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NORC at the University Chicago
From foundational studies like the General Social Survey to in-the-moment surveys on emerging issues, NORC studies the breadth of public opinion.

NORC was founded to survey public opinions and gather data on behaviors and societal trends. While our research scope has grown to include fields as diverse as agriculture, finance, early childhood education, and law enforcement, finding out what people think and examining how these opinions shape their behavior remains an important part of our work.

Through the General Social Survey, NORC’s largest and longest-running opinion survey, we’ve traced the evolution of American opinions on employment and work, civic liberties, immigration, and a host of other issues. Since 1985, we’ve also conducted the International Social Survey Program, which gathers public opinion data from 57 countries around the world. The Associated Press‑NORC Center for Public Affairs Research (The AP-NORC Center) conducts public opinion research on important issues and uses the results of its studies to foster data‑driven journalism. The AP‑NORC Center’s recent studies include surveys of Americans’ opinions about global warming and the cost and accessibility of health care.

Public Opinion & Attitudes Experts

Highlighted Projects

Faith After the Pandemic: How COVID-19 Changed American Worship

The Religion Benchmarks study examined changes in religion over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic

Client:

American Enterprise Institute

Public Views Russia’s Actions in Ukraine as Unjustified

The UChicago/Harris NORC Poll tracked public sentiment of the war between Russia and Ukraine

Client:

University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy

The Media Insight Project

Examine the public’s consumption of and attitudes toward media and journalism

Client:

American Press Institute