Studying in LA – A Guide for Postgraduate Students

As one of the world’s homes to the entertainment industry, Los Angeles is an exciting place to consider for postgraduate study. Whether you’re looking for fast-paced internships, world class education or rich culture to absorb in your time off, the city has plenty to offer.

This guide covers everything you need to know about studying in Los Angeles as a postgrad student, including living costs, the top universities and career opportunities.

LA is a fast moving and innovative city with lots on offer for postgraduate students. Some of the city’s key selling points include:

• Cultural hub: LA has long been home to a wide range of ethnicities, many of which have created their own communities including Chinatown, Littler Armenia and Thai Town.
• Bustling city: With over 841 museums and galleries, multiple famous shopping locations and impressive concert venues, there’s always something to do in the city.
• Entertainment beacon: Being the most famous entertainment hub in the world, LA is a great place to study if you’re interested in creative pursuits.

The second highest ranked university in the city, according to THE, is the University of Southern California (USC). Currently it is considered 74th in the world.

USC is a private university founded in 1880. The graduate departments range from the School of Architecture to the Thornton School of Music.

Although not the most expensive city in the United States, LA is not a particularly cheap place to study. However there are many ways to reduce significant costs, such as rent.

The table above covers prices of renting a private apartment alone. Many postgraduates choose to live in university halls or shared houses with other Masters and PhD students. This can help keep the costs down as utility bills will be split and your rent covers the cost of a room rather than a whole apartment.

Another way to help manage your finances is to work during your studies. International students are able to work if they’re studying a full-time programme and have an F-1 visa. You will be allowed to work up to 20 hours per week on campus during your first year of study. Then, in subsequent years, you may work off campus as well.

Many PhD students take on part-time work within their department, whether that be as a graduate teaching assistant or research assistant. After your first year, you may be able to find more industry-related rolls off campus.

Whether you’re after an exciting day out or an afternoon of culture, there’s lots onoffer in Los Angeles. For the theme park enthusiasts, you’ll be near Universal Studios and Harry Potter World. Any cinema fans may enjoy visiting the Griffith Observatory for a La La Land themed date or heading to Hollywood and following the Walk of Fame.

For those looking for less star-studded activities, The Getty Center is a must visit for anyone interested in art and culture. You’ll also find lots of street art and murals walking along Venice Beach. For the hikers, LA is home to the beautiful Runyon Canyon park.

While there are no official post-study work visas for international students, it’s possible for graduates to stay and build a career in LA. You may choose to complete an OPT (post-study optional practical training) which will grant a one year extension to your student visa while you gain practical work experience. Otherwise you’ll need a temporary or permanent work visa.

While LA is known for the entertainment and tourism industries, business services, international trade and foreign banks all contribute to large parts of the city’s economy. LA’s high population means that it can be quite competitive to secure a job as a graduate. However, technology-driven skills are considered high priority and should give you a higher chance at securing a permanent position.

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