USC MING HSIEH ECE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
UNDERGRADUATE MAJORS
Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE)
The ECE major is divided into 3 emphases: Computer Engineering Signals, Systems, and Learning Devices and Circuit. This program is designed to promote technical competence, professional development and citizenship in the global community.
Computer Engineering and Computer Science (CECS)
CECS is a joint program between 2 departments—Electrical and Computer Engineering and Computer Science. This program allows students interested in both fields to gain the training needed to become competent in the hardware and software worlds.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The AI program is launched this year and is offered by the USC School of Advanced Computing. The new major prepares students to become leaders in AI as it builds on USC’s core initiatives in advancing AI and technology. Students can apply now to start in Fall 2026.
Progressive Degree Program
option to add a MS degree and graduate in only 5 years
Our students also benefit from our Progressive Degree Program (PDP) program, which allows ECE students to graduate with both a BS and MS degree in only 5 years. Our PDP program allows you to earn credits toward a Master’s Degree while completing your Bachelor’s Degree at USC.
Undergrad Student Life @ USC ECE
learn more about undergrad opportunities at USC ECE and how you can get involved OUTSIDE of classrooms?
Connect with a student ambassador
Want to learn more about life as an ECE student? Connect with one of our student ambassadors! USC Viterbi Student Ambassadors (VSA) are engineering students who represent the Viterbi community by sharing their experiences with prospective students and families. From hosting admission events to creating content for platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and the Viterbi Voices podcast, VSAs help future Trojans discover what life is like at USC Viterbi. Check out the VSA team and connect with ECE's student ambassadors!
Explore student orgs
Student organizations are a huge part of college life. It's where our students make like-minded friends, find mentors, kickstart careers, build professional networks and step into leadership roles. USC Makers and USC IEEE are student orgs housed under the department. USC Makers gives students the opportunity to ideate, build and showcase fully student-led hardware projects—perfect for hands-on experience and interdisciplinary teamwork. USC IEEE focuses on industry connection building through its speaker panels, professional workshops, industry events, social mixers and more. Explore all student orgs and get involved now!
Study abroad
Study abroad is an exciting way for ECE students to explore the world while advancing their engineering education. Through Viterbi International Programs, students can study or conduct research abroad for a week, a semester, or an entire summer—earning course credit and hands-on experience along the way. Opportunities include short-term programs like Viterbi Maymester in Berlin and Spring Break Abroad in Tokyo, as well as semester exchanges at top global universities such as NUS, HKUST, and the University of Edinburgh. Learn more about studying abroad options now.