Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Science Visualization Graduate Certificate available to anyone?

The Science Visualization Graduate Certificate is available only to students who are already attending USC in a graduate-level degree program. The certificate is available to students from any academic department or discipline, if they have the time and units to complete the required courses. Interested students should first discuss this with their graduate student advisor before contacting the Expanded Animation advisor.

If I declare the Science Visualization Graduate Certificate and change my mind, can it be reversed?

Yes. If you officially declare the certificate program and do not intend to complete it, you may inform the Expanded Animation advisor and the degree objective will be removed from your academic record.

Can I finish the Science Visualization Graduate Certificate before I finish my other graduate degrees?

Yes. Most students complete their 12 units of Science Visualization Graduate Certificate coursework before they have completed their master’s or doctoral coursework. If this occurs, the “date of completion” for the certificate may be listed as earlier than the student’s graduation date. This does not impact the student’s completion or graduation from their master’s or doctoral program.

Can I complete the certificate after finishing my other graduate degrees?

If a student completes their master’s or doctoral degree, and they have not yet completed the Science Visualization Graduate Certificate requirements, they may have the option to finish those certificate requirements in the following semester. However, this should be discussed first with the student’s primary graduate student advisor. Completing your primary degree will impact your financial aid status, and potentially your visa eligibility (for international students).