The Practical Policy Engagement Program is a university–wide resource housed at the Ford School where it can leverage existing expertise and interdisciplinary approaches to generate policy–relevant research, analysis and learning, as well as improvements in organizational practice.
The program was established in Spring of 2018 with a generous gift from the Power Foundation. The U of M Office of the Provost and the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy also provide support.
Our work centers around three objectives:
Engaged Learning
We're dedicated towards providing students with opportunities to learn about and to impact public policy by working with real-world organizations, government entities and individuals outside the University. Students engage in semester–long applied policy seminars, client–led class projects, capstone projects, summer internships, and a wide variety of engaged learning activities.
Policy Research
We support research that is timely and relevant to impact public policy. Our small grant program for faculty is currently being developed.
Policy Impact
We emphasize action as a result of thoughtful research and learning. A central goal of the program is to translate social science research into policy impact to study that translational exercise for replication and dissemination. The program hosts workshops, conferences, talks, and teach-outs to ensure that students and faculty able to learn the skills needed to translate their research and learning into practical policy action.