All About Doctor of Medicine (MD) at University of Southern California (USC)
Discover why the University of Southern California (USC) is one of the most prestigious destinations for medical education in the United States. Learn about its medical programs, advanced research facilities, and the global opportunities it offers for building an exceptional career in medicine.
Affiliation and Recognition of University of Southern California
Accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME): The Keck School of Medicine of USC is fully accredited by LCME, ensuring the highest standards in medical education in the United States.
Recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO): USC is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), enabling graduates to pursue international medical licensure.
Approved by the U.S. Department of Education: USC operates under strict academic and regulatory standards mandated by U.S. education authorities.
Recognized by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG): This allows USC MD graduates to appear for USMLE examinations and pursue residency training in the United States.
Eligibility for International Licensing Exams: Graduates are eligible to appear for USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), and other international medical licensure examinations, subject to local regulations.
Affiliated with Leading Teaching Hospitals: USC has strong clinical partnerships with renowned hospitals such as LAC+USC Medical Center, Keck Hospital of USC, and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
Globally Recognized Medical Degree: The MD degree awarded by USC is respected worldwide, opening doors to medical practice, research, and advanced studies globally.
Why Study Medicine at University of Southern California
World-Renowned Medical School: The Keck School of Medicine of USC consistently ranks among the top medical schools in the United States.
Cutting-Edge Research Opportunities: USC is a leader in medical research, offering students access to NIH-funded research projects and advanced laboratories.
Early and Extensive Clinical Exposure: Students gain hands-on clinical experience from the early years of the MD program through affiliated hospitals.
English-Medium Curriculum: The entire MD program is taught in English, making it ideal for international students.
Multicultural Learning Environment: USC hosts students and faculty from across the globe, promoting diversity and cross-cultural collaboration.
Strong Residency Match Outcomes: Graduates secure residency placements across competitive specialties in top U.S. hospitals.
Advanced Infrastructure: USC offers state-of-the-art simulation centers, digital libraries, research facilities, and smart classrooms.
Advantages of MD at University of Southern California
- Globally Recognized MD Degree: USC’s MD degree is accepted worldwide for clinical practice and postgraduate training.
- Top-Tier Clinical Training: Training at some of the largest and most diverse hospital systems in the U.S.
- Research-Driven Curriculum: Emphasis on evidence-based medicine and innovation.
- Strong Career Prospects: Graduates pursue careers as physicians, researchers, academicians, and healthcare leaders.
- No Capitation or Donation Fees: Admission is purely merit-based through AMCAS and interview performance.
- USMLE-Oriented Training: Curriculum is aligned with USMLE Step examinations.
Duration of MD Program at University of Southern California
The Doctor of Medicine (MD) program at USC is a 4-year professional degree. The first two years focus on foundational medical sciences integrated with early clinical exposure.
The final two years emphasize full-time clinical rotations across core medical specialties such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, psychiatry, obstetrics & gynecology, and electives.
Faculties at University of Southern California
- Keck School of Medicine: Primary faculty offering MD education and advanced clinical training.
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences: Focuses on translational and basic medical research.
- Faculty of Public Health: Offers programs in epidemiology, health policy, and global health.
- Faculty of Nursing: Advanced nursing education and patient care programs.
- Faculty of Pharmacy: Clinical and pharmaceutical sciences education.
University of Southern California Ranking 2026
| Ranking Agency / Category | Rank / Position |
| QS World University Ranking | Top 150 (Globally) |
| Times Higher Education (THE) | Top 100 (USA) |
| U.S. News & World Report (Medicine) | Top Tier Medical School |
| Webometrics (World) | Top 100 |
MD Syllabus at University of Southern California
| Year | Subjects / Clinical Training |
| 1st Year | Human Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Medical Genetics, Ethics, Clinical Skills |
| 2nd Year | Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Immunology, Systems-Based Medicine |
| 3rd Year | Clinical Rotations: Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, OB-GYN |
| 4th Year | Advanced Clinical Rotations, Electives, Research, Residency Preparation |
Hostel and Accommodation at University of Southern California
USC provides on-campus and off-campus housing options for international students. Accommodation is modern, safe, and located close to academic buildings and hospitals.
Living Cost at University of Southern California
Living expenses in Los Angeles range between USD 1,200–1,800 per month, including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Career Prospects After MD from USC
- Residency and specialization in the USA
- Medical practice after licensing in home country
- Research and academic careers
- Healthcare leadership and administration
Opportunities for Work and Further Education in the USA
Graduates of USC can pursue residency training, fellowships, research careers, and long-term medical practice opportunities in the United States and worldwide.
