At the School of Education and Social Policy, world-class researchers in education, learning sciences, psychology, economics, and policy work side by side with exceptional Northwestern students. Together, they’re driven by one goal: to understand human behavior and improve lives through bold ideas and transformative research.
Partnering with our communities in Evanston and greater Chicago is central to our mission. The urgent challenges in education and human development aren’t distant—they unfold in the schools, neighborhoods, and families right next door. At the School of Education and Social Policy, we’re proud to collaborate with local school districts, museums, and community organizations to create lasting, meaningful change where it matters most.
At Northwestern’s School of Education and Social Policy, we take on the world’s toughest social challenges—exploring everything from the biology of stress to educational software design to the forces that shape culture, politics, and the economy. Our faculty and students use cutting-edge theory and innovative research methods to drive change and help individuals and communities thrive.
Through the Office of Community Education Partnerships (OCEP), we’ve built lasting, trust-based relationships across Evanston and Chicago. OCEP brings together research, practice, and service—turning ideas into action through initiatives that improve lives locally and offer scalable models for broader impact. It’s how we ensure that the work we do at Northwestern drives meaningful change in the communities we call home—and beyond.
The Center for Talent Development (CTD) is a national leader in gifted education and talent development. Backed by research and scholarship, CTD offers hundreds of enrichment and accelerated courses for students ages 4 through grade 12, along with dynamic learning communities for parents and educators. We also partner with schools to design customized programs that nurture academic growth and excellence.
The E4 research-practice partnership helps school districts improve student outcomes through timely, rigorous analysis of real-world data. By connecting Northwestern researchers, local districts, and Curriculum Associates, E4 transforms complex data into practical insights that educators can use to drive meaningful change in classrooms every day.
The Morton Schapiro Northwestern Academy for Chicago Public Schools is a free, multiyear college access and enrichment program for high-achieving CPS students from limited-income households. Through academic support, mentorship, and college preparation, the Academy helps students unlock their potential and chart a path to top-tier universities—including Northwestern.