Online Learning

USC Goes Online with Masters in Planning and Public Policy

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 12/07/17

The University of Southern California will be launching two new graduate degrees completely online. The Sol Price School of Public Policy is introducing a master of planning, which is expected to appear in January 2019, as well as a master in public policy in 2020. The university is working with 2U to develop both programs.

2U sets up long-term contracts with institutions to take their programs online. While the university handles matters pertaining to the teaching and learning and applicant suitability, the company provides a technology platform for delivering virtual courses, handles technical support, works with faculty to create video content and supports admissions. Both entities invest in the new programs and get revenue based on their success.

The school of public policy already offers two online masters, one in public administration and the other in health administration. The master of planning program currently delivered on campus covers public policy, administration and real estate; graduates pursue careers in economic development, sustainable land planning, transportation and infrastructure, urban development and related fields. The master of public policy, also offered in a face-to-face format, prepares students for work in government, social and urban services, international affairs, homeland security and related segments.

"USC Price is committed to improving communities here and abroad," said Jack Knott, dean of the school, in a press release. "We recognize that present-day challenges can only be met by leaders who can think broadly and work collaboratively. Our online programs will allow us to reach a larger group of students with their own intellectual curiosity and far-reaching ambition, where diverse ideas from varying locations and backgrounds will contribute to real-world problem solving and tangible solutions."