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Institute for Social Research College of Social Sciences & Interdisciplinary Studies

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About the Institute

Who We Are

The Institute for Social Research (ISR) is a growing, interdisciplinary, applied research center situated at Sacramento State Downtown. With a rich 35-year history, ISR specializes in conducting program evaluations and research studies for state and local agencies, community organizations, private foundations, and educational institutions. Our team of 18 research professionals are active members of the communities we serve.

Meet the Team

Our Values

  • We work collaboratively to customize studies for our partners’ research needs.
  • We operate with scientific integrity.
  • We integrate the expertise of partners and communities.
  • We are committed to growing the next generation of applied researchers.
  • We recognize research is more meaningful and valid when grounded in the contexts of communities we seek to understand.
  • We ensure research results are accessible.
  • We position our partners for future success.

What We Do

We offer a range of applied research services that deliver actionable insights to our partners, helping to inform policy decisions and program improvements:

Image: bulleted list: Population and community assessment, program and grant evaluations, policy studies, public opinion polling, survey design, administration, and analysis, reserach project management, qualitative and quantitative data collection, data management and analysis, training and technical assistance, learning and developmental evaluation, community-bsed and participatory research, and Institutional Review Board (IRB)

How We Work

Our collaborative approach emphasizes strong partnerships with community organizations, government agencies, and others. From research design through final reporting, we work closely with partners and communities to understand their unique programs and contexts. We develop workplans with clear deliverables and timelines for each project, ensuring effective communication and transparent methods. This approach has earned us a reputation as a trusted research partner, leading to long-term relationships with numerous agencies and organizations, such as:

Image: bulleted list: City and County of Sacramento, California Department of Public Health, Govenor's office of Businiess and Economic Development, National Center for Youth Law, Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, Elk Grove Unified School District, Board of State and Community COrrections, Yolo Food Bank, Delta Stewardship COuncil. Community Against Sexual Harm (CASH), Sacramento County CHildren's Coalition, California Department of Aging

Work With Us

Many of our projects begin with an informal conversation. Please reach out to us if you would like a consultation about your research or evaluation needs.

ISR’s contracts and grants are managed by Sponsored Programs Administration within University Enterprises, Inc. (UEI). UEI provides comprehensive fiscal services ensuring all projects adhere to state requirements and maintain fiscal accountability. ISR research project budgets are based on direct costs using University-approved hourly rates, as well as standard university administrative fees. ISR uses the California Model Agreement (CMA) for contracting with State of California agencies.

Download the above description of ISR services.