Graduate Programs

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Graduate Degree Overview

The Marshall School of Business prepares men and women to become leaders at every level of management. Today’s successful businesses demand flexibility, innovation, creativity, teamwork and leadership from their employees. The Marshall School’s goal is to help students meet those demands through a rigorous grounding in all functional areas of business and the honing of analytical and interpersonal skills required to address real business problems.

The more than 185 faculty members at the school include authorities recognized around the world for their contributions to business theory and practice. They are also distinguished by their dedication to teaching excellence.

The Marshall School of Business offers seven graduate degrees: The Master of Business Administration (MBA), the Master of Science (MS) in Business Administration, Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Finance, Global Supply Chain Management and Social Entrepreneurship, the Master of Business for Veterans (MBV), the Master of Management in Library and Information Science (MMLIS), the Master of Management Studies (MMS), the Master of Medical Management (MMM) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). The Marshall School jointly sponsors a Master of Long Term Care Administration. Graduate certificates in supply chain management, financial analysis and valuation, technology commercialization, management studies, business fundamentals for non-business professionals, library and information management and sustainability and business are also offered.

Admission Requirements

A bachelor’s degree equivalent to a four-year U.S. undergraduate degree from an accredited institution (regardless of field or major) is required for admission to any master’s degree program at the Marshall School of Business.

Successful performance in Marshall master’s programs requires computer proficiency in word processing, database management, electronic spreadsheets and business graphics. Following admission, Marshall Instructional Technology Services is available for additional preparation. Knowledge of calculus is a prerequisite to some of the courses offered by the Marshall School of Business.

All applicants are required to submit the following documents: (1) completed application form; (2) a nonrefundable application fee; (3) responses to required essay questions; (4) history of full- and part-time work experience or resume; (5) one official transcript from the registrar of each college or university attended (undergraduate and postgraduate, if applicable) whether the degree was completed or not. If all college or postgraduate work has not been completed, transcripts must be sent again when work in progress is completed and the degree posted. Transcripts written in languages other than English must be accompanied by a certified English translation; if transcripts do not include a degree conferral date, degrees must be verified through WES or IERF; and (6) letters of recommendation. (7) Most programs require Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. Applicants must have taken the examination prior to submitting an application. It is recommended that unofficial copies of test scores be submitted as uploaded documents with the application in addition to having official scores sent to USC. (8) All international students who did not earn a bachelor’s degree from a college or university in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia or New Zealand must submit recent scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE). Official test scores are sent by the testing services directly to USC, and unofficial copies can be uploaded as attachments to the application. Additionally, proof of financial support is required of admitted international applicants.

To ensure a place in a program and adequate time to receive an admission decision, it is important to send completed application materials well in advance of the semester for which the applicant wishes to register. For the non-traditional student, if work is still in progress to complete a bachelor’s degree, the applicant must state specifically what courses are in progress, what must be done to finish and the estimated date of completion. Admission is contingent upon official verification of a bachelor’s degree.

In their review of applications, admissions committees consider all of the applicant’s completed academic work, test score, evidence of leadership and motivation, letters of recommendation, level of job responsibility and work history, and unique talents and contributions. Applicants are reviewed on their potential for successful performance in graduate business studies and their competitiveness within the current applicant pool.

Additional program-specific admission criteria are detailed below and available on each program’s Website. Links are available at marshall.usc.edu/masters.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

MBA students gain an understanding of the forces confronting business around the world and are encouraged to take an active role in making a difference — to seek out opportunities for personal and professional growth and to empower others in the pursuit of shared goals. The Master of Business Administration is offered through five distinct programs.

While the five programs are designed to meet the needs of different types of students, all programs have the same goals: providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective leaders; developing a thorough understanding of business fundamentals such as economics, accounting, finance, marketing and operations; and refining basic skills, such as use of information systems and statistical analysis. Each student is challenged to develop self-understanding and an appreciation for the complexities of organizations.

Full-time MBA Program

The Marshall MBA program is designed for individuals who can leave the world of work and immerse themselves “full time” in two years of graduate education. It provides a foundation for success that balances theory with real-world application.

