For many macro-focused social work students, think tanks may be a good vocational fit for both internships and work post-graduation.
Below is a short list of nonprofit and philanthropic organizations that primarily engage in research, analysis, and public policy work. These organizations are sometimes called “think tanks” and are often affiliated with a particular political ideology or specific partisan mission.
Please note that not every think tank listed below will have a current open position for social workers. This list is meant to be a starting place for job and internship seekers.
Check out my social work job of the day. I frequently share job opportunities for macro social workers or social workers who are looking to pivot from micro and mezzo social work roles.
Acton Institute
Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Acton Institute advocates for economic freedom and religious liberty.
Brookings Institute
A nonpartisan think tank that is located in Washington DC. Check out their podcast here.
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
The research-focused Carnegie Endowment is located in Washington DC.
Center for American Progress
Located in Washington DC, the Center for American Progress is “an independent nonpartisan policy institute that is dedicated to improving the lives of all Americans through bold, progressive ideas, as well as strong leadership and concerted action.”
Center for Immigration Studies
The Center is located in Washington DC and has an in-person and remote immigrant studies internship program.
Every Texan
Policy areas include health care, food security, and education.
Foreign Policy Research Institute
Located in Philadelphia, the Foreign Policy Research Institute is focused on foreign policy relations and national security.
Hoover Institution
Located on the campus of Stanford University, the Hoover Institution engages in economic policy and political research.
Oregon Center for Public Policy
The organization’s mission is, “…to achieve economic justice for all Oregonians through research, analysis, and advocacy.”
Rockefeller Institute of Government
Located in Albany, New York, the nonpartisan institute primarily focuses on New York state governmental statistics.
The Urban Institute
This research and policy organization is located in Washington DC.
Policy Jobs Near You
Is there a think tank or a public policy organization near you? Probably!
You can start by using search terms such as “public policy nonprofit,” “think tank organization,” or “research institution” and include your state, city, or municipal area.
Most state capitols will have several government think tanks so that may be another way to start your research. For example, here’s what a Google search for “Austin, Texas think tanks” would yield.
If you have a think tank or policy organization to add to this list, please contact me. I’d love to hear from you.