The Harris Social Impact Fellowship, offered by the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 cohort. This prestigious, full-time 11-month fellowship prepares recent graduates and early-career professionals to transform evidence into real-world impact through policy, data analytics, and research.

Designed for individuals with strong STEM and analytical backgrounds, the fellowship aims to cultivate technically skilled professionals ready to address complex societal challenges. Through a blend of academic training, applied research, and mentorship, fellows gain the expertise needed to lead evidence-based change across sectors.

Program Overview

The fellowship runs from July 2026 to June 2027 and is based in person at the University of Chicago’s Hyde Park campus. Each year, a small cohort of about 15 fellows is selected to participate, ensuring an intimate, collaborative learning environment.

Over 11 months, fellows undergo a structured program that combines rigorous coursework, hands-on fieldwork, and a culminating capstone project. The program prepares them to apply data-driven methods to public policy challenges in areas such as education equity, climate action, public safety, and government efficiency.

A Roadmap to Impact

The fellowship follows a three-phase structure:

Summer Quarter: Orientation and Academic Coursework

The journey begins with eight weeks of intensive academic training. Fellows take faculty-led courses in data analytics, economic analysis, and analytical politics, developing critical skills in quantitative reasoning, cost-benefit analysis, and policy design.
The summer term also includes team-building and community-oriented activities designed to foster collaboration and civil discourse among fellows.

Autumn to Spring Quarters: Applied Learning

Over the next nine months, fellows work directly with top research centers and policy institutes, applying their technical expertise to real-world projects. These placements tackle pressing global issues such as climate change, educational access, and health equity.
This applied phase allows fellows to translate theory into action—gaining invaluable experience in research, program evaluation, and policy innovation.

Spring Quarter: Capstone Project

In the final stage, fellows synthesize their learning into a Capstone Project. Working with mentors and project partners, each fellow designs and implements a data-driven initiative addressing a real-world social or policy challenge.
The capstone serves as both a portfolio piece and a launchpad for future opportunities, as fellows often present their findings to policymakers, nonprofits, and academic audiences.

Academic Curriculum

During the initial academic phase, fellows are immersed in three core courses:

• Data Analytics: Emphasizes evidence generation, quantitative analysis, and machine learning applications for public policy.

• Economic Analysis: Covers microeconomics, public finance, and cost-benefit evaluation to enhance decision-making.

• Analytical Politics: Examines governance systems and political behavior to better understand institutional dynamics and strategy.

These courses provide a strong foundation for addressing real-world issues with technical rigor and strategic insight.

Professional Development and Mentorship

Beyond academics, the Harris Social Impact Fellowship offers an unparalleled mentorship experience. Fellows receive one-on-one career coaching, network with sector leaders and alumni, and participate in professional development workshops tailored to leadership and communication skills.

Throughout the program, fellows have access to employer connections, targeted networking events, and opportunities to refine their professional portfolios. This combination of technical mastery and practical guidance empowers participants to become influential voices in the fields of policy, governance, and social innovation.

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Eligibility and Application Requirements

The fellowship is open to:

• Recent graduates or early-career professionals with demonstrated technical or analytical experience.

• Candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree by July 2026.

• Applicants legally authorized to work in the United States.

Applicants must submit:

• Motivation statement

• Technical experience statement

• Resume

• One letter of recommendation

• Academic transcripts

Key Deadlines

• Priority Deadline: October 19, 2025

• Secondary Deadline: December 7, 2025

The selection process includes multiple rounds: application submission, technical assessment, virtual interview, and an on-campus interview day. Early submission is highly encouraged, as the application portal may close once all fellowship spots are filled.

Click here to apply.

Why Apply?

The Harris Social Impact Fellowship is more than a training program—it is a launchpad for a mission-driven career. Graduates emerge with the skills, networks, and confidence to lead innovative, evidence-based initiatives in government, academia, and the nonprofit sector.
With mentorship from top faculty and exposure to policy innovation at one of the world’s leading research universities, fellows are well-positioned to become the next generation of social impact leaders.

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