Build a Career That Shapes Communities and Creates Change
Public policy professionals work across government, education, nonprofit organizations, research institutions, consulting firms, legal systems, and advocacy organizations. They analyze complex problems, develop and evaluate programs, use data to guide decisions, and help communities translate ideas into action.
A degree in public policy prepares students for a wide range of careers - not just one job title or employment sector. Explore the career pathways below to learn about common roles, employers, skills, and opportunities within the field.
Government and Public Administration
Policy Analyst, Legislative Analyst, City Management Analyst, Program Manager, Public Affairs Specialist
Education and Academia
Education Policy Analyst, Institutional Research Analyst, Program Coordinator, Student Affairs Professional, Research Associate
Data, Evaluation, and Analytics
Data Analyst, Program Evaluator, Research Analyst, Performance Management Analyst, Policy Research Associate
Nonprofit and Advocacy
Program Manager, Community Engagement Coordinator, Policy Advocate, Grants Manager, Development Officer
Law, Justice, and Public Affairs
Government Relations Specialist, Legal Policy Analyst, Public Affairs Manager, Criminal Justice Program Analyst, Legislative Affairs Coordinator
What Can You Do with a Public Policy Degree?
Public policy professionals:
- Analyze problems using research, data, and community knowledge.
- Design solutions through policies, programs, and institutional reforms.
- Implement initiatives within public agencies and community organizations.
- Evaluate results to determine whether programs and policies are effective.
- Communicate and advocate with decision-makers, organizations, and the public.