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Social Sciences Data: ICPSR and More

This guide provides information about locating datasets for use in the social sciences (with a bit about data in the humanities and big data in STEM fields). It also has resources on using datasets (including in teaching) and associated issues.

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Lorena O'English
Contact:
Terrell Library 120-D
Washington State University

Office Hours: (Spring, 2023): Click the "Schedule Appointment" link above to set up a Zoom appointment, or email me directly via the button (which I recommend).

Spring 2023 Update: New/Newish Helpful WSU Libraries Resources and Services

JSTOR  - we have access to ALL of JSTOR's journal content (including the Security Studies module) through the end of June 2023.

Update 2: ICPSR Access Tips

Quick Tips 

Having trouble downloading data or accessing other ICPSR resources? Try these things first (instructions below):
  • Open a new private or "incognito" browser window and copy/paste this address into the search bar: https://www.icpsr.umich.edu/. Retry your login. 
  • Reset your password
  • Connect to your institution's VPN, if available

Resetting Your Password

Just need a quick password reset? Visit the Password Reset Request page, or email ICPSR Web Support at icpsr-websupport@umich.edu.

 

Email Validation 

Typically, ICPSR will automatically recognize your institution and validate your account. If you're trying to download data and receive an unexpected alert that you're not from a member institution, even though you are, your account may need to be validated. We can update this manually.

To request a validation, send an email to icpsr-help@umich.edu. Include your name, your institutional email address, and the name of your institution. 
 

VPN

Does your institution use a VPN (Virtual Private Network internet connection)? Each VPN is configured differently, but for most institutions, you can use your VPN to access your ICPSR account.
  1. Log into your VPN using the instructions provided by your institution 
  2. Open a browser window and navigate to icpsr.umich.edu
  3. Click "log in" on the top right
Your library or IT team may have additional information available, please contact them for VPN assistance. 
 

Proxy Servers

Please note that we do not recommend using a proxy server, as it can produce issues including incomplete search results and significantly slower downloading times. However, we understand that proxy servers are sometimes necessary. As proxy information is configured at the institutional level, unfortunately the ICPSR team is unable to help with troubleshooting.

If you are at an institution using a proxy server, we suggest the following steps:
  1. Authenticate via your proxy server
  2. Open a new browser tab
  3. Copy/paste the following URL: https://www.icpsr.umich.edu/

Are you in charge of setting up the proxy server at your institution? Please take a look at the following resources Are you at a member institution? Your library or department may have additional information, please contact them for proxy assistance. 

Other FAQs

More help is available! Take a look at our frequently asked questions page for, "What do I do if I'm having trouble logging in with my MyData Account? What about changing my email address or password?"

Additional support is available, visit Get Help with Data.
 

Still on campus? Sign in now for future remote access

Log in to ICPSR for continuing remote access
Take a moment now to sign into your MyData account. This will validate you for six months of ICPSR data and resources just in case things change. Visit https://icpsr.umich.edu and click "log in" at the top right.
 

Support From Your Institution

Are you at a member institution? Find your institution on the ICPSR Membership List. Your Official and/or Designated Representative are a great place to get support! You might also find Research Guides at your Library and other on-demand resources available directly from your institution.
 

We're Here To Help

Please feel free to contact ICPSR-help@umich.edu for any questions or ideas.

Other WSU Libraries Guides of Interest

Public Opinion/Polling Data

About this Guide...

Announcements from ICPSR:

https://www.icpsr.umich.edu/icpsrweb/about/cms/news - Includes new/updated studies and more.

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