Dr. Laurie Brand

Professor

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Biography

Laurie Brand is a renowned academic in the fields of Political Science, International Relations, and Middle East Studies, holding the position of Robert Grandford Wright Professor at the University of Southern California since 2009. She obtained her Ph.D. in Comparative Politics from Columbia University in 1985. Over her career, Brand has held significant administrative roles, including director of the Center for International Studies and the Middle East Studies Program. As a past president of the Middle East Studies Association North America and an influential member of various research clusters, her scholarly work centers on the political dynamics of the Middle East and North Africa, focusing on state-expatriate relations, migration, and academic freedom. Brand has published extensively, contributing to the understanding of national narratives and regional studies, particularly through her notable books and articles examining the political economy of the region. Her work has been recognized with several prestigious awards and grants, highlighting her impact on the field.

Research Interests

Experience

Robert Grandford Wright Professor

2009-09-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Professor

1999-08-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Associate Professor

1995-08-01 — 1999-08-01

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Assistant Professor

1989-08-01 — 1995-08-01

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Assistant Director

1984-12-01 — 1989-07-01

Institute Palestine Studies • Washington, D.C.

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.