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Graduate Certificate in Sustainability and Business
Welcome to our webpage where you will find more information about our flexible curriculum and application process.
This program caters mostly to graduate students at USC pursuing masters and doctoral degrees in a variety of disciplines.
We also welcome applicants from outside of USC.
The certificate prepares students to help shape solutions to social and environmental sustainability challenges, both from within and from outside the business sector.
For more information, EMAIL or call 213-740-3198.
ACADEMIC OVERVIEW
The Graduate Certificate in Sustainability and Business requires successful completion of 15-units with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0 for all units applied to the certificate.
Core Courses
Complete 6-15 units from the following:
ACCT 599: Business Sustainability and Competitive Advantage
BAEP 564: Investing in Impact Ventures (3)
BAEP 571: Social Innovation Design (3)
BAEP 591: Social Entrepreneurship (3) or BAEP 589: Social Entrepreneurship (2)
DSO 505: Sustainable Supply Chains (1.5)
DSO 554: Digital Strategies for Sustainability in Global Markets (3)
DSO 586: Global Healthcare Operations Management (3)
FBE 557: Business Law and Ethics (3)
MOR 534: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Business (3)
MOR 566: Environmental Sustainability and Competitive Advantage (3)
As of Summer 2022, the following courses are approved qualifying courses for this certificate. Please contact the certificate advisor at Sustainability@marshall.usc.edu if you enroll in these courses so we may process this for you.
DSO 599: Smart City Tactics, Technologies, and Operations (3)
FBE 599: Sustainable Finance, Concepts and Applications (3)
Electives
Complete up to 9 units from the following:
ARCH 519: Sustainability in the Environment: Infrastructures, Urban Landscapes, & Buildings (3)
ARCH 571: Community-Based Design, Conservation and Planning (2)
ARCH 576: Sustainable Design for Healthy Indoor Environments (3)
ARCH 579: Sustainable Building and Environment using LEED metrics (3)
CE 515: Sustainable Infrastructure Systems (3)
CHEM 581: Current Topics in Sustainable Energy Generation and Storage (2)
CMGT 577: Communicating Corporate Social Responsibility (4)
ENE 502: Environmental and Regulatory Compliance (4)
ENE 505: Energy and the Environment (4)
ENST 520: Environmental Law and Policy (4) or LAW 655: Environmental Law (2, 3, or 4)
ENST 530: Environmental Risk Analysis (4) or PPD 587: Risk Analysis (4)
ISE 576: Industrial Ecology: Technology-Environment Interaction (3)
LAW 655: Environmental Law (2, 3, or 4) or ENST 520: Environmental Law and Policy (4)
PM 555: Environmental Health, Policy and Practice (4)
PM 557: Global Environmental Health (4)
POSC 546: Seminar in Environmental Policy (4)
PPD 568: Environmental Governance and Sustainability (2)
PPD 587: Risk Analysis (4) or ENST 530: Environmental Risk Analysis (4)
PPD 621: Environmental Impacts (3)
PPD 644: Shaping the Built Environment (4)
PPD 688: Business and Public Policy (4)
PPD 689: The Nonprofit Sector and Philanthropy (4)
PPD 692: Transportation and the Environment (4)
PPDE 632: Sustainable Cities (4)
PPDE 634: Methodology, Methods and Tools for Urban Sustainability (2, 3, or 4)
PPDE 640: Environmental Planning and Analysis (4)
PPDE 660: Environmental Policy Design and Analysis (4)
PPDE 662: China from a US Policy Perspective (4)
PPDE 681: Fund Development for Nonprofit Organizations (4)
PSYC 456: Conservation Psychology (4)
SAE 515 (formerly CE-515): Sustainable Infrastructure Systems (3)
SOWK 684: Community Practice for Social Innovation (3)
Given the growing number of courses relevant to this certificate at USC, students may petition the Academic Director to include courses not listed here. Petitions must be received and approved prior to registration for the course to be applied to the certificate.
APPLYING TO USC MARSHALL
We welcome applications from individuals who have never applied to attend USC before as well as current USC graduate students.
Current USC Students
Only students currently enrolled in a Masters or Doctoral degree at USC are considered ‘current USC students.’ If you are an alumnus, even if recently graduated, you must follow the directions to apply as a non-USC student.
Dates + Deadlines
Application deadlines are rolling for current USC students.
We suggest students apply for the term in which they will take their first course for the certificate program. If you’ve already completed units toward the certificate program as part of your MBA or MS degree, you may apply to the next available term. Be sure to carefully read “Combining your current USC program with the graduate certificate” if you are nearing graduation from your primary USC degree.
