Labor Summer Research Internship Program
The UCLA Labor Summer Research Internship Program offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in an applied research experience focused on the Los Angeles labor movement that is leading national efforts to promote social justice for working people. This research-oriented summer institute will introduce students to qualitative applied research methods utilized by researchers and scholars engaged in labor relations and workplace studies. Through a combination of lectures, key readings, and active participation in a hands-on research internship with local organizations, students will be able to develop an understanding of the critical debates regarding the role of research and the socio-economic contexts that impact low-wage workers and their families.
The Labor Summer Research Internship Institute involves a research seminar where students engage in an intensive study on workers' experiences and the labor movement's past and present role in American society; along with a supervised research internship in an organization concerned with workplace issues. In previous years, students have interned with the following organizations: the LA County Federation of Labor, AFSCME Local 3299, Bus Riders Union, Black Worker Center, the CLEAN Carwash Campaign, Community Coalition, Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy, National Day Labor Organizing Network, SCOPE, SEIU Locals 1877, 347, 660, and 434B, South Asian Network, and UNITE HERE Locals 11 and 52.
During the six week Summer Sessions Institute, classes meet at the UCLA Downtown Labor Center, 675 S. Park View St., Los Angeles, CA 90057 (near MacArthur Park in Downtown Los Angeles). Students are required to spend an additional fifteen hours each week for five weeks at their respective research placement sites. The eight units of course credit are valid for upper division credit and can be used toward the Labor and Workplace Studies Minor.
For more information:
Please visit the Summer Sessions website or contact Internship Coordinator Ciarys Najera. Financial aid is available to qualified UCLA undergraduate students. All other students should inquire about financial aid at their home institution.