Photo: Stella Kalinina
The 2023 class of the Master of Science in Project Management program celebrated commencement with their peers, families, and friends on Friday, May 12, on USC’s University Park Campus. Graduates traveled from 18 states to seal the completion of their master’s degree and embark on the next chapter of their professional journeys.
This year’s commencement speaker was Dr. Theodore R. Johnson, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice professor at Bovard College, political scientist, author, and senior advisor with New America, whose work focuses on the role of race in electoral politics, the national narrative, and American identity.
In Johnson’s address to the graduates, he expounded on his journey of switching careers from a U.S. Navy Commander to a scholar and author “who thinks about our country, our democracy, and our racial and ethnic diversity.” He encouraged graduates to “create something new and add to it,” as it related to improving themselves and pursuing difficult challenges. Johnson also reminded the graduating Trojans that their life gives them unique insight into our society’s problems. “Share your story. Build on it. Question It. Challenge it.,” he urged.
As the students are ready to tackle the next step of their professional journeys, they have not only earned a master’s degree but also the knowledge and skills to lead and implement strategies for top organizations. Michael Faia, MSPM professor and recipient of the Bovard College 2023 Faculty Award for Excellence in Service and Leadership, commends the graduates on this significant accomplishment.
Faia reflected on his time educating the next generation of project managers and explained that he has no doubts that the program has prepared graduates to tackle what’s ahead. But first, he says, “Soak in commencement, network with your peers and faculty, and enjoy things how they are today.”
Commencement is a celebratory time for faculty as well, providing them the opportunity to realize the impact they’ve had on their students. “During their time in the program, I hope graduates have learned the importance of adaptability, flexibility, and effective communication,” says MSPM professor and U.S. Air Force Veteran Marcus Butler. “Project management is a constantly evolving field, and the ability to adapt to change and communicate effectively is crucial for success.”
Graduates will be able to do just that – in their roles across various industries, including engineering, aerospace, automotive, technology, and more.
Students in the program explore every concept needed for professional success – including portfolio and product management, technical project delivery, Agile, and change management. Dean Anthony Bailey declared in his Commencement speech, “Our Project Management graduates are ready to strategically deploy the latest tools in implementing mission-critical projects across industries.” Courses also prepare students to lead in this evolving field, managing in a global context with ethical and principled leadership and social responsibility.
Designed to fit students’ schedules, the MS in Project Management program is provided in both a one- and a two-year track. At 24 units, the program can be completed in just 12 months for students in the one-year track. No GRE is required, and students have their choice of three enrollment dates each year.
Watch the 2023 commencement ceremony here.
Learn more about earning your MS in Project Management from USC Bovard College.