Southern California Universities for Professional Studies

Those seeking professional programs in Southern California can begin their studies at the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) or the University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles, CA. USC offers professional programs in education, pharmacy and medicine. UCLA students can earn their professional degrees in architecture, law or medicine.

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University of California at Los Angeles' Professional Programs

The University of California at Los Angeles features seven professional schools. It offers professional studies programs through the School of the Arts and Architecture, the School of Law, the David Geffen School of Medicine and four other schools. Students can attend UCLA to earn their Master of Architecture, Doctor of Medicine, Juris Doctor or Juris Doctor/Doctor of Philosophy, among other professional degrees.

Master of Architecture I

This degree program lasts three years and is designed to prepare students to work as architects. The curriculum, which involves several design studios, is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).

Master of Architecture II

Before enrolling in the Master of Architecture II program, prospective students need to earn an undergraduate 5-year professional degree in architecture. This program offers professional instruction beyond the Master of Architecture I program, and students learn about specialized areas and applications within the field of architecture; these include emerging technologies and contemporary urban forms.

Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)

The Doctor of Medicine curriculum prepares students to work as physicians. Students in this program can also choose to earn a joint degree in business administration or public health. They can also enroll in a medical scientist training program.

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Earning the Juris Doctor is necessary to take the bar exam and practice law. Students at UCLA can specialize in law and philosophy, race studies, media, public interest or entertainment while enrolled in this program.

Juris Doctor/Doctor of Philosophy (J.D./Ph.D.)

This joint professional program can be completed within six years, after which students earn their Ph.D. and J.D. concurrently. Students enroll in this program to practice law and pursue a career in teaching or research. Before they complete a dissertation, students in the program explore legal philosophy and structure in depth.

Contact Information

Address: UCLA Graduate Division, 1237 Murphy Hall, Box 951419, Los Angeles, California 90095
Phone Number: (310) 825-3819

University of Southern California's Professional Programs

The Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, Rossier School of Education, School of Pharmacy and Keck School of Medicine offer professional curricula at USC. Students who enroll in these and other professional schools can also take advantage of USC's continuing education programs to maintain up-to-date knowledge in their field.

Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.)

The professional Doctor of Dental Surgery curriculum prepares students for careers in dentistry. The program emphasizes preparation for new and emerging trends in dentistry as well as problem-solving skills. Students also benefit from clinical experience while learning in a group setting.

Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)

Doctor of Pharmacy students learn how to practice in a pharmacy setting. Instruction in this program is team-based and interdisciplinary, familiarizing students with computer technology for healthcare systems. The School of Pharmacy's clerkship program allows students to explore an area of their interest in pharmaceutical care, such as geriatrics, oncology or dermatology.

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Ed.D.)

The Rossier School of Education's Ed.D. in Educational Leadership program trains students to lead and manage schools and other educational organizations. This curriculum provides the skills to manage a school focused on any level of instruction.

Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)

This 4-year program prepares students to practice medicine. Students receive instruction from each of the Keck School of Medicine's departments, which include pediatrics, surgery, neurology and anesthesiology. Individually and in small groups, students learn about basic science within the context of clinical medicine.

Doctor of Medicine/Master of Business Administration (M.D./MBA)

The M.D./MBA program prepares students to practice medicine and provide business leadership to medical institutions. The first two years of the program emphasize medicine, and students focus on business administration courses in the third year. After completing 66 months of study, students are capable of managing and designing healthcare organizations.