The Executive Fellowship Program is sponsored by the Center for California Studies at California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento State) and the Office of the Governor to provide an experiential learning opportunity in California state government. Fellows work full-time in high levels of the executive branch and meet weekly for graduate seminars. This ten-month program uniquely integrates work experience with academic and professional development.

The Executive Fellowship Program aims to facilitate a practical education in California state government, inspire effective and ethical leadership, and promote an appreciation for the complexity, value and rewards of public service. 

Executive Fellows receive a monthly stipend of $1,972 as well as medical, dental and vision benefits.

Academic Seminar:

Fellows attend weekly university graduate seminars and earn graduate units from Sacramento State’s Department of Public Policy and Administration. Seminars provide an academic perspective on policy and administrative issues that are relevant to the public sector. Although some of the units are applicable toward a graduate degree at Sacramento State, separate application to a specific degree program is required. Other universities accept the units on a case-by-case basis.

Office Placement:

Executive Fellows are placed in various levels of California’s executive branch including offices of the Governor, other constitutional officers, cabinet secretaries, commissions and departments. Placement assignments are made based on a combination of the fellow’s interests, skills, background and preferences along with the mutual desirability between the fellow and mentor.  The type of work assignments vary depending on the role of the office and the skills of the fellow.