Dr. Elisabeth Weiss

Associate Professor

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Biography

Elisabeth Arnold Weiss is an Associate Professor in the Technical Communication Practice at USC's Viterbi School of Engineering, where she focuses on enhancing communication skills for engineers. She teaches Advanced Writing for Engineers, emphasizing character transformation, technology ethics, and the social impact of engineering. Weiss has a robust background in communication education, having taught courses for Ph.D. students and developed innovative programs that promote cross-cultural understanding. She has served as a Principal Investigator on the multidisciplinary Improv Engineers Master Class VR project, collaborating with various stakeholders to create immersive educational experiences. Furthermore, Weiss is known for her involvement in community engagement projects, such as the ATLAS initiative, which focuses on social impact and sustainability through experiential learning. Her dedication to student success is reflected in her founding of mentorship programs and initiatives that cultivate leadership skills among students. This commitment to education has been recognized with several awards, including the USC Mentoring Award and the Viterbi Dean’s Award for Innovation in Teaching and Education. Weiss holds degrees in Literature, Film, and Sociology from the University of Virginia and Claremont Graduate University.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor

1999-01-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Teaching Advanced Writing for Engineers and developing curriculum focused on ethical communication and social impact.

Awards

#2024

USC Mentoring Award

2024-05-10
#2022

USC General Education Writing Award

2022-05-10
#2019

Viterbi Dean’s Award for Innovation in Teaching and Education

2019-05-10

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.