Dr. Leland Saito

Professor

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Biography

Professor Leland Saito's research examines the significance of race and public policies in urban development and gentrification, with a specific focus on Los Angeles. His work utilizes qualitative research methods, including interviews, archival research, and fieldwork. Saito has studied race relations and urban politics in various locations such as San Diego and New York City. He has authored several significant publications, including 'Building Downtown Los Angeles: Politics Race Place Urban America' and 'Politics of Exclusion: Failure of Race-Neutral Policies in Urban America.' His academic contributions encompass a wide range of topics related to race, ethnic relations, and community studies, establishing him as a key figure in the field. Furthermore, Saito's engagement in administrative roles, such as Director of Graduate Studies in the Sociology Department, complements his academic career, enhancing his influence in curriculum development and mentoring students.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2022-11-17 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Associate Professor

2001-08-01 — 2022-11-17

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Associate Professor

1999-07-01 — 2001-07-01

University of California, San Diego • San Diego, CA

Assistant Professor

1992-07-01 — 1999-07-01

University of California, San Diego • San Diego, CA

Awards

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USC Mentoring Award Faculty Mentoring Graduate Students

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American Sociological Association Section Asia Asian America Book Award

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C. Wright Mills Book Award

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Oliver Cromwell Cox Book Award

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USC Mellon Mentoring Award

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American Sociological Association Section Asia Asian America Book 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.