Washington University in St Louis (WashU) vs University of Southern California (USC)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) and the University of Southern California (USC)?

  WashU and USC are both prestigious universities, but they differ significantly in location, campus culture, and academic focus. WashU, located in St. Louis, Missouri, offers a more traditional, academically focused environment with a strong emphasis on research and a close-knit campus community. USC, situated in Los Angeles, California, provides a vibrant, urban experience with strong connections to the entertainment industry and a more diverse student body. USC is generally considered to have a stronger presence in fields like film, communication, and business, while WashU excels in medicine, engineering, and social sciences. The cost of living also differs significantly, with St. Louis being generally more affordable than Los Angeles.

• Which university is better for students interested in film and media?

  USC is widely recognized as having one of the top film schools in the world. Its location in Los Angeles provides unparalleled access to internships, networking opportunities, and industry professionals. While WashU offers programs in film and media, USC's School of Cinematic Arts has a much stronger reputation and broader range of resources in this field.

• How do WashU and USC compare in terms of research opportunities?

  Both WashU and USC are major research universities with extensive funding and opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. WashU has a particularly strong reputation in medical research, engineering, and social sciences, with numerous research centers and institutes on campus. USC also boasts significant research activity across various disciplines, including engineering, medicine, and the humanities, and benefits from its proximity to various industries in Southern California. Both universities actively encourage undergraduate research participation.

• What is the campus environment like at WashU versus USC?

  WashU has a more self-contained, traditional campus environment. The campus is beautiful and walkable, fostering a strong sense of community among students. USC, being located in the heart of Los Angeles, offers a more urban and diverse campus experience. Students at USC have easy access to a wide range of cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and professional opportunities. The campus is also large and active, reflecting the energy of the city.

• How do the costs of attending WashU and USC compare?

  The sticker prices for tuition at WashU and USC are generally comparable. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary significantly due to differences in living expenses. St. Louis has a lower cost of living than Los Angeles, particularly in terms of housing. Therefore, students at WashU may find their overall expenses to be lower than those at USC. Both universities offer financial aid and scholarships to eligible students, so it's important to explore those options when considering the affordability of each institution.

• Which university is more selective in its admissions process?

  Both WashU and USC are highly selective universities with competitive admissions processes. Their acceptance rates are generally similar, reflecting the high caliber of applicants they attract. Factors considered in admissions include academic record, standardized test scores (though many programs are test-optional), extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. The specific requirements and preferences may vary slightly between programs and schools within each university.

• What are the strengths of WashU's engineering program compared to USC's?

  WashU's McKelvey School of Engineering is known for its strong focus on research and innovation, particularly in areas like biomedical engineering, environmental engineering, and computer science. It offers a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment, encouraging students to work on cutting-edge projects. USC's Viterbi School of Engineering is also highly regarded, with strengths in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. USC benefits from its location in Southern California, providing access to internships and collaborations with leading technology companies. The 'better' program depends on the specific engineering discipline a student is interested in.

• How do WashU and USC compare in terms of diversity?

  USC generally has a more diverse student body than WashU, particularly in terms of racial and ethnic representation. USC's location in Los Angeles, a major metropolitan area with a large international population, contributes to its diverse student population. WashU is actively working to increase diversity on its campus and has made progress in recent years. Both universities offer various programs and initiatives to support students from diverse backgrounds.

• Which school is better for pre-med students?

  Both WashU and USC are excellent choices for pre-med students. WashU has a particularly strong reputation in medicine, with its renowned medical school and affiliated hospitals providing ample research and clinical opportunities. USC's Keck School of Medicine is also highly regarded, and its location in Los Angeles offers diverse clinical experiences. Ultimately, the 'better' school depends on individual preferences and the specific resources and opportunities that align with a student's goals. Consider factors like research interests, desired clinical settings, and campus culture when making your decision.

• What kind of student typically thrives at WashU versus USC?

  A student who thrives at WashU is typically academically driven, enjoys a close-knit community, and appreciates a more traditional campus environment. They are often interested in research and value a strong faculty-student relationship. A student who thrives at USC is typically outgoing, enjoys a vibrant urban environment, and is drawn to the entertainment industry and diverse cultural opportunities. They are often entrepreneurial and value networking and real-world experience.