Dr. Peter Westwick

Professor

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Biography

Peter Westwick is a professor at the University of Southern California in Thematic Option History. His research interests focus on the history of modern science and technology, particularly in Southern California and during the Cold War, encompassing themes of international relations and national security. Westwick has authored multiple books, including 'Stealth: Secret Contest to Invent Invisible Aircraft,' which was published by Oxford University Press in 2020. He has also contributed to works that explore the relationship between aerospace development and California culture, as well as historical perspectives on national laboratories and scientific internationalism. In addition to his published works, he has held significant academic positions, including a postdoctoral fellowship at Caltech and various visiting lectureships. Westwick has engaged in a variety of public outreach efforts and has been recognized with multiple awards for his contributions to aerospace history literature. His academic journey features a Ph.D. in History from UC Berkeley, which he completed in 1999, along with an M.A. and B.A. from the same institution.

Research Interests

Experience

Assistant Professor (Research)

2009-01-01 — 2015-12-31

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Conducted research and taught undergraduate courses in the thematic option history program.

Postdoctoral Fellow

1999-01-01 — 2000-12-31

Caltech • Pasadena, CA

Engaged in research on science and technology issues in relation to national security.

Visiting Temporary Appointments

2005-01-01 — 2014-12-31

Various • California

Held various appointments including an Eleanor Searle Visiting Professorship and Huntington Fellow/Lecturer roles.

Awards

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Gardner-Lasser Aerospace History Literature Award

2012-01-01
#

Eugene M. Emme Astronautical Literature Award

2007-01-01
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Book Prize

2004-01-01

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.