MPPDS Admission

Admission Requirements

Potential for distinguished academic and professional achievement is the principal criterion for admission. In general, successful applicants typically have at least a 3.0 GPA in undergraduate study with strong grades in math and analytical courses.

Application Deadlines

The following items are required in order to complete the applications process:

• a USC Graduate Application — For step-by-step admission guidelines, visit: gradadm.usc.edu/apply
• $90 application fee
• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.  USC now accepts official electronic transcripts from all countries, provided that the transcript originates from a secure site formally linked to the sending institution. All applicants should have their university registrar send transcripts electronically to [email protected]. To expedite review of your application, you may upload **OFFICIAL** copies of your transcripts into your application but you must still have official transcripts sent electronically to [email protected]. If your university doesn’t send transcripts electronically, please have them sent to the address listed on the transcripts requirements page here.
• A current resume
• three letters of recommendation, including at least one academic reference. Please note: Letters of recommendation must be submitted through the online application system. We will not accept letters of recommendation through postal mail.
• a statement of purpose of approximately 750-1,500 words addressing the following questions:
  • Why do you wish to pursue the Master of Science in Public Policy Data Science degree?
  • How will the Master of Science in Public Policy Data Science degree affect or enhance your career aspirations and goals?
  • Please share how your experiences, background, and/or interests have shaped you and will shape your engagement in the Price community.
  • USC has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to protecting the integrity of our admissions processes. All of our applicants are personally responsible for all of the information and essays submitted in their applications. Were we to learn that an applicant had used generative AI for any part of their application, their application would be immediately rejected. 

International students must also submit the following documents:

• official TOEFL/IELTS scores – Official scores must be received directly from the testing service and date no earlier than 2 years (24 months) prior to the date of your application submission. (Institution code: 4852)
• official transcripts indicating the award of all degrees with the title and date conferred in the applicant’s native language and an exact translation into English of each document
• Before you begin your application to USC Price, please carefully read all instructions provided by the USC Office of Admission’s website.