Dr. C Nikias

Professor

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Biography

C. L. Max Nikias is currently a Professor in the Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Southern California (USC) and holds the Malcolm R. Currie Chair in Technology and the Humanities. He is a President Emeritus and Life Trustee of USC. His tenure has seen USC ascend to be recognized as a global research university of elite academic status, driven by strategic initiatives to recruit world-class faculty, broaden international presence, and enhance the quality and diversity of the student body. Dr. Nikias is known for his pioneering research in digital signal processing and biomedicine, with innovations adopted by the U.S. Department of Defense. He has authored over 275 journal articles, holds eight patents, and has mentored more than 30 PhD scholars. He is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and has received numerous accolades for his contributions to academia and public service, including the IEEE Simon Ramo Medal and the distinguished alumni award from the State University of New York at Buffalo. His leadership in fundraising campaigns has set records in higher education, and he has been instrumental in major construction projects at USC, revitalizing its campus and academic programs.

Research Interests

Experience

President

2010-01-01 — 2018-01-01

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Led the university during its transformational period and significantly increased fundraising efforts, culminating in a campaign that raised $7 billion.

Provost and Executive Vice President

2005-01-01 — 2010-01-01

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Oversaw the academic agenda and was integral in fostering academic momentum.

Dean

2001-01-01 — 2005-01-01

USC Viterbi School of Engineering • Los Angeles, CA

Solidified the school's position as a leading institution in engineering, expanding its biomedical engineering enterprise and distance-learning programs.

Awards

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IEEE Simon Ramo Medal

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State University of New York at Buffalo Distinguished Alumni Award

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.