Dr. Heidi Houston

Professor

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Biography

Heidi Houston is a Professor at USC Dornsife specializing in Earth Sciences. Her research focuses on earthquake physics and fault mechanics, with specific interests in major plate boundaries, particularly subduction zones, deep earthquakes, and slow slip tremors. Prior to her current role, she was a Professor at the University of Washington and has also worked at UCLA and UC Santa Cruz. Houston obtained her Ph.D. in Geophysics from the California Institute of Technology, and she holds a B.S. in Mathematics from the University of Washington and an M.S. in Physics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She is recognized for her contributions to the understanding of seismic phenomena and continues to be an active researcher in her field.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2018-01-01 — Present

USC Dornsife • Los Angeles, CA

Prof. Houston conducts research and teaches in Earth Sciences.

Professor

— Present

University of Washington • Seattle, WA

Former Professor focusing on Earth Sciences.

Assistant Professor

— Present

UCLA • Los Angeles, CA

Worked in research and education in Earth Sciences.

Researcher

— Present

UC Santa Cruz • Santa Cruz, CA

Contributed to research in geology and seismic activities.

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.