The Upper Midwest Regional Center on Public Policy is a research and educational organization whose purpose is to provide a better understanding of political and governmental processes in this portion of the nation.  It integrates interdisciplinary research by faculty and links the University to public and private partners throughout the region.

The Center fulfills this mission by: 1) conducting timely, in-depth research concerning key policy areas; 2) exploring the underlying dynamics behind elections and policy throughout the upper Midwest; 3) working with undergraduate and graduate students as they apply the basic methods of political analysis; and 4) sponsoring public forums and community outreach efforts. 

The Center studies public opinion in regards to both policy and politics, evaluates the effectiveness of public policy, and examines the fiscal processes through which public entities fund themselves.  In this way, the Center contributes to North Dakota State University’s mission as a land-grant institution.