Spring 2026 Policy Clerkship (Graduate student)
The Position
National Center for Youth Law
NCYL is a national nonprofit that puts children — especially those pushed to society’s margins — at the center of every fight for justice. For more than 50 years, we have partnered with young people, families, and communities in efforts to dismantle racism, discrimination, and inequity wherever they appear. We recognize that harmful policies don’t affect children in isolation. Each young person’s well-being depends on their family’s stability, their community’s resources, and the opportunities they can access. By working across all systems that shape young people’s lives in a rapidly evolving society, we advance solutions that are holistic, intersectional, and transformative.
Position
NCYL seeks one (1) policy graduate student to support its policy advocacy during the spring of 2026. Under the mentorship of supervising policy staff, the policy clerk will work on projects impacting children and youth. This is a volunteer position and will be remote. NCYL is willing to work with graduate schools to facilitate course credit.
Essential Functions
Research novel issues within youth law and policy
Analyze and interpret data related to youth systems
Develop, collect, and disseminate policy briefs and other resources to state and local stakeholders
Support legislative policy and/or budget campaigns
Support with implementation of recently passed legislation, including community education
Participate in state and local coalitions and provide technical assistance to community partners
Qualifications
Student in a Master’s in Public Policy (MPP) or Master’s in Public Health (MPH) program
Ability to commit 15 hours per week for a minimum of 10 weeks between January and May 2026
Excellent research and writing skills
Knowledge, understanding of, and commitment to NCYL’s mission
Experience and/or interest in NCYL’s areas of focus
Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Demonstrated ability to work independently and complete multiple projects
Excellent communication skills
How To Apply
Applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled or until Nov. 21, 2025. Priority will be given to applications received before Nov. 7, 2025.
Applicants must submit the following:
Resume (not including GPA)
Cover letter describing your particular interest in working for NCYL (including any specific issue areas of interest) and understanding of NCYL’s mission
Writing sample (5-7 pages) that demonstrates analytical skills
Two (2) professional or academic references
We welcome applications from individuals with different ideas, experiences, and perspectives. Applicants who meet the above criteria with lived experience within any of our practice areas are strongly encouraged to apply.
It is the policy of NCYL to provide equal employment opportunities to all Applicants (including Employees) regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, reproductive health decision-making, breastfeeding, national origin, age, abilities/disabilities, neurotypicality, socioeconomic status, veteran status, marital status, prior convictions, or any other protected classifications under federal, state, or local law. NCYL makes all employment decisions based on job-related factors.