experiences to you.”
– Henry Ammar, Bachelor of Science student, Real Estate Development track
Career Services and Alumni
48 USC SCHOOL OF POLICY, PLANNING, AND DEVELOPMENT
SPPD Students
Students in the School of Policy, Planning, and Development
(SPPD) currently number 1,500. They are talented, diverse,
and come from throughout the United States and around
the world. At present, 38 states, the District of Columbia,
and 37 countries are represented in SPPD’s student body.
• 42% are from underrepresented groups
• 38% are from outside the Southern California region
• 14% are from foreign countries
• 48% are female
Most of the graduate students enter SPPD with two to
five years of work experience in their respective fields.
Those entering the executive programs typically have
10-20 years of experience.
Backgrounds of SPPD students include legislative staff
members, city council members, real estate developers,
healthcare professionals, architects, foreign government
officials, Peace Corps volunteers, physicians, teachers,
foundation staff members, engineers, researchers, and
professionals from community-based organizations,
among others.
SPPD Student Associations:
SPPD has 11 active student associations that are an
integral part of the cultural and intellectual fabric of SPPD.
Student organizations range from field-specific organiza-
tions to cross-cultural organizations, and provide unique
opportunities for students to expand academic, profes-
sional, and social networks.
The 2010-11 SPPD student associations are:
Asian Pacific Islander Caucus (APIC) Constituents:
School of Policy, Planning, and Development students
interested in Asian and Pacific Islander issues
Associated Students of Planning and Development
(ASPD) Constituents: Graduate and undergraduate
students in planning
Association of Black Students in Policy, Planning,
and Development Constituents: School of Policy,
Planning, and Development students interested in Black
and African American issues
Graduate Policy and Administration Community
(GPAC) Constituents: Master of Public Administration
(MPA) and Master of Public Policy (MPP) students
Graduate Real Estate Association (GREA)
Constituents: Graduate students in real estate develop-
ment in SPPD and the Marshall School of Business
IPPAM Graduate Student Association Constituents:
Students in the Master of International Public Policy
and Management program
Latino Association of Policy, Planning, and
Development (LAPPD) Constituents: School of Policy,
Planning, and Development students interested
in Latino issues
Partnership for an Equitable Los Angeles (PELA)
Constituents: School of Policy, Planning, and Development
students interested in policy and planning research
and advocacy
SPPD Doctoral Students (SPUDS) Constituents:
Doctoral students
Student Health Council (SHC) Constituents: Master of
Health Administration (MHA) students, and undergraduate
and doctoral students emphasizing health administration
Trojan Real Estate Association (TREA) Constituents:
Undergraduate students in real estate development in
SPPD and the Marshall School of Business
Undergraduates of Policy, Planning, and
Development (UPPD) Constituents: Undergraduate
students
USC Planners Network Constituents: Graduate and
undergraduate students in planning
SPPD ›› Students and Student Associations “At SPPD, it really does feel like a family. Students andprofessors are willing to work with you and do all they
can to help you excel to the best of your ability.”– Lauryn Pollard, Progressive degree student (BS ’11, MPA)
Carol Rush, Associate Dean for
Student Affairs
For more information, please contact:
USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0626
www.usc.edu/sppd
Produced by the USC School of
Policy, Planning, and Development, 2011.
FSC LOGO TK FROM PRINTER