Dr. Sean Kennedy

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Sean Kennedy is a Clinical Assistant Professor at USC Annenberg, where he serves as the director of the Trojan Debate Squad. His research interests revolve around rhetorics, economics, and technological innovation. He teaches a variety of courses including rhetoric, persuasion, and public speaking. Kennedy completed his PhD at the University of Kansas, where he was an accomplished debater, recognized as a top speaker at the CEDA Nationals and a quarterfinalist at the National Debate Tournament. His doctoral dissertation investigates the discourses surrounding innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly within the context of Silicon Valley and companies like Apple. Kennedy's work highlights the intersection between entrepreneurial narratives, disruptive innovation, and public perception, revealing significant implications for economic policy and issues of inequality. He has also served as a graduate assistant coach, contributing to award-winning debate teams. His accolades include the Teddy Albiniak Award for Outstanding Instruction and top paper awards at national conferences.

Research Interests

Experience

Clinical Assistant Professor

— Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Directs the Trojan Debate Squad and conducts research on rhetorics, economics, and technological innovation.

Awards

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Teddy Albiniak Award

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Top Paper

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Top Paper

Courses

COMM 322: Argumentation Advocacy COMM 380: Forensics Laboratory

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.