Curriculum Updates

Technology changes quickly. That’s why we’ve updated our course offerings and programs — so that you can graduate with the most up-to-date skills and knowledge required to succeed in industry.

We’ve improved. Students minoring in applied analytics will now learn how to program in Python, which has emerged as the preferred language for data analytics. Our new minors in blockchain and in connected devices and making reflect worldwide trends. And our new programming sequence provides students with a stronger foundation for developing mobile, web, and desktop applications.

This information is intended for current students who started their minors before Fall 2019.

Transition Guides

These programs are affected by the curriculum updates. If you started your minor prior to Fall 2019, you will follow a transitional plan based on preserving your original requirements. Because many of our courses have changed (and a few canceled) your course plan will be adjusted accordingly. Please see the transitional requirements to see how your course plan will be affected.

If your minor is not listed here, then it is not affected by the curriculum updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did ITP make these changes?

We updated our course offerings and program requirements to better prepare students for trends in industry. We hope that you will find these changes rewarding and beneficial to your skills development.

When will these changes show up on Web Registration?

Late April or early May. But we wanted you to be able to plan your schedule with these changes in mind. For example, if you add ITP-341 (3 units) to your schedule now, it will be worth 4 units when the changes take effect. Once the changes take effect, you will be notified to drop the 3-unit version of the class and add the new version. Make sure to reserve the extra unit for the class.

What will happen to the classes I’ve already completed?

Any classes you have already completed will still count toward your minor or specialization requirements. These changes are not retroactive. But these changes will affect the classes that you’ll enroll in for Fall 2019 onward.

How will this affect my course plan?

This depends on how many classes you’ve already completed for your minor or specialization. We’ve outlined your remaining requirements based on what you’ve completed so far in the transition guide for your program.

I completed a course when it was a three-unit course, but now it is a four-unit course. Will this change how many units I’ve already earned?

No, these changes are not retroactive. We’ve added new course material, so the additional unit reflects the additional work required.

Can I continue following my original requirements?

You will follow a transitional plan based on preserving your original requirements. Because many of our courses have changed (and a few canceled) your course plan will be adjusted accordingly. Please see the transition guide for your program to see how your course plan will be affected.

Can I follow the updated minor requirements instead?

Yes. Many students who have only completed one or two courses may wish to follow the updated plan. Please inform our advisement team that you plan to follow the new requirements. By default, students who already declared their minors or specializations will follow transitional plans.

Can I meet with an adviser to update my course plan?

Before you meet with an adviser, you must read the information in the transition guide. After you have revised your course plan, you may schedule an appointment if needed. You are also welcome to email us at itpadvising@usc.edu. Advisers are not available to answer questions over the phone.

Why do I need 16 unique units?

All minors at USC need 16 units that only meet minor requirements and do not meet any other major, minor, or GE requirement. For example, if ITP-115 satisfies a requirement for your major and for your ITP minor, then it would not be “unique.” You cannot complete your minor without 16 unique units. There are no exceptions to this university rule.

My old requirements had more elective options. Can I still choose to enroll in those for minor credit?

Yes, students following the transitional plan are allowed to complete their old elective options still. Although the faculty recommends that students complete electives from the updated options (because these options reflect industry trends), you are allowed to earn minor credit for the former options. New students can only follow the electives in the new plan.

Who can I talk to for more guidance?

Please review your transition guide first. If you still have any questions, you may contact our advisement team. Unfortunately, we are not available to answer questions over the phone.

Published on March 5th, 2019

Last updated on February 3rd, 2020