Dr. Mina Chow

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Mina Chow is an award-winning interdisciplinary filmmaker and licensed architect, serving as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Southern California's School of Architecture. With degrees in Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley and a Master of Architecture from Harvard University, Chow merges filmmaking with public scholarship and interdisciplinary teaching. Her work often explores the intersection of design, culture, and media, highlighted in her notable publications like "Suspended Spectacle: Public Diplomacy Expo 2020 Dubai." Chow has received recognition such as the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects for her contributions to public service and documentary filmmaking. She has also acted as a design history consultant for the U.S. Department of State. In 2022, her PBS documentary, "FACE OF A NATION: What Happened to the World’s Fair?" had significant international exposure. Through her teaching, she aims to impart a deep understanding of the intrinsic properties of materials and the contextual nature of architectural design to undergraduate engineering students, fostering critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills.

Research Interests

Awards

#2024

Arnold W. Brunner Grant

2024-02-20
#2021

AIA Fellowship

2021-03-10

Courses

Building Science Foundation Studio Professional Practice

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.