Each September, applications for the following Spring, Summer and Fall terms are launched. If you don’t see the term for which you wish to apply, try back in September.
Application
Applications for the Graduate Certificate are submitted on-line via gradadm.usc.edu/apply/.
Start by applying for an application fee waiver. (First year students must wait until they have completed their first semester to obtain an application fee waiver.) Follow the instructions under - step 3 at http://gradadm.usc.edu/apply/us-students/ready-to-apply/ or - step 4 at http://gradadm.usc.edu/apply/international-students/ready-to-apply/ Processing of application fee waivers usually takes 3-5 working days. You will receive a confirmation email when the fee waiver is processed.
Use your existing login and password to retrieve your file in WebAdmit (DO NOT create a new account).
Under the "Add Program" tab search for "Program Level" Certificate, find "Marshall School of Business" and select the Graduate Certificate from the list for the appropriate semester.
Return to the "My Application" tab and complete the required portions of the application. Test scores and transcripts submitted to USC with your prior application will be on file in the USC admissions system. You will not have to submit new official scores or new official transcripts, but do fill in the requested fields and upload scanned copies as requested to your application. You may upload a copy of your STARS report for your current program instead of a USC transcript.
In the "Academic Background" section, don't forget to add your current USC degree program to your education history.
In the "Program Materials" quadrant, the "Questions" are required.
When you are ready to submit your application, if the system asks for a credit card number, do NOT give it a credit card number. Contact USC Admissions to follow up on the status of your waiver.
Combining Your Current USC Program with the Graduate Certificate
The graduate certificate may be completed in conjunction with coursework required for the program in which the student is already enrolled. Applicability of these courses to the student's primary degree program is determined by the student's home department. Current USC MBA students may apply all 15 units of the graduate certificate program to their MBA degree.
While we recommend you apply to the certificate in conjunction with registration for the first class which will apply to the certificate, note that we can apply prior coursework completed in your primary graduate degree retroactively toward the certificate as long as your primary degree has not posted.
If your primary degree at USC is awarded prior to completion of the certificate, it’s no longer possible to overlap units and you will be required to complete 15 unique units for the certificate.
Note: conferral of the certificate and documentation on the transcript requires that the individual formally apply to the program and be admitted.
Non-USC Students
Interested applicants who are not active students in a USC Masters or Doctoral program should follow the application instructions below.
For early registration:- February 1 for fall semester- September 1 for spring semester- January 1 for summer termFinal Deadline for non-USC students:- May 15 for fall semester (April 1 for international students)- November 1 for spring semester (October 1 for international students)- March 15 for summer term (February 15 for international students)International applicants (who are not enrolled in another program at USC) who wish to come to the U.S. to complete this program only must complete the full program in no more than two semestersCurrent USC StudentsApplication deadlines are rolling for current USC students.We suggest students apply for the term in which they will take their first course for the certificate program. If you’ve already completed units toward the certificate program as part of your MBA or MS degree, you may apply to the next available term. Be sure to carefully read “Combining your current USC program with the graduate certificate” if you are nearing graduation from your primary USC degree.Each September, applications for the following Spring, Summer and Fall terms are launched. If you don’t see the term for which you wish to apply, try back in September.
Four-year Undergraduate Degree or Equivalent
To be in the program the applicant must have earned the equivalent of a 4-year U.S. bachelor's degree with a competitive GPA. Applicants in the process of finishing an undergraduate degree may apply, with acceptance contingent on finishing the undergraduate degree and ability to be physically present at the start of the program.
Please see here for degree requirements by country.
Online Application
Complete the online application and upload all required documents here.
International applicants should also consult the instructions for international students published in the USC Graduate Admissions web site.
When applying, we recommend using a personal email address that you will maintain access to for the foreseeable future rather than university or temporary accounts that you may lose access to. The program office is only able to communicate admissions decisions to the email address used at time of application.
Application Fees
Nonrefundable application fee: $155
USC students/ staff/ alumni, US military veterans, and select other groups qualify for an application fee waiver. For Fee Waiver Categories and instructions on how to apply for a waiver, click here https://gradadm.usc.edu/lightboxes/us-students-fee-waivers/
Transcripts
Transcript requirements are set forth by the Office of Graduate Admission. Please view their website for details.
Transcript submission is a two-step process:
You must upload scanned copies of official transcripts from all institutions attended to the online application. These must be official transcripts printed on university letterhead. Print-outs from online student portals are not acceptable.
After you submit your application and receive your 10-digit USC ID number, you must submit the official transcripts by mail, courier, or electronic services from all colleges, universities, and other post-secondary institutions you have previously attended.
