Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: I am a non Viterbi USC undergraduate. Can I still apply to Viterbi PDP? 

• Whom should I use as my recommender? The Viterbi School strongly recommends that letters of recommendation come from Viterbi instructors or instructors in related fields. Viterbi instructors have extremely relevant information about an undergraduate student's potential for success in graduate level Viterbi courses. Ultimately, applicants must decide who is best positioned to speak to their potential for success in PDP should a Viterbi recommendation be unavailable. 

• I don't see my instructor in the drop down list on myViterbi. What should I do? Please select "other" and have your recommender email the letter to viterbi.pdp@usc.edu

• What is the timeline to hear back about my decision? If you apply by the first deadline you will hear back during the same semester, in time to register for grad classes in the following semester, should you be admitted. If you submit your application by the final deadline, you will receive your decision in the following semester, by the time that semester's registration appointment opens for the subsequent semester.

• How do I make changes to my course plan or change my major once I've begun my PDP? Fill out a Revised Course Plan, have your advisor(s) sign it, and email it to viterbi.pdp@usc.edu. If you are changing your major or dropping PDP, you will need to fill out and submit a Change of Major form along with the Revised Course Plan. 

• What will happen to my financial aid when I am enrolled in PDP? Your class level will change from undergraduate to graduate at some point during your PDP. When exactly that happens is dependent on several factors. For more information about when this change occurs and how progressive degree class level affects financial aid please visit the Financial Aid website.