The John Brooks Slaughter Center provides co-curricular programs and development opportunities for all Viterbi students. Rooted in the values and legacy of Dr. John Brooks Slaughter, the Center helps shape the culture and community of the Viterbi student body.
These programs are open to all eligible individuals. The Viterbi School of Engineering operates all of its programs and activities consistent with the University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor.
Explore the John Brooks Slaughter Center programs below under the following areas: First Year & New Student Transition, Research & Global Programs, and Community & Leadership Development.
First Year & New Student Transition
The John Brooks Slaughter Center includes programs such as MS orientation, the Graduate Mentorship Program, and the Viterbi Summer Institute to help incoming Viterbi students transition into student life at USC.
Our program is meticulously crafted to facilitate your smooth transition into life at USC by pairing you with experienced Viterbi graduate students. Get personalized guidance, insider tips, and valuable support as you begin your graduate journey at USC Viterbi.
Check out this page to help you prepare for the start of your first semester at USC, including orientation information. Find everything you need to know about campus resources, important dates, registration details, and essential steps to ensure a successful start to your USC Viterbi experience.
The Viterbi Scholars Institute (VSI) is a high-achievement program designed to enhance the transition to USC for incoming first-year engineering students. This intensive summer program provides academic preparation, community building, and early exposure to engineering concepts to ensure your success at USC Viterbi.
Research & Global Programs
The John Brooks Slaughter Center includes research and global programs to further develop the engineering undergraduate student in academics and research.
The CURVE Program provides a centralized resource for Viterbi undergraduate students to explore research opportunities early in their academic career. Connect with faculty mentors, discover research projects, and gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge engineering research.
The Viterbi Grand Challenges Scholars Program (GCSP) is an opportunity for Viterbi undergraduate students to customize their curricular and co-curricular experience to engage with one of the National Academy of Engineers' 14 Grand Challenges. Develop interdisciplinary skills and tackle the world's most pressing engineering challenges.
The SURE Program is an 8-week summer residential research program at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. Participate in hands-on research projects, work alongside distinguished faculty, and gain valuable experience in your field of interest while building connections with peers from around the country.
The Viterbi International Programs offer USC engineering students various global opportunities to enhance their technical skills and cultural perspective. These programs range from short-term courses to full-semester exchanges.
Community & Leadership Development
The John Brooks Slaughter Center includes various programs that foster community and leadership development for all Viterbi students.
Stay up to date with Viterbi news and events by activating your EngageSC account and downloading the app. Connect with the Viterbi community and never miss important updates and opportunities.
As a Viterbi student, your experience is heightened with active participation in student organizations! Join various engineering-focused groups and build lasting connections with your peers.
The Viterbi Impact Program connects Viterbi students to volunteer opportunities through the K-12 STEM Center and local community organizations. Make a difference in your community while developing leadership skills.
The Viterbi Learning Program (VLP) provides comprehensive academic support services to all undergraduate and pre-engineering students at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering.
Empowering Student Voices & Connecting Trojan Engineers! VUSA serves as the Undergraduate Governing Body of USC Viterbi, advocating for student needs and organizing events that enhance the undergraduate experience.
VGSA promotes interaction among the graduate students in the Viterbi School of Engineering by hosting various academic, wellness, career, and social activities. Connect with fellow graduate students and enhance your academic journey.
Women in Engineering (WIE) is a student program that offers professional, academic, and social services to students of the Viterbi School of Engineering. Join a supportive community dedicated to empowering women in STEM fields.
Viterbi Conference & Research (VCR) funding is available to Viterbi-affiliated student organizations through Viterbi Admission & Student Engagement and for Viterbi students. VCR funding is endowment-based and limited; the amount available varies from year to year. VCR funding is a supplement to the funding organizations and students receive from other sources. VCR is the LAST place from which organizations and individuals should seek funds. Organizations and students should never rely solely on this source to fund an entire event, program, or conference. Funding is limited each academic year.
Every year, Viterbi recognizes outstanding students for their contributions to the local community, research, and academic merit. Honor exceptional achievements in their studies and research.
Each year, following USC's main Commencement ceremony, the Viterbi School of Engineering hosts our own academic commencement ceremonies. Viterbi Commencement is the culmination of the Viterbi student experience. Fight On!
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Published on August 1st, 2025
Last updated on March 5th, 2026