Official transcript:
A transcript is considered official when it is received in the sealed envelope provided by the school, or when it is electronically transmitted (not emailed) from the institution. Even if it is mailed by the applicant, it can be considered official as long as the envelope has not been opened.
Cover sheet: We recommend that you fill out the “College/University Transcript Cover Page” and send it to the registrar’s office of each post-secondary institution you have attended. Although it is not mandatory, including it along with your USC ID number will help match your transcripts to your file as quickly as possible.
E-transcripts:
USC accepts official electronic transcripts from all countries, provided that the transcript originates from a secure site formally linked to the sending institution.
Please instruct the vendor to email the transcript to etrans@usc.edu. Do not send any other materials or correspondence to this email. Electronic transcripts e-mailed to any other address will not be downloaded, delaying review of your file and adding an extra expense because the transcript will need to be re-sent.
Transcripts in original language of issuance: International students who have earned their degree outside the United States must check the country-specific requirements to determine if original-language copies of their academic records are needed. In such cases, a separate, word-for-word, English-language translation of all academic records must also be submitted. The translation should either be issued directly from the school itself or by a professional, certified, translator. It must contain all information shown on the original-language documents and “mirror” them as precisely as possible. Dual-language transcripts are also acceptable.
USC alumni or current students: USC degree holders do not need to submit USC transcripts to the Office of Graduate Admission. Please be sure to include your USC enrollment in the “Academic Background” section so that we may match your application to the academic records already on file.
Credential evaluation: Please note that USC does not accept or recognize credential evaluation reports from outside agencies (e.g. WES, ECE, etc.) for the purposes of admission review.
Mailing Instructions
If sending your transcripts via regular mail, please use the following address:University of Southern CaliforniaUSC Office of Graduate Admission3601 South Flower Street, Room 112Los Angeles, CA 90089-0915
If sending your transcripts via courier service, such as DHL or FedEx, please use the following address:University of Southern CaliforniaUSC Office of Graduate Admission and Financial Aid3601 South Flower Street, Tyler 112Los Angeles, CA 90089-0915Phone: (213) 740-1111
Test Scores
GMAT/GRE
Official scores must be received before the deadline and sent directly to USC Marshall by testing service in order to be reviewed.
Submitting Scores: Upload electronic copies of your GMAT or GRE scores with your application in addition to sending official scores to USC Marshall through the testing service (GMAC or ETS).
Code:GRE: 4852 (No department code is required).GMAT: 389-9C-23
English-Language proficiency – TOEFL/IELTS (International Students)
International graduate applicants must demonstrate English-language proficiency by submitting TOEFL, IELTS or PTE scores.
Minimum Requirement:TOEFL: Total 100; each band 20IELTS: Overall 7; each band 6
Exceptions: International applicants are exempt from the TOEFL/IELTS requirement only under the circumstances outlined here.
Submitting Scores: To avoid delays in the processing of your application, please have your TOEFL or IELTS scores sent to USC Marshall when you pre-register for the examination. Upload electronic copies of your TOEFL or IELTS scores with your application in addition to sending official scores to USC Marshall through the testing service. Official scores must be received directly from the testing service and dated no earlier than 2 years (24 months) prior to the start of your intended first term at USC. Do not enter the name and contact information of your specific intended graduate department.
Code:TOEFL: 4852 (no department code is required)IELTS: choose “University of Southern California, Graduate Programs” from the list of available institutions on the day you sit for the exam.
Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation are neither required nor accepted. Please do not submit such letters at any point during the admissions cycle.
International Students
Financial Documentation and Passport
Admission to USC is based on merit rather than ability to pay. The U.S. government, however, requires that all international applicants provide proof of adequate financial support for the first year of study and passport copies for you and any applicable dependents before a formal letter of admission and an I-20 (or DS-2019) can be issued.
It is not necessary to submit financial documents or a copy of a valid passport for your application to be reviewed or for an admission decision to be rendered.
However, during application ‘busy season’ from February to May, students should be aware that processing time for these documents can take up to 8 weeks. For this reason, we strongly suggest you submit financial documents and your passport copy as part of your original online application submission. This will greatly speed receipt of the I-20 document for admitted and certified students.
Please read carefully through USC Graduate Admission Guidelines for Financial Documentation , particularly the Financial Statement Expense Figures as well as the detailed guidelines for submitting proof of financial support.
International Students FAQ
Admissions & Eligibility
Who is considered an international applicant?
All applicants that are not United States nationals, and will be entering, or have already entered, the United States with an F-1 or J-1 student visa, should apply as an international student. Applicants who already reside in the United States and hold other non-immigrant visas (for example, E2, H2 or L2) are also considered international applicants.
