Policy Centers

Launch policy initiatives that affect real lives at Columbia and the surrounding community

Although the Columbia Policy Institute functions as a cohesive whole, it is broken into several policy centers. Each policy center is essentially a small focus group composed of a policy center director and general body members who collectively work on projects throughout the semester. These policy initiatives attempt to impact real policy at the university, city, state, or even federal level.

Each policy center focuses on a specific policy area, such as economic development, energy and the environment, or human rights. All centers are led by students who have been chosen because of their commitment to and passion about these issues. Our policy centers investigate a wide breadth of subjects, allowing students with a variety of interests to work on projects that they are passionate about.

Getting involved in a policy center is a great way to form close connections with other Columbia Policy Institute members and to learn more about areas that you are passionate about. Perhaps best of all, working on a policy center initiative helps you make a legitimate difference in people's lives.

What is a Policy Center?

Gain Expertise in a Specific Policy Area

Build Something

Individual members, not just Center Directors, have the opportunity to affect change, whether it be by leading a weekly policy discussion or spearheading a policy initiative of their own design.

Find Community