If he goes into a PhD program directly, he will most likely have funding and health insurance. Brown financial aid told us not to worry so much about grad school cost.
I have never been to USC but have had a kid at Brown undergrad and a kid at UCSD for doctorate.
I would think he could get into a good grad program from any of the three.
Brown is my favorite school. I love the curriculum (no gen eds), the campus, the location and the “vibe.” But if it is much more expensive and tough to swing, he has two excellent choices as well.
Do you perceive Brown as more prestigious than USC? I think all 3 are impressive schools.