Permanent residents of the United States, naturalized U.S. citizens, and U.S. citizens residing abroad and attending a university outside the United States are not considered international students.
*For more information see here
How do I know if I am exempt from language testing?
International applicants are exempt from the TOEFL/IELTS requirement only under the circumstances outlined under “English-Language Test Waiver” here.
I have a 3-year Bachelor's degree, can I apply?
Country specific requirements are listed here: http://gradadm.usc.edu/lightboxes/international-students-country-requirements/.
What is the required International Degree Verification process?
Students who choose to attend USC should be aware that the USC Office of Degree Progress requires verification of international bachelor’s degrees from the International Education Research Foundation (IERF).
Students complete this process after admission to the program.
Detailed information about IERF services, including application forms, fees, and required documents are available at www.ierf.org/usc.
Please contact Degree Progress dprogss@usc.edu, 213.740.7070 if you have any questions, or need more information regarding prior degree verification.
Does USC provide answers to other Frequently Asked Questions about admissions for an International Student?
The Graduate Admissions Office website, https://gradadm.usc.edu/, is an amazing resource for international applicants and students to help address frequently asked questions and concerns. Visit their FAQ page for international students!
School and Program Information
Is the Graduate Certificate in Marketing STEM-eligible?
We are not designated as a STEM program as defined by the Department of Homeland Security for the STEM extension. However, you can still apply for OPT for one year after completed the degree program.
If you are interested in STEM OPT, we recommend you apply to Marshall's Master of Science in Marketing in the Marketing Analytics track.
What is USC’s Office of International Service (OIS)?
USC's Office of International Services (OIS) is the primary resource for USC's international students. This office has the most updated information regarding visas, events specifically for international students, and employment. They also have great information on pre-arrival, arrival, and life in Los Angeles! All new students should sign up for their newsletter.
Financing Your Degree
What if I need help paying for school? Are there scholarships?
There are no scholarships available for domestic or international students in the program.
Many of our students pay for their degrees using savings or loans. For more information on financial aid that is specific to international students, please see USC's Financial Aid website. ( https://financialaid.usc.edu/general/international-students.html )
Admissions Contact
EMAIL | Phone: 213-740-3198
FAQs
Do I have to be a current USC student to apply for admission to this program?
No. Anyone who has the necessary qualifications is welcome to apply.
I really want to get into the Marshall MBA program. Can I start with the certificate and then transfer to the MBA?
No. Admission to the Graduate Certificate program will not change your chances of getting into the MBA program. You should apply to the MBA program instead. With the MBA you will get a much broader education, and you can do the Graduate Certificate in conjunction with the electives portion of your MBA.
I already hold a master's degree. Do I have to submit test scores?
Yes. Holding a prior master’s degree does not exempt applicants from submitting the required test scores.
What if I took the required course with a degree I completed already?
Coursework credited to a degree previously awarded by USC cannot be applied to the Graduate Certificate. Likewise, coursework taken at another university cannot be applied to the Graduate Certificate and should not be repeated at USC. Individuals who completed the equivalent of introductory graduate/master’s-level Managerial Statistics - prior to admission will be required to complete an alternate 3-unit course selected from the list of electives.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The length of time needed to complete the program varies from student to student.
- International students must complete the program within two semesters.
- Domestic students and permanent residents may complete the program over several years.
Career Development and Placement Services
Please note that the Marshall Career Service does not offer support to certificate-only students. Certificate-only students are provided career-related services through the USC CAREER CENTER. Certificate students are encouraged to join graduate student clubs and organizations in their field of interest as well.
Program Cost
Tuition
Tuition is calculated per unit based on the unit price of the given academic year. Tuition is subject to increase each academic year. For detailed information on tuition and mandatory fees please visit: https://classes.usc.edu/term-20223/tuition-and-fees/ Please keep in mind this information relates only to the listed academic year.
The Sustainability and Business Graduate Certificate program is a 15-unit program of Business Graduate (500 level and above) Coursework.
In addition, we ask students to budget for approximately $3000 in additional university and program fees. Students are also responsible for housing, food, transportation and student health insurance costs.
Student Financial Services
All tuition and fee payment are processed through Student Financial Services. For more information on billing cycles, methods of payment, and more, please visit their website or contact their department directly.
International Students Financial Statement
International students should visit here for further information.
Financial Aid
Please visit USC Financial Aid and click on “Graduates & Professionals” You will find information about domestic and international students.
STAY CONNECTED
CONTACT
EMAILPhone: 213-740-3198
RESOURCES
Helpful LINKS for students applying to USC Marshall.