General Requirements
Residence and Course Load
The Master of Planning and Development Studies may be completed in one academic year of 12 units in the fall and spring semesters and the four-unit integrative seminar/comprehensive examination the following summer semester.
At least 18 units of graduate study must be done in residence at the University Park Campus, the USC State Capital Center or at an approved off-campus study center.
Time Limit
Students in the program must complete all requirements for the Master of Planning and Development Studies within five calendar years from the beginning of the semester in which the student was admitted to the program.
Grade Point Average Requirement
While enrolled in the program, a student must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0 (A = 4.0) for all courses taken toward the degree.
Probation and Disqualification
Any student with a cumulative grade point average below 3.0 for all courses taken in the program will be placed on academic probation. A student whose semester grade point average is below 3.0, but whose cumulative grade point average is 3.0 or higher, will be placed on warning.
A student may be disqualified to continue toward a graduate degree if the student has been on academic probation for two consecutive semesters. Whether or not on academic probation or warning, a student may be disqualified at any time from continuing in the program if the dean of the school, after consultation with the faculty, determines the student is deficient in any degree requirement.
Course Exemption and Transfer of Credits
Credit for graduate work may be transferred from approved graduate schools as determined by the USC Degree Progress Department in the Office of Academic Records and Register on recommendation of the dean of the school. Not more than four units of graduate work, with grades of B or better, can be transferred for credit toward the Master of Planning and Development Studies degree.
The following courses, or their equivalents, may not normally be transferred for unit credit from other institutions: PPD 611 , PPD 612 and PPD 638 . Undergraduate work may not be transferred into the degree program for unit credit.
Some applicants for admission to the school will have been engaged in work in planning, development or closely related activities. Although this experience should be beneficial to the students involved, it may not be considered equivalent to academic education.
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