LEFT-CENTER BIAS
These media sources have a slight to moderate liberal bias. They often publish factual information that utilizes loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by appealing to emotion or stereotypes) to favor liberal causes. These sources are generally trustworthy for information but may require further investigation. See all Left-Center sources.
- Overall, we rate USC Annenberg as Left-Center Biased due to its emphasis on diversity, equity, representation in media, and technological ethics, which align with progressive themes. We rate its reporting as Highly Factual as it is affiliated with a university, relies on academic research, and produces investigative work based on mainstream journalistic standards.
Detailed Report
Bias Rating: LEFT-CENTER (-3.4)
Factual Reporting: HIGH (1.0)
Country: USA
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: MOSTLY FREE
Media Type: Organization/Foundation
Traffic/Popularity: Minimal Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: HIGH CREDIBILITY
History
USC Annenberg is a communication and journalism school within the University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1971 through a gift from publishing magnate Walter H. Annenberg, the school focuses on journalism, public relations, and communication research. USC Annenberg provides students with hands-on experience in news production and runs initiatives such as the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative. The school also administers the Selden Ring Award for Investigative Journalism, which honors investigative reporting that leads to societal change.
Read our profile on the United States media and government.
Funded by/ Ownership
USC Annenberg is part of the University of Southern California (USC), a private research university. Funding comes from tuition, donations, endowments, and grants. The school was founded through a donation from Walter H. Annenberg, and it continues to receive financial contributions from individuals, foundations, and media organizations. It does not operate on a subscription or advertising model for funding.
Analysis / Bias
USC Annenberg primarily covers media, journalism, communication research, and public relations, focusing on investigative reporting, diversity, and media representation. The institution produces research-driven reports through its Annenberg Inclusion Initiative and other academic programs.
For example, the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative studies representation in the media industry, including gender and racial diversity. Its 2025 report on women in music found that while women have maintained visibility in the industry, gender disparities persist, particularly in leadership roles. This aligns with progressive themes in media representation, often advocating for industry-wide change.
In addition to media studies, USC Annenberg analyzes technological shifts in communication. The 2025 study on AI in Public Relations examined the increasing role of artificial intelligence in public relations, highlighting ethical concerns, transparency issues, and shifts in industry practices. While the study presents data-driven findings, it raises questions about AI’s long-term impact on communication without endorsing a specific stance.
USC Annenberg also promotes investigative journalism. The school administers the Selden Ring Award for Investigative Journalism, recognizing reporting that leads to societal change. In 2025, the award was given to Katey Rusch and Casey Smith for their “Right to Remain Secret” investigation, which exposed failures in public records laws, reinforcing the school’s commitment to journalistic accountability and transparency.
In conclusion, USC Annenberg produces research and journalism that align with mainstream academic and journalistic standards while emphasizing diversity, equity, and technological advancements in media. Its research and awards focus on media ethics, transparency, and industry accountability, positioning it within the mainstream but slightly progressive-leaning media discourse.
Failed Fact Checks
- None in the Last 5 years
Overall, we rate USC Annenberg as Left-Center Biased due to its emphasis on diversity, equity, representation in media, and technological ethics, which align with progressive themes. We rate its reporting as Highly Factual as it is affiliated with a university, relies on academic research, and produces investigative work based on mainstream journalistic standards. (M. Huitsing 02/09/2025)
Source: https://annenberg.usc.edu/
Last Updated on February 9, 2025 by Media Bias Fact Check
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Left vs. Right Bias: How we rate the bias of media sources