Special Notes: 

1. Admission to the Progressive Degree Program and the activation of a Master’s-level Program of Study (MS/MA POST) is considered a “change of program.” A change of program for students with Visas has significant and important impacts, including but not limited to:
   1. Changing the student’s expected program completion date. Students currently holding a visa will need to update their I-20 and provide a new Financial Statement.
   2. Changing the student’s eligibility for OPT. Students may not be allowed an OPT between the Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree programs.
2. All international students considering a PDP are strongly urged to consult with OIS prior to applying to the PDP.
3. As a visa holder, if you have questions about how the progressive degree program may impact you, please contact the Viterbi Admission and Student Affairs Office (RTH 110).

1. Once fully admitted with an active POST, students are able to change their Master’s program within the same academic unit (i.e., Viterbi School) and/or drop their Master’s Program.
2. A change of program requires:
   1. A new Proposed Course Plan with signatures that reflects the new degree requirements. It should be indicated on the Plan that it is a “revised course plan.”
   2. A properly filled-out and signed Change of Major form.
   3. Both forms must be turned in to the Viterbi Admission and Student Affairs Office (RTH 110).

1. Progressive Degree Students are subject to all normal rules and regulations concerning financial aid, as well as applicable rules as described in “program requirements” above.
2. Students should be aware that most forms of financial aid eligibility, including most need-based and merit-based aid, are determined by a student’s undergraduate or graduate status and a Progressive degree student’s undergraduate status changes to graduate status at the start of the ninth (9th) semester.
3. Students should consult with the USC Office of Financial Aid to determine their exact eligibility. Students with any additional questions or concerns after meeting with the Office of Financial Aid are encouraged to speak with a staff member in the Viterbi Office of Admission and Student Affairs.
4. Progressive Degree students are eligible to apply for competitively awarded PDP scholarships. Applications are available through the Viterbi Admission and Student Affairs Office (RTH 110) in January of each year and are due in March of each year.

Final Spring Application Deadline:
May 14, 2008

Quick Links

• PDP Main Page
• Program Information
• Step by Step Application Instructions
• PDP Application