During the first year, a “hands-on” approach to leadership and business education combines case analysis, management simulations, executive seminars and international travel with traditional methods for establishing a conceptual understanding of the general management role in a global context. Elective options in the second semester allow students to complement the core curriculum with individualized interests. Summer internships help students apply their knowledge in practice and prepare for the job market.

In year two, students continue to chart their own course of study. A wide array of elective courses offers students immersion in specific functional areas, disciplines and industries. The selection allows students to gain an indepth understanding of a particular subject or to continue to pursue a broad-based management education. See the Full-time MBA Program .

Part-time MBA Program for Professionals and Managers

The MBA Program for Professionals and Managers (MBAPM) allows fully employed individuals to pursue an MBA degree while continuing their career development. Students can pursue the first year of study at the University Park Campus or at the USC Orange County Center in Irvine. Elective course work is completed mainly on the University Park Campus. The curriculum, offered in the evening, is similar to the curriculum offered to full-time MBA students but is modified to allow completion of the program in 33 months. See the MBA Program for Professionals and Managers .

Online MBA Program

The Online MBA (OMBA) program enables students to develop expertise in business administration, management and leadership through a rigorous course of study, most of which is delivered using flexible online technologies. The program content covers business fundamentals including accounting, economics, finance, data sciences, marketing, management, operations and entrepreneurship; communication and analytics training are interwoven with the entire program. The program takes advantage of distinctive educational opportunities offered by online technologies, both in terms of teaching methods and content and helps students to increase their effectiveness as business leaders, corporate managers and entrepreneurs.

The program is structured so that it can be completed in as little as 21 months. Students can work through much of the material on a flexible schedule customized to their own needs, making the program especially convenient to students who are currently employed and wish to remain at their jobs while enrolled. Content is delivered by faculty members with strong backgrounds in practice and research from different disciplines teaching in a team format to integrate understanding of business fundamentals, internal and external operations, business environments and leadership. See the Online MBA Program .

Executive MBA Program

The Executive MBA program provides those with significant work experience, particularly mid- to senior-level professionals who have high potential as business and industry leaders, a chance to complete an MBA on Fridays and Saturdays over a two-year period without interrupting their careers. The program is offered on the University Park Campus in downtown Los Angeles as well as in San Diego.

This program uses a non-traditional, interdisciplinary approach to executive and management education through “themes” that integrate various functional areas and address classic, yet dynamic business issues.

Through the integrated curriculum, participants develop a complete understanding of decision-making, a focus on the future and the international context of business as well as strong interpersonal, leadership and analytical skills. More specifically, participants achieve advanced skills in corporate and international finance, marketing, environmental and strategic analysis, information technology, organizational leadership, managerial communication and corporate relations.

Core faculty include the school’s most senior, experienced members as well as nationally renowned academic and business specialists. The program includes three residential off-site experiences — two domestic and one international. See the Executive MBA Program .

International MBA Program (IBEAR MBA)

The IBEAR MBA is a mid-career international MBA emphasizing trade and investment in and between the Americas and Asia in particular. Participants complete the equivalent of two years of intensive MBA study and return to their careers in 12 months.

In addition to an internationalized set of core courses, the program includes elective course offerings on international management, international financial management, global e-business, global marketing strategy, international trade, politics for global management and global strategy.

The program features a two-term international business consulting project, a cross-cultural team-building retreat, a visiting international expert speaker series and participation in Marshall’s annual Asia/Pacific Business Outlook Conference.

IBEAR MBA graduates join a network of well-placed alumni in more than 50 nations. See the International MBA Program .

Global Executive MBA Program (GEMBA)

The Global Executive MBA program (GEMBA) in Shanghai is designed for rising business leaders throughout East Asia and the Pacific Rim who seek a U.S.-style business education with a global perspective. GEMBA provides a unique opportunity for networking and personal development within the framework of an increasingly competitive Asian market.

