The Unruh Institute of Politics is committed to bringing the academy and the public square together. As such, the Institute offers a Research Internship course that allows students to conduct extensive research and analysis on policy issues facing local, state, and federal government.
About the Policy Research Internship
Students will have the opportunity to work directly with partnering organizations. Examples of partnering organizations from previous semesters include the NALEO Education Fund, Green Dot Public Schools, Los Angeles City Council Offices, and California Strategies.
Students take part in a team-based research project where they will work to develop solutions in their respective policy areas by conducting interviews with policy experts, review academic and policy reports, and other primary and secondary sources. At the conclusion of the program, each team presents their final product to the partnering organization.
Fall 2024 Research Projects:
“Displacement and Affordable Housing in Los Angeles” with the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office
Bi-weekly Meetings: Wednesdays from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. PT
The high cost and low availability of housing in Los Angeles remain a top challenge for Angelenos. The city aims to build 490,000 new housing units by 2029. Although increasing the supply of affordable housing is a key strategy to address this challenge, new developments can lead to the displacement of current residents.
Students will investigate the question: “How does new development impact the displacement of residents, and what solutions can address both the affordable housing supply and displacement issues in Los Angeles?” They will also assess whether the projected housing needs accurately reflect the current shortage.
Through research and data visualization—using tools such as infographics, spreadsheets, and more—students will compile their findings into a slide deck and final report. These presentations and reports will be shared with the LA City Attorney’s Office, offering valuable insights into the intersection of urban development, housing markets, and social safety nets.
“Impact of Technology on Political Participation” with NationBuilder
Bi-weekly Meetings: Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. PT
Technology has continually transformed political engagement, from the printing press that dramatically increased literacy and the spread of ideas to the internet’s rise as a platform for digital activism. This course investigates how technology influences political participation in its many forms—whether it’s fundraising, running for office, organizing social movements, or volunteering.
Students will address the core question: “How does and how should technology facilitate political participation?” By examining case studies, exploring different technological and non-technological spaces, and analyzing the impact of technology on various political activities, students will critically assess how technology enhances and impedes political involvement.
Through research and data visualization—using infographics, spreadsheets, and other tools—students will present their final findings and recommendations in a slide deck, verbal presentation, and written report. These presentations and reports will be shared with Nation Builder, providing real-world insights into the evolving intersection of technology and political engagement.
Spots are limited and competitive. We encourage all interested USC students to apply.
To Apply:
The application for the Fall 2024 POSC 395 Policy Research Internship is now closed. The application will reopen for the Spring 2025 POSC 395 Policy Research Internship in January 2025.
Please send any questions about the Policy Research Internship to unruhins@usc.edu.