University Policy Centers and Institutes: The Think Tank as Public Service Function

Abstract

Public policy centers and institutes are a growing and visible part of many universities. They appear to be a cross between a think tank and an academic unit that provides public service. Such centers and institutes focus on policy research and facilitation of public discourse. A national survey reveals the faculty role in their work, the applied multidisciplinary nature of their activities, and the impact they have on public policy-making.