GEMBA mirrors the long-standing Marshall Executive MBA program, employing a nontraditional, interdisciplinary and integrated approach to executive and management education through “themes” that integrate various functional areas and address classic, yet dynamic business issues.

Core faculty include the school’s most senior, experienced members as well as renowned academic and business specialists.

Through the integrated curriculum, participants develop a complete understanding of decision-making, a focus on the future and the international context of business as well as strong interpersonal, leadership and analytical skills. More specifically, participants achieve advanced skills in corporate and international finance, marketing, environmental and strategic analysis, information technology, organizational leadership, managerial communication and corporate relations.

USC Marshall offers GEMBA in partnership with the Antai College of Economics and Management at Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China. Because classes meet in both Shanghai and Los Angeles, students must be able to participate fully in the travel requirements of the program. Classes are taught in English. See the Global Executive MBA Program .

Dual MBA Degree Programs

Students may complete dual degrees in conjunction with the Marshall MBA, MBAPM or IBEAR MBA programs.

Admission criteria for applicants to dual degree programs co-sponsored by the Marshall School of Business are the same as Master of Business Administration program admission criteria.

Students interested in dual degree programs should apply to the specific MBA program suited to the individual’s needs.

Dual degree programs offer graduate students the opportunity to complete concurrently the requirements for two degrees. The Marshall School offers the MBA in conjunction with a number of other programs at USC:

• Juris Doctor/Master of Business Administration (JD/MBA)
• Master of Business Administration/Master of Arts in East Asian Area Studies (MBA/MA)
• Master of Business Administration/Master of Planning (MBA/MPl)
• Master of Business Administration/Master of Real Estate Development (MBA/MRED)
• Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Gerontology (MBA/MS)
• Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering (MBA/MS)
• Master of Business Administration/Doctor of Education (MBA/EdD)
• Master of Business Administration/Doctor of Medicine (MBA/MD)
• Master of Business Administration/Doctor of Pharmacy (MBA/PharmD)
• Master of Business Administration/Master of Arts in Jewish Nonprofit Management (MBA/MA)
• Master of Business Administration/Master of Social Work (MBA/MSW)

Master of Management Studies (MMS)

The Master of Management Studies is designed to provide students who have completed graduate business course work equivalent to the first year of a traditional two-year MBA program with an opportunity to pursue further studies at the USC Marshall School of Business. The program is especially valuable for those who have completed the first year of a traditional MBA at another institution and those who completed one-year MBA programs and wish to enhance their knowledge in specialized areas of business. The degree can be completed on either a full- or part-time basis, and classes are available during both daytime and evening hours. See Management Studies (MMS) .

Master of Science in Business Administration (MS)

The Master of Science in Business Administration is designed to provide students with an opportunity to pursue an area of specialization subsequent to successfully completing the Master of Business Administration (MBA). The program is especially valuable for those who wish to enhance their knowledge base in a specialized area of business. In cooperation with a faculty member, the student in this program designs a course of study to meet his or her individual needs. The degree can be completed on either a full- or part-time basis, and classes are available during both daytime and evening hours. See Business Administration (MS) .

Master of Science in Business Research (MS)

The Master of Science in Business Research is designed to provide an alternative for Marshall PhD students. Marshall does not accept applications for admission to this program. See Business Research (MS) .

Master of Science in Business Analytics

The Master of Science in Business Analytics is designed for managers who want to develop their analytical skills and recent college graduates with strong analytical skills who are interested in pursuing a career in business analytics. The program provides students with tools, ideas and frameworks that will aid them in making business decisions in a scientific manner, based on actual data, to improve the performance of their organization. See Business Analytics (MS) .

Master of Medical Management (MMM)

This program is designed for physicians in the medical field who wish to gain formal business knowledge and develop critical thinking skills. Significant project and course work is completed primarily through distance learning venues. The program consists of four one-week intensive residential sessions. See Medical Management (MMM) .

Master of Long Term Care Administration

This program is designed to prepare competent individuals to administer the long term needs of America’s elderly population. It is jointly offered by the USC Davis School of Gerontology, the Marshall School of Business, and the USC Price School of Public Policy. For information, see the USC Davis School of Gerontology .

Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Innovation (MS)

The Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Innovation is designed to develop the entrepreneurial knowledge, skill sets, and decision-making frameworks required to recognize and evaluate business opportunities and to create and guide a new entrepreneurial entity either individually or within a larger organization. The program is intended for students seeking to pursue careers in entrepreneurship, corporate venturing and innovation, or technology commercialization. The degree can be completed on either a full-time basis in one year or on a part-time basis over two years, and classes are offered primarily at night to accommodate the needs of working professionals. For more information see Entrepreneurship and Innovation (MS) .

Master of Science in Finance (MS)

The Master of Science in Finance is designed to provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to become experts in finance and thus advance their careers in business. The program is exceptionally well suited to individuals completing a bachelor’s degree who are seeking an opportunity to continue their studies at USC for one year and earn a master’s degree in finance before entering the work force. It is also well suited to those who have earned or soon will earn a master’s degree and wish to earn a second master’s degree. For more information see Finance (MS) .

Master of Science in Global Supply Chain Management (MS) for Executives (Online)

The Marshall School of Business offers individuals across the U.S. and around the world an opportunity to expand their knowledge of management of the ever-changing world of global supply chains. The program provides managers with tools, ideas and frameworks that will aid them in improving the performance of the global supply chains that they manage. Courses are broadcast via distance learning technologies so that, with the exception of two international travel experiences, the degree can be completed through the Internet. Additional in-person instructional activities are provided at partner institutions. Two international travel experiences to global distribution hubs are included in the program. In-person midterms and final exams may be required for some courses, in which case they will be administered in cities near student population concentrations. See Global Supply Chain Management for Executives (MS) (Online) .

Master of Science in Global Supply Chain Management (MS) (On-Campus)

The Marshall School of Business, jointly with the Viterbi School of Engineering, offers individuals an opportunity to expand their knowledge of the management of global supply chains. The program focuses on teaching the necessary knowledge and skills in areas like inventory management; sustainable supply chains; strategic procurement; outsourcing; logistics and distribution; information technology and its role in managing global supply chains; and supply chain optimization. This 27-unit on-campus program can be completed on a full-time basis in one calendar year. See Global Supply Chain Management (On‑Campus/Residential) (MS) .

Master of Science in Marketing (MS)

The Master of Science in Marketing is designed to develop an in-depth knowledge of relevant and innovative marketing skills and techniques for prospective students interested in pursuing a career in marketing or enhancing their existing marketing career. The degree can be completed on full-time basis in one calendar year or part-time. Classes are available during both daytime and evening hours. For more information see Marketing (MS) .

Master of Science in Social Entrepreneurship (MS)

The Master of Science in Social Entrepreneurship gives students the opportunity to learn business and entrepreneurship skills within a framework of combining both financial and social missions. The program can be completed in one year (full-time students) or two or more years (part-time students). Courses are offered on the University Park Campus in downtown Los Angeles in the evenings and on weekends. For more information see Social Entrepreneurship (MS) .

Master of Business for Veterans (MBV)

This program is designed for veterans who wish to gain formal business knowledge and develop critical thinking skills to manage or grow a business. Significant project and course work is completed during the two-semester program. Class sessions meet over 16 full-day sessions each semester, offered on the University Park Campus in downtown Los Angeles. See Business for Veterans (MBV) .

Master of Management in Library and Information Science (MMLIS)

The Master of Management in Library and Information Science program is designed to educate professional librarians for leadership from every level of the organization in academic, urban and corporate environments. Graduates will identify and analyze critical issues and leverage resources and expertise to build community assets. The program is taught entirely online. See Library and Information Science (MMLIS) .

Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics

The Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics is designed for individuals who want to develop the analytical skills needed to work with today’s complex data sets in the support of business decision-making. The certificate can be completed on either a full- or part-time basis, and classes are available during both daytime and evening hours. See Business Analytics Graduate Certificate  for course requirements.

