How long is this program?

NIIN is a one-year Master of Science program that consists of a total of 26 units (13 per semester).

Is this program STEM certified?

Yes, this program is STEM eligible, CIP code 26.1103 (Bioinformatics) – http://www.ice.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Document/2014/stem-list.pdf.

How many units are required to complete the program?

26 units are required.

Is there a Grade Point Average requirement for coursework in the program?

Yes. Please note the following information from the USC Catalogue: “At no time should the overall GPA drop below 3.0. A minimum grade of C (2.0) is required in a course to receive graduate credit. Work graded C- or below is not acceptable for subject or unit credit toward any master’s or doctoral program. An overall grade point average of at least 3.0 on all units attempted at USC while a graduate student is required for graduation.”

Will I get to scan actual brains?

Yes. Students in the program will learn to acquire brain scans on our 3T and 7T MRI scanners.

Will I learn how to process brain imaging data?

Yes. In the NIIN program, you will learn how to acquire and analyze brain imaging data using modern neuroimaging analysis techniques.

Can I swap out any NIIN courses that are listed for others from the USC course catalogue?

No. We have structured the program to be a synergistic and comprehensive set of courses which cover all aspects of neuroimaging and informatics in a systematic fashion.

Can I audit any other courses at USC while enrolled in the NIIN program?

That is between you and the instructor of those courses. Please speak to them about your interest in their course.

Are there any prerequisites for the NIIN program?

There are no formal prerequisites for the NIIN program, but students who have a strong background in science and some experience with computer programming and statistics will have an easier time with the course material.

What is the minimum grade-point average (GPA) expected from program applicants?

We evaluate the whole application when considering admissions. While there is no specific minimum requirement, most accepted students have at least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.

Do you require Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores for admission?

We do not require GRE scores for admission.

Can letters of recommendation be sent using an alternative method?

All three required letters of recommendation should be uploaded to the USC application portal. Any additional letters of recommendation beyond the three required may be emailed to us at niin@ini.usc.edu, with the subject line “Letter of Recommendation – YourName” (e.g., “Letter of Recommendation - Tommy Trojan”).

Are there any application fee waivers I can apply for?

Yes. If you are a United States citizen or legal permanent resident, please visit the Office of Graduate Admission website for instructions on how to apply for a fee waiver. We do not currently have fee waivers available for international applicants.
http://gradadm.usc.edu/lightboxes/us-students-fee-waivers/.

Can I take the program part-time?

Please email our program about options for part-time completion before applying (niin@ini.usc.edu). The subject line of the email should read, "Part-time student."

Does NIIN take part in USC’s Progressive Degree Program?

We offer a progressive degree option through USC. Please see the Prospective Students section of our website for more details, including about the application process and course selection.

Where can I find more information regarding international admission?

Additional information can be found on the International Student FAQ page on the USC Graduate Admissions website (https://gradadm.usc.edu/apply/international-students/).

Is there a USC office that assists international students?

The USC Office of International Services (OIS) offers a wide range of services, including help with official documents, immigration questions, employment, financial aid, health insurance and more.

What are the tuition costs associated with the program?

26 units are required at USC’s standard tuition rate. Please refer to USC’s Tuition and Fees page for details about graduate student tuition.

Where can I find information regarding financial assistance?

Please refer to the USC Financial Aid Office website for information about financial assistance. Additionally, for information about our internal program scholarships, please see the Prospective Students page of our website.

Once I complete the NIIN degree, what job opportunities might be available to me?

Students who have completed the NIIN program have gone on to PhD programs in fields such as neuroscience and biomedical engineering, medical programs, have become researchers in labs in academia or have become researchers, consultants, analysts, or science writers in industry. Some of our students also have been current medical doctors or PhDs who attended the NIIN program to learn new skills to further their ongoing research careers. For more information about our alumni, please see the Featured Alumni page of our website.

May I audit NIIN classes?

Only current USC students, faculty, post-docs, and staff may audit our classes. Please see the Prospective Students page of our website under Part-time Students/Non-NIIN Degree Students for details.

May I take NIIN courses if I am affiliated with USC but am not currently a student in a USC degree program (e.g.,USC faculty, post-doctoral scholars, or staff?)

Only current USC students, faculty, post-docs, and staff may take our classes outside of the NIIN degree program. Please see the Prospective Students page of our website under Part-time Students/Non-NIIN Degree Students for details.