Apply now for The Harris Social Impact Fellowship, an 11-month paid program at the University of Chicago that prepares early-career professionals to drive evidence-based change in education, climate, and public policy.
In a world where data and technology are reshaping every sector, the ability to apply analytical skills to solve social problems is invaluable. The Harris Social Impact Fellowship, offered by the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, is designed for technically skilled graduates and early-career professionals who want to become the next generation of evidence-based changemakers.
This 11-month, full-time fellowship (July 2026 – June 2027) combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on applied learning. Fellows are immersed in real-world policy challenges across domains like education, public safety, health equity, and climate action – developing the tools to move from data to decision-making.
Unlike traditional graduate programs, The Harris Social Impact Fellowship blends the academic rigor of the University of Chicago with professional immersion. Fellows spend the first eight weeks on campus completing faculty-led coursework in three pillars:
Data Analytics – building skills in quantitative analysis, program evaluation, and the use of AI and machine learning to assess policy effectiveness.
Economic Analysis – understanding cost-benefit analysis, microeconomic theory, budgeting, and public finance to design efficient, equitable policies.
Analytical Politics – applying political philosophy and game theory to real-world governance challenges.
After this academic foundation, fellows embark on a nine-month applied learning placement with one of Chicago’s leading research or policy institutes – for example, the Urban Labs – Education Lab, the Crime Lab, or the Mansueto Institute for Urban Innovation. Each host site offers an opportunity to engage in data-driven projects with measurable social outcomes.
Finally, the experience culminates in a Capstone Project, where fellows design and present a real-world policy initiative that demonstrates their technical, analytical, and leadership skills.
Duration: 11 months (July 2026 – June 2027)
Format: Full-time | In-person | Hyde Park Campus
Cohort Size: Approximately 15 fellows
The first two months are spent on campus in an intensive learning environment. Fellows participate in orientation, cohort-building activities, and advanced coursework in quantitative reasoning, economics, and public policy.
Fellows join mission-driven organizations to apply their new skills to real problems. Example placements include:
Behavioral Insights and Parenting Lab, advancing human potential through behavioral science.
Education Lab, supporting equitable learning outcomes for all students.
Crime Lab, developing evidence-based approaches to improve public safety.
Each fellow produces a capstone report addressing a policy challenge. These projects are often presented to policymakers and research partners, providing a strong professional credential for future employers.
Competitive Funding: US $75,000 stipend for living and healthcare expenses, plus US $21,000 to cover the academic credential.
Exclusive Mentorship: Access to University of Chicago faculty, including leaders such as Austin Wright, Ariel Kalil, Jens Ludwig, and Chris Berry.
Career Coaching: Individualized guidance helps fellows define their career direction, refine résumés, and connect with employers in the social, public, and private sectors.
Networking and Alumni Community: Graduates remain part of an active network that includes annual retreats, professional connections, and junior-board placement opportunities.
These elements make The Harris Social Impact Fellowship not only a training program, but a launchpad for long-term professional growth.
The program is ideal for:
Early-career professionals with degrees in STEM, economics, statistics, social sciences, or public policy.
Individuals with demonstrated analytical experience who want to apply quantitative tools for social good.
Applicants eligible to work in the U.S. (visa sponsorship is not available).
Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree before July 2026. A strong motivation for evidence-based social impact is essential.
Applications for the July 2026 Cohort are open now.
Round 1 Deadline: October 19, 2025
Round 2 Deadline: December 7, 2025 (or earlier if the cohort fills)
Application link: 👉 Apply Now
Request Information: 👉 Request Info Form
Contact: SocialImpactFellowship@uchicago.edu
Applicants will submit:
Résumé or CV
Statement of Purpose
Transcript of Records
One letter of recommendation
Tips: highlight quantitative projects, policy interest, and real-world problem-solving experience.
Graduates of The Harris Social Impact Fellowship have gone on to work at leading institutions such as the World Bank, Brookings Institution, Urban Institute, and Mathematica Policy Research. Their contributions span evidence-based education reform, sustainable urban development, and data-driven governance.
As Dean Ethan Bueno de Mesquita emphasizes, this program allows fellows to “study the most rigorous tools for analysing what really works – while making genuinely meaningful, direct contributions to public service.”
The Harris School’s focus on quantitative reasoning and civic innovation ensures that every fellow graduates ready to turn evidence into lasting social impact.
Apply today for The Harris Social Impact Fellowship and join a community of innovators driving measurable change. Start your journey at info.harris.uchicago.edu/social-impact-fellowship.
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