Graduate Certificate in Business Fundamentals for Non-Business Professionals

The Graduate Certificate in Business Fundamentals for Non-Business Professionals is designed for individuals who hold undergraduate degrees in non-business fields and seek core business knowledge to support management responsibilities or relationships with business professionals but who are not likely to pursue an MBA. It is best suited to mid- and senior-level managers, professional and technical specialists assuming management responsibilities, those seeking improved career mobility, individuals returning to the work force and small business owners. The program provides a basic introduction to the major disciplines within the field of business, common business practices and effective business communication. Classes are offered primarily at night to accommodate the needs of working professionals. See Business Fundamentals for Non-Business Professionals Graduate Certificate  for course requirements.

Graduate Certificate in Financial Analysis and Valuation

The Graduate Certificate in Financial Analysis and Valuation is designed to offer students the intensive instruction and training needed to successfully compete in rapidly developing global financial markets. Course work in the fundamental theories and practice of financial accounting, financial analysis, valuation, credit analysis, and financial instruments and markets expands analytical capacities to better understand and develop strategic financial decisions. See Financial Analysis and Valuation Graduate Certificate  for course requirements.

Graduate Certificate Program in Library and Information Management

The online Graduate Certificate in Library and Information Management is uniquely designed to serve both those who are looking to explore library and information management without committing to an entire degree and those who currently hold the equivalent MLIS degree looking to specialize in a specific aspect of the field. See Library and Information Management Graduate Certificate  for course requirements.

Graduate Certificate in Management Studies

The Graduate Certificate in Management Studies is designed to provide students who have completed graduate business course work equivalent to the first year of a traditional two-year MBA program with an opportunity to pursue further studies at the USC Marshall School of Business. The program is especially valuable for those who have completed the first year of a traditional MBA at another institution and those who completed a one-year MBA program and wish to enhance their knowledge in specialized areas of business. The certificate can be completed on either a full- or part-time basis, and classes are available during both daytime and evening hours. See Management Studies Graduate Certificate  for course requirements.

Graduate Certificate in Marketing

The Graduate Certificate in Marketing is designed for individuals who want to develop the analytical and technical skills needed to work with today’s complex marketing issues in the support of effective business decision-making. The certificate can be completed on either a full- or part-time basis, and classes are available during both daytime and evening hours. See Marketing Graduate Certificate  for course requirements.

Graduate Certificate in Optimization and Supply Chain Management

The Optimization and Supply Chain Management Program is offered by the Marshall School of Business in partnership with the Viterbi School of Engineering. The program offers individuals opportunities to expand their knowledge of the rapidly expanding uses of technology in the management of global supply chains. The certificate may be completed on either a full- or part-time basis. Most classes applicable to the program are offered during both daytime and evening hours. Many of the ISE courses included in the curricula are available online. See Optimization and Supply Chain Management Graduate Certificate  for course requirements.

Graduate Certificate in Sustainability and Business

The Graduate Certificate in Sustainability and Business is designed to offer individuals the instruction and training they need to help shape solutions to social and environmental sustainability challenges, both from within and from outside the business sector. Course work includes sustainability strategies and practices, business law and ethics, and sourcing management. The program is suited to students coming from a broad range of backgrounds. Applicants do not need to be matriculated USC students to undertake the program. Anyone who holds a four-year bachelor’s degree is welcome to apply. See Sustainability and Business Graduate Certificate  for course requirements.

Graduate Certificate in Technology Commercialization

The Graduate Certificate in Technology Commercialization, offered through the Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, provides technology commercialization skills in an academic/real world environment that combines theory and practice. Through a living laboratory academic program, students experience the entire spectrum of the commercialization process: invention, product development, technical and market feasibility analysis, intellectual property acquisition, business development and venture funding. Working with USC scientists and engineers, students have the potential to become stakeholders in a new technology venture. They are also eligible to apply for summer internships sponsored by industry partners to give them additional experience in taking a new technology to market. The program is particularly well suited to those in science, engineering and business. See Technology Commercialization Graduate Certificate  for course requirements.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy program in business administration is designed to produce research-oriented graduates who, from positions in academia, can advance business practice and enhance the contributions that businesses make to the larger community. These goals can be advanced through research contributions in theory, concepts, methods and practices, and education of the next generation of business leaders. For more information see Business Administration (PhD) .

