USC Student Organizations Directory: A Guide to Campus Engagement

Campus life at the University of Southern California (USC) offers a vibrant and diverse environment where students from all walks of life can connect, explore, and discover their passions. With a plethora of student-run clubs and organizations, USC provides endless opportunities for students to shape their college experience, whether it's rediscovering an old hobby, trying something new, learning about different cultures and religions, or simply finding a fulfilling way to spend their time. Getting involved is highly encouraged, and there's always a great time to do so.

The Importance of Student Organizations

Engaging with fellow USC students through Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) offers invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth. As student-led groups created around shared interests, identities, or goals, RSOs foster a sense of community, provide leadership opportunities, and encourage student engagement. While RSOs may collaborate with university departments, they are expected to be run by students and not operate as extensions of academic programs, administrative offices, or unrecognized groups.

Benefits of Joining an RSO

Community Building: RSOs provide a space for students to connect with like-minded individuals, build lasting friendships, and find a sense of belonging within the larger USC community.
Leadership Development: Serving as an officer in an RSO allows students to gain valuable leadership skills and experience, such as communication, organization, and teamwork.
Skill Enhancement: Participating in RSO activities can help students develop new skills and enhance existing ones, whether it's event planning, fundraising, or public speaking.
Personal Growth: Exploring new interests and passions through RSOs can lead to self-discovery and personal growth, helping students become well-rounded individuals.
Networking Opportunities: RSOs often host events and workshops that provide students with opportunities to network with professionals in their field of interest.

Navigating the USC Student Organization Landscape

USC boasts a diverse range of student organizations catering to various interests and passions. From academic and cultural groups to recreational and service-oriented clubs, there's something for everyone.

Finding the Right Fit

With so many options available, finding the right student organization can seem daunting. However, USC offers several resources to help students navigate the landscape and discover their niche.

Garnet Gate Platform: This online platform serves as a central hub for student organizations, providing information about their missions, activities, and membership requirements. Connecting with others is easy using our Garnet Gate platform.
Campuswide Student Organization Fair: This annual event allows students to meet representatives from various RSOs, learn about their activities, and discover ways to get involved. Take a tour to feel the campus and community vibes.
Campus Activities Office: This office maintains information regarding university-wide student organizations and can provide guidance to students seeking specific types of groups.
Word of Mouth: Talking to friends, classmates, and professors can be a great way to learn about different student organizations and find recommendations based on personal interests.

Types of Student Organizations at USC

USC's student organization landscape can be broadly categorized into the following types:

Academic Organizations: These groups focus on specific academic disciplines or areas of study, providing opportunities for students to deepen their knowledge, network with professionals, and explore career paths. Examples include the Advanced Degree Consulting Club at USC and Biokind Analytics at USC.
Cultural Organizations: These groups celebrate and promote different cultures and ethnicities, fostering understanding, appreciation, and inclusivity within the USC community. Examples include the Armenian Student Association, Asian Greek Council, Black Student Assembly, Latine Student Assembly, Middle Eastern North African Student Assembly, Native American Student Assembly, Nikkei Student Union, Pan African Student Association, and Slavic Cultural Club.
Fraternities and Sororities: USC is home to a vibrant Greek life community, with numerous fraternities and sororities offering social, academic, and philanthropic opportunities. Examples include Alpha Chi Omega Sorority, Alpha Delta Chi Sorority, Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority, Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, Alpha Gamma Alpha Sorority, Alpha Gamma Omega Fraternity, Alpha Phi Sorority, Delta Delta Delta Sorority, Delta Gamma Sorority, Delta Phi Kappa Sorority, Delta Tau Delta Fraternity, Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority, Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority, Kappa Sigma Fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. - Lambda Chapter, Order of Omega, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and Sigma Phi Epsilon.
Professional Organizations: These groups provide students with opportunities to develop professional skills, network with industry leaders, and prepare for their future careers. Examples include the RISK MANAGEMENT SOCIETY AT USC.
Religious and Spiritual Organizations: These groups offer students a space to explore their faith, connect with others who share their beliefs, and engage in spiritual practices. Examples include Bible Every Tuesday and the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life.
Service Organizations: These groups are dedicated to serving the community through volunteer work, fundraising, and advocacy.
Special Interest Organizations: These groups cater to a wide range of hobbies, interests, and passions, providing students with opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and pursue their interests. Examples include the Badminton Club at USC, Casual Art Buddies at USC, Dragon Boat at USC, Emergency Medical Services at USC, Men's Ultimate, Model United Nations of Southern California, Spoiler Alert Improv, The Traveling Gnomes, Trojan Cricket Club, and USC Mock Trial.
Viterbi-Affiliated Student Organizations: The USC Viterbi School of Engineering is home to over 50 unique student organizations, ranging from academic and social groups to community groups, and design and competition teams. These organizations are open to all eligible individuals and enhance the undergraduate and graduate years of study at USC. The Viterbi School of Engineering operates all of its programs and activities consistent with the University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination.

Spotlight on Specific Student Organizations

To provide a glimpse into the diverse range of student organizations at USC, here are some examples:

USC's student-run art, fashion and culture publication: Features the work of current students, USC alumni, L.A. discovered interests.
USC students are growing gaming community: For both casual and competitive levels, open to students at any level.
Daily Trojan: USC's student newspaper, providing news and information about campus events and issues.
El Rodeo: USC's yearbook, capturing the memories and experiences of the graduating class.
KXSC Radio: USC's student-run radio station, providing music and entertainment to the campus community.
Student Symphony Orchestra at USC: A musical ensemble composed of talented student musicians.
Trojan Marching Band: USC's iconic marching band, known for its energetic performances and school spirit.

