Housed in the Center on Equity Research, NORC Equity Scholars supports advanced doctoral students, postdocs, and early career professionals in a rigorous social science research project. Scholars build skills and expand their ability to conduct inclusive and equitable (I&E) research, including culturally responsive research and evaluation (CREE). More broadly, the Equity Scholars program aims to expand the pipeline of historically marginalized, minoritized, and excluded populations pursuing careers in social science research. 

Equity scholars receive mentoring and participate in career networking opportunities under the supervision of NORC staff. Additionally, NORC staff have much to learn from the Equity Scholars. The program supports research aimed at enhancing the understanding of, creation, or assessment of interventions, policies, and practices meant to eliminate disparities and reduce inequality in various dimensions. These dimensions include race, ethnicity, national origin, language, color, disability, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status, veteran status, and family structures.