Master’s Degree and Graduate Certificate Programs

Academic Policies — Master’s Programs

Waivers

Subject waiver of required courses may be granted to students based on prior academic work subject to university policy limitations and in some cases by examination. All waived courses must be replaced with electives.

Further information regarding the waiver policy in the Marshall School of Business may be obtained from the program adviser for the applicable degree program following admission.

Change of Degree Program

Students who are currently enrolled in one degree program who wish to change their degree status to another program must formally apply for admission to that program through the Admission Office for the applicable program. Details concerning individual student requirements in other degree programs may be obtained by contacting the applicable program office.

Continuous Enrollment/Leave of Absence/Withdrawal/Reinstatement

Once admitted to a graduate degree program, the student must enroll at USC each fall and spring semester each year until she or he has satisfactorily completed all degree requirements. MBAPM students must enroll at USC each fall and spring semester and summer session each year until they have satisfactorily completed all degree requirements.

If for military, medical, religious or job-related reasons a student must skip a semester, the student must petition for a leave of absence. The petition should be submitted to the student’s program adviser no later than the first day of class for the semester of the leave. Leave of absence request forms are available by electronic mail, fax or hard copy.

If granted, the period of leave is not counted in the time allowed for the completion of degree requirements, and the student is allowed to complete the degree requirements in effect when he or she was originally admitted.

Once a leave is approved, it is the student’s responsibility to withdraw from any classes for which the student has already enrolled. An approved leave may not exceed one academic year. A student whose leave exceeds one academic year or who fails to maintain continuous enrollment without obtaining an approved leave must, when ready to return to school, apply for readmission to the program. Applications for readmission are available by email, fax or hard copy. Contact the program adviser for the applicable program.

Students who must completely withdraw from a program must notify their program office of their withdrawal from the program. Students should contact their program office for more information or assistance.

Course Work at Another Institution

Once matriculated into a Marshall School of Business program, a student must receive prior permission by petition from the appropriate Marshall program office to take course work (a maximum of six units) at another institution. Only course work from an AACSB accredited business school can be accepted. A grade of B or better must be earned. Permission is granted only in exceptional circumstances.

Limited Status

The Marshall School of Business does not allow students to take graduate (500-level) electives on any conditional or special status basis prior to application and an official admission decision except under the following condition: students completing a Master of Business Administration program at another accredited university outside of the Los Angeles area may take up to 12 units in the Marshall School of Business to complete their degrees, provided that a letter from the associate dean or program director at a student’s university identifies the classes that will be accepted for credit by the university granting the degree.

Grade Point Average Requirements

Master’s students must maintain a grade point average of 3.0 (A = 4.0) or better to stay in good academic standing. Students who are not in good academic standing are subject to dismissal.

Grades

Grades below C (2.0) in all master’s degree courses are not acceptable. If a lower grade is earned in a required course, the course must be repeated at USC and a grade of C or above must be earned. Degree credit will not be given for courses with grades of C- and below, but the grades are computed into the grade point average. Such courses should be repeated in the next semester in which the course in question is offered and must be repeated within one calendar year. Satisfactory completion of all required courses must occur prior to or concurrently with the beginning of advanced course work.

Academic Warning

Master’s students who, in a term, do not earn or maintain a 3.0 (A = 4.0) grade point average will be given an academic warning in the semester following the one in which they became deficient in grade points. Students who fail to achieve a 3.0 upon completion of the required number of units for any degree may, with the prior permission of the assistant dean or the vice dean of graduate programs, be allowed to take a maximum of 12 additional units at USC to obtain the required GPA. Petitions to take additional units should be submitted to the student’s program office.

Dismissal

A student may be dismissed from a master’s program whenever, in the judgment of the program’s assistant dean and the vice dean for graduate programs, it is unlikely that the student will successfully complete his or her program.