Tsinghua-USC students have already put their new computer skills to work to make the world a better place. After three years of learning, some students aspire to utilize the generative artificial intelligence tool to transform environmental engagement and awareness. Others have developed a keen interest in exploring how technologies can benefit vulnerable groups and disadvantaged communities.

In the post-pandemic world, marked by rapid growth of digital communication and generative AI, there is an increasingly pressing need for talents with strong analytical skills and data-driven thinking to tell unique news stories to the world. It is within this context that the Tsinghua-USC Communication Data Science Dual Degree Program was established in 2019.

The program prominently showcases an interdisciplinary blend of social science and science and technology integration, setting it apart as a trailblazer among similar programs at prestigious universities both in China and abroad. It spans two universities and three schools, including the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, the Viterbi School of Engineering at USC, and the School of Journalism and Communication at THU. It has admitted a total of 39 students since 2020. These students study at TSJC in the first year and embark on their second and half year of study at USC before returning to Tsinghua to wrap up their last semester studies.

The teaching and research faculty at the Tsinghua School of Journalism and Communication (TSJC) consists of a core team of 31 veteran and young academics. The school has also engaged leaders and elites from internationally renowned media organizations to contribute to the teaching staff. USC has several American instructors contributing to the program. The diverse academic backgrounds of the teaching faculty contribute to the interdisciplinary development of the program.

Courses That Captivate

The curriculum offerings provide students with a diverse range of choices, allowing them to derive significant benefits from the courses.

For Ma Xintong, the courses have equipped her with the skills to use data effectively in storytelling and laid a strong foundation for programming. Notably, in the Multimedia Reporting course, Professor Rick Dunham, the Senior Visiting Scholar of THU, showcased numerous innovative data journalism stories. The Data Mining and Analysis course, taught by Professor Lee Miller, the Senior Visiting Scholar of THU, provided practical insights into using the Bloomberg Terminal to extract data. Ma’s favorite course, Risk Communication, with Professor Kuang Kai, not only enhanced her ability to read and write academic English materials, but also ignited her passion for participating in international organizations. This newfound passion drove her contribution to health or environmental campaigns and related research.

The program means different things to different students. While Ma reveled in the communication skills she was learning, third-year student Yang Siying was most pleased by the computer science skills she had mastered.

“The standout course in the program is DSCI510, which focuses on the theory and practical application of Python,” Yang said. “This course not only imparts substantial knowledge but also presents numerous opportunities to enhance grades, striking a perfect balance between learning and performance.”

One aspect that left a lasting impression on Yang was the considerate nature of the Professor Yigal Arens, who provided prompt and effective responses to queries and feedback.

In addition to stimulating coursework, the Tsinghua-USC Communication Data Science Dual Degree Program offers a rich array of extracurricular activities to enhance students’ academic and social experiences. These activities take place at both universities, fostering a vibrant environment where students can immerse themselves in the dynamic fields of data science, information technology, journalism, and communication.

For Yang Siying, “One of the most memorable extracurricular activities at USC was a seminar specifically organized for students in our program.” During this event, students had the opportunity to engage in a lively discussion with professors about their experiences at USC. The professors provided invaluable insights and addressed queries regarding work, study, and further education at USC. “The guidance and support offered during this seminar were immensely helpful in navigating our academic journey and future career paths,” she added.

Ma’s most unforgettable activity during her studies in Los Angeles was participating in the Annenberg TV News (ATVN) department, where she attended workshops that equipped her with skills in writing, editing, and camera operation. The experience mirrored the workings of a real newsroom, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of the news industry in America.

The newsroom of Annenberg Media Center

Campus activities at TSJC are also carefully designed to complement the interdisciplinary nature of the program, enriching students’ personal and academic journeys. The workshops, seminars, and other events all contribute to their holistic development.

Forward-looking Future Plans and Career Trajectories

The program not only equips students with a comprehensive academic foundation but also places a strong emphasis on practical experiences, particularly through internships, to shape their future career trajectories. The integration of theoretical knowledge with industry applications ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the dynamic professional landscape.

“Our program is committed to cultivating ‘news and communication composite talents’ aligned with the evolving needs, characteristics, and talent development concepts of the intelligent media era,” said Professor Jiang QiaoLei, the Co-Director of the Tsinghua-USC Dual Degree Program and the Associate Professor of Tsinghua University School of Journalism and Communication.

Through collaboration with top industry enterprises and establishing practice base agreements with leading companies like SINA and Zhihu, the program provides students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience in diverse roles within top internet companies. For example, the class of 2022 undertook internships at renowned organizations such as CGTN, Microsoft, Tencent, Bytedance, and Baidu, covering areas such as data analysis, product management, and public opinion analysis.

Wang Yaohao’s internship experiences vividly illustrate the program’s impact on shaping future career paths. Engaging in internships at JD.com, Deloitte, and Roland Berger, Wang Yaohao honed his skills in both communication and data science. These experiences provided him with valuable insights into industry research, broadening his perspective and shaping his career aspirations. Wang Yaohao’s aptitude for business analysis, developed through numerous internships, has already led him to identify potential roles in this field.

Ma Xintong’s pivotal involvement in the Green Nexus China project served as a catalyst for her future aspirations. Through this project, she discovered a profound passion for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) data analysis. Ma’s mastery of SQL, R, and Python, acquired through the dual degree program, now positions her as a proficient navigator of the evolving-landscape of data-driven solutions.

Ma's ambitions extend to contributing to health or environmental campaigns within non-governmental organizations. Her story exemplifies how the program empowers students like Ma to gain clarity about their future careers and align their passions with impactful roles, contributing meaningfully to societal changes.

Yang Siying is passionately dedicated to exploring the transformative potential of AI in psychological counseling, with a distinctive emphasis on its application for disadvantaged populations. Her chosen graduation thesis delves into the intricate role of AI in mental health, particularly for individuals facing socio-economic challenges. Throughout her academic journey, Yang has cultivated a profound understanding of various health and medical technologies related to AI.

Reflecting on her future plans, Yang Siying shares, “My decision to pursue a Ph.D. is greatly influenced by my personal interest in academic research, particularly focusing on the older population – a passion nurtured by my experiences in Annenberg courses. The program has equipped me with a solid foundation, empowering me to excel in either path I choose.”

In essence, the Tsinghua-USC Communication Data Science Dual Degree Program is not merely an educational journey. It is a transformative odyssey that propels students to explore diverse career trajectories and discover their unique paths in the ever-evolving landscape of communication and data science to help the needed with the skills they obtained.

“We train professionals in the media industry who will have multifaceted industry skills in both data and communication. They will make noteworthy contribution to the forefront of the media industry after they graduate,” said Professor Jiang. “We welcome more applicants with diverse academic backgrounds who are proactive, passionate about data journalism, and possess an innovative spirit.”

By Ye Wenxiaoyu

Zhang Xi

Yang Ning

Zhang Fangdan

Evender Hsu Zi Qian