RSO Recognition and Application Process

To become an officially recognized student organization at USC, groups must apply for RSO recognition status. This status is granted for one academic year (August 1-June 30) and provides access to various resources and benefits, such as funding, event space, and university support.

Recognition Requirements

To be eligible for RSO recognition, groups must meet certain requirements, including:

Having a clear mission and purpose that aligns with the university's values.
Maintaining a membership base of at least five students.
Having a designated faculty or staff advisor.
Adhering to university policies and regulations.

Application Cycles

USC offers two application cycles for RSO recognition:

Fall Recognition Process: Applications from groups who were recognized during the prior academic year are accepted during the Fall recognition process. The Fall recognition application is now live for groups who were recognized during the 2025-26 academic year.
Spring Application Cycle: New RSOs and RSOs whose recognition has lapsed may apply for recognition during the Spring application cycle.

All RSOs are required to submit a recognition application for the 2025-2026 academic year. Approved applications will have official RSO recognition for one academic year (between August 1-June 30). RSO recognition status for groups who were recognized during 2024-25 ended June 30, 2025.

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Additional Resources and Support

USC provides a variety of resources and support services to help students get involved and make the most of their campus experience. These resources include:

Campus Activities: Provides information and resources for student organizations and campus events.
Center for Black Cultural and Student Affairs: Supports the academic, cultural, and social development of Black students at USC.
First Generation Plus Success Center: Provides resources and support for first-generation college students.
International Student Assembly: Represents the interests of international students at USC.
Latinx Chicanx Center for Advocacy and Student Affairs: Supports the academic, cultural, and social development of Latinx and Chicanx students at USC.
Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Plus Student Center: Provides a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ students at USC.
Office of Student Accessibility Services: Provides accommodations and support for students with disabilities.
Undocumented Trojan Success Assembly: Provides resources and support for undocumented students at USC.

A Comprehensive List of USC Student Organizations

Below is a listing of current student organizations at USC.

Academic Culture Assembly
Advanced Degree Consulting Club at USC
Ahmanson Lab
Alpha Chi Omega Sorority
Alpha Delta Chi Sorority
Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority
Alpha Delta Pi Sorority
Alpha Gamma Alpha Sorority
Alpha Gamma Omega Fraternity
Alpha Phi Sorority
Armenian Student Association
Asian Greek Council
Badminton Club at USC
Bible Every Tuesday
Biokind Analytics at USC
Black Student Assembly
Career Center
Casual Art Buddies at USC
Center for Black Cultural and Student Affairs
Core Consulting Group
Daily Trojan
Delta Delta Delta Sorority
Delta Gamma Sorority
Delta Phi Kappa Sorority
Delta Tau Delta Fraternity
Department of Choral and Sacred Music
Department of French and Italian
Dornsife Pre-Health Advising Office
Dornsife Transfer Experience
Dragon Boat at USC
Earthquake Engineering Research Institute-Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
El Rodeo
Emergency Medical Services at USC
Environmental Student Assembly
First Generation Plus Success Center
First Generation Student Assembly
Gamma Phi Beta Sorority
Graduate Student Government
Interfraternity Council
International Student Assembly
Joint Assembly for Military-Associated Students
Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority
Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority
Kappa Sigma Fraternity
Kortschak Center for Learning and Creativity
KXSC Radio
Latine Student Assembly
Latinx Chicanx Center for Advocacy and Student Affairs
Legislative Committee - Academic Affairs
Legislative Committee - Accessibility
Legislative Committee - Affordability
Legislative Committee - External
Legislative Committee - Sustainability
Legislative Committee - Wellness
Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Plus Student Center
Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies
Marshall Artificial Intelligence Association
Marshall Business Student Community
Marshall First Year Experience
Marshall Military Veterans Association
Marshall Undergraduate Career Services
Men's Ultimate
Middle Eastern North African Student Assembly
Model United Nations of Southern California
Multicultural Greek Council
National Pan-Hellenic Council
Native American Student Assembly
Nikkei Student Union
Office of Academic Integrity
Office of Religious and Spiritual Life
Office of Student Accessibility Services
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Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. - Lambda Chapter
Order of Omega
Outside the Box Office
Pan African Student Association
Panhellenic Council
Peaks and Professors
Performing & Visual Arts Fund
Performing Arts Committee
Philanthropy Fund
Political Student Assembly
Pre-Physical Therapy Club
Professional/Academic Research Fund
Queer and Ally Student Assembly
Recreational Sports
RISK MANAGEMENT SOCIETY AT USC
Sigma Alpha Epsilon
Sigma Phi Epsilon
Slavic Cultural Club
Social, Recreation/Startup Fund
Speakers Committee
Spoiler Alert Improv
Student Assembly for Accessibility
Student Assembly for Gender Empowerment
Student Basic Needs
Student Life
Student Publications
Student Symphony Orchestra at USC
The Communications Hub: Academic Writing and Speaking Tutoring for Engineering Ph.D. Students
The Tommys
The Traveling Gnomes
Transfer Student Assembly
Trojan Cricket Club
Trojan Marching Band
Trojan Pride Spirit Committee
Trojan Research Association
Undocumented Trojan Success Assembly
USC Capital Campus
USC Concerts Committee
USC Dornsife Alumni Relations
USC Dornsife Office of Experiential and Applied Learning
USC Emeriti Center
USC Joint Educational Project
USC Libraries
USC Mock Trial
USC Museums
USC Office of Annual Giving
USC Spatial Sciences Institute
USC Student Health

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