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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Policy Analysts.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Policy Analysts.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 6%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Develop and test theories, using information from interviews, newspapers, periodicals, case law, historical papers, polls, or statistical sources.
Maintain current knowledge of government policy decisions.
Teach political science.
Becoming a policy analyst requires a combination of education, skills, and experience. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you start your career in this field.
First, it's important to have a clear understanding of what a policy analyst does. Typically, policy analysts:
Most policy analyst positions require at least a bachelor’s degree. Consider pursuing a degree in:
For higher-level positions or more specialized areas, a master's degree or Ph.D. may be necessary. Relevant graduate degrees include:
To become competitive in the field, you should gain experience through:
Policy analysts need a strong set of skills, including:
Networking is crucial in the field of policy analysis. You can build your network by:
A successful policy analyst stays well-informed about current events and understands how they affect various policies. You can stay updated by:
While not always required, certifications can demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field. Explore options such as:
With your education, experience, and network established, you're ready to apply for policy analyst roles. Look for job openings at:
Remember to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and education for each position you apply for.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to starting a career as a policy analyst. Stay persistent, keep learning, and remain engaged with the policy community to advance in this dynamic and impactful career path.
To pursue a career as a Policy Analyst, you typically need:
Key skills for success include:
Regular tasks often involve:
Policy Analysts can find employment across various sectors, such as:
Career advancement opportunities may include:
Joining professional associations can provide valuable resources:
The job outlook for Policy Analysts is generally positive:
Work flexibility varies depending on the employer: