The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is a private research university located in Los Angeles, California. USC has historically educated a large number of the region’s business leaders and professionals. The university houses the oldest medical school on the West Coast and has one of the nation’s most successful fine arts programs. USC is also home to a highly ranked engineering school and renowned communications and journalism programs.
In addition to its academic excellence, USC is known for its strong athletic programs. The Trojans have won 125 NCAA team championships, more than any other university. USC athletes have also won 280 Olympic medals, including 135 gold medals.
USC’s main campus covers 226 acres (0.9 km²) in a residential neighborhood southwest of downtown Los Angeles near Exposition Park. The university also operates several satellite campuses throughout Southern California, as well as international locations in Florence, Italy; Madrid, Spain; Sydney, Australia; Vancouver, Canada; and Shanghai, China.