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NORC at the University Chicago

Overview

NORC at the University of Chicago is an independent, nonpartisan research organization that makes news because it makes an impact.

Reliable, Accurate Data

In today’s world, where misinformation is rampant and the credibility of information is constantly being challenged, it is more important than ever to rely on trusted sources of data and analysis. At NORC, we take our responsibility to produce reliable and accurate insights seriously. Our team of experts uses rigorous methodologies and state-of-the-art tools to ensure that our findings are trustworthy and free from bias.

Wide-Ranging, Relevant Insights

Through a wide variety of research projects, including the General Social Survey, surveys conducted by The AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, and our Spotlight series, we produce insights about education, economics, global development, health care, and a host of other newsworthy subjects that will make your journalism more relevant, informative, and noteworthy. Our experts are nationally recognized thought leaders in their fields and dive deeply into some of society’s most important questions and emerging issues.

Support for Journalists and Data Journalism

Journalists and the media are important partners in disseminating our research and maximizing its impact. If you’d like to interview one of our experts or discuss how one or more of our research projects can inform your journalist, please contact Eric Young, Associate Director of External Affairs.

Media Contact

Eric Young
Associate Director of External Affairs

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Media Interviews

NORC experts regularly provide objective, non-partisan commentary and data on a wide range of topics and trends affecting society.

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FAQ

NORC at the University of Chicago is an independent 501(c)3 research organization that was established in 1941 that conducts social science and public opinion research for government, private-sector, and nonprofit decision-makers.

NORC is an independent affiliate of the University of Chicago, with whom we partner on a wide variety of research. More than half of the NORC Board of Trustees is composed of UChicago faculty members.

Our official name is NORC at the University of Chicago. Please refer to us “NORC at the University of Chicago” on first reference and “NORC” on subsequent references. 

NORC is pronounced as a word – “nork” – not as an acronym. 

NORC was once known as the National Public Opinion Center, but we no longer use that name. Our mission is much broader than that now.

NORC welcomes opportunities for its experts to contribute to quality journalism. Start by contacting Eric Young, Associate Director of External Affairs.

Yes. We can accommodate visiting journalists for interviews. We can also arrange for remote interviews via Skype, Zoom, or other methods.

Yes. We have a variety of print- and broadcast-quality materials and visuals that we can share for use with news articles. Tell us what you need.

Our media relations team is happy to hear what you’re interested in and offer suggestions for how our research can enhance your reporting. Start by contacting Eric Young, Associate Director of External Affairs.  

We conduct nonpartisan social science and public opinion research. Our political polling is done strictly on a nonpartisan basis and not for political parties or organizations. The range of topics we cover is reflected in the five main areas of our work:

  •          Economics, Markets, and the Workforce
  •          Education, Training, and Learning
  •          Global Development 
  •          Health and Well-Being
  •          Society, Media, and Public Affairs

We conduct research for some of the largest, most prestigious government, business and nonprofit organizations. They include:

  •          U.S. Social Security Administration
  •          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  •          Federal Reserve Board 
  •          USAID                         
  •          Associated Press
  •          University of Chicago                                
  •          Cornell University                   
  •          Vanderbilt University
  •          Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
  •          Helios Education Foundation
  •          The Welborn Baptist Foundation

NORC employs some of the world’s top research and subject-area experts. In all, NORC has 2,300 employees — 800 permanent employees, 700 telephone interviewers, and 800 field interviewers.

Our main office is in Chicago. We also have offices in the Washington D.C. area, Atlanta, Sacramento, and Boston.

Though NORC should be referred to in news stories and academic articles as “NORC at the University of Chicago,” our legal name is National Opinion Research Center. We are also registered to do business as “NORC.” NORC is an independent 501(c)3 research corporation and is not a part of the University of Chicago.

NORC at a Glance

NORC has been shaping social science research for more than 80 years. Today our business and our team are bigger and more diverse than ever.

500+
Active Projects
NORC experts conduct innovative, nonpartisan research and analysis for governments and organizations around the world.
300M+
Annual Revenue
Our cutting-edge work is funded by national and international government agencies, foundations, corporate, and nonprofit clients who turn to NORC for objectivity and deep expertise.
100+
Countries
NORC’s global portfolio continues to grow. Our international development experts have conducted research in more than 100 countries since 1941.
3,000+
Staff Members
The talented staff at NORC bring a diverse range of skills, education, and cultural backgrounds that strengthen our work. At the height of data collection, NORC employs more than 3,000 staff members across the country.