IGS was created a century ago to provide research expertise to the Legislature regarding public issues of the day. Our core mission remains promoting interdisciplinary research with a principal focus on American and California governance, politics, and policy. We bring together faculty members and students from across the Berkeley campus with an interdisciplinary focus not easily replicated by a single department
We are committed to establishing IGS as the place to go for informed analyses and discussions of the important policy and political challenges facing both California and the nation by amplifying the work and accomplishments of our esteemed students, faculty, and leaders.
Our mission is anchored by the belief in the transformational power of public service. IGS’s Robert T. Matsui Center for Politics & Public Service encompasses innovative student programming, internships, and experiential learning programs to provide opportunities and networks for outstanding students, nurturing a new and more diverse set of leaders for California and the nation.
The IGS Library is one of the nation’s major collections in public administration, public affairs, and public policy. The library holds more than 400,000 volumes and is a depository for California local government documents.
Join us Tuesday, April 7th for our 2026 Barbara Boxer Lecture: City, State and Nation - A Conversation with Mayor Barbara Lee, '75.
Voters disengaged and unenthusiastic ahead of gubernatorial primary elections
Cost of living tops wide-ranging list of issues CA voters want next Governor to address
Undocumented Immigrants in California: Evidence from Local Government Publications
co-authored by IGS Co-Director Cristina Mora
Check out our list of career opportunities, internships, and tools for job preparedness!
Check out our spring hours here