Exploring Careers In Policy: A Student Guide

Purpose of This Resource

This resource is designed to:

  • Demystify policy careers by explaining what policy work looks like across different sectors and institutions.
  • Make policy pathways more visible for roles that don’t appear clearly in traditional career databases or job outlook resources such as O*Net or the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
  • Support early exploration for students with little or no prior exposure to policy careers.
  • Translate broad interests (e.g., social issues, public service, research, advocacy) into concrete roles and institutions.

This guide specifically aims to:

  • Organize policy careers across five common types of institutions.
  • Highlight typical entry-level roles, skills, and experiences.
  • Provide starting points for internships, fellowships, and further exploration.

As you explore a career in policy and the 5 main types of policy institutions, reflect on your personal Values, Interests, Personality and Skills (your VIPS) and consider where you might be the best fit.

Remember, there is not one “right” path into policy work. There are multiple entry points into this field and you can build foundational skills, experience and confidence over time by using the campus resources available to you and highlighted in this guide.

What is a Policy Career?

Policy is a broad term that refers to the rules, plans, decisions, and actions—or deliberate inactions—used to address public problems and shape how society and institutions function. While policy is often associated with government, it is created, influenced, and implemented both within and outside of government by a wide range of organizations and actors.

Policy careers exist at the organizational, local, state, national, and global levels and span issue areas such as education, healthcare, climate change, criminal justice, immigration, and economic development, to name a few. For nearly every societal challenge, there are institutions working to gather evidence, analyze problems, and influence how decisions are made.

Within government, public policy extends far beyond formal laws and regulations. It includes funding decisions, executive priorities, agency guidance, and administrative practices, all of which can shift in response to political change, public pressure, or global events. As a result, policy is not static—it is shaped continuously by people, power, and context.

Outside of government, organizations such as think tanks, nonprofits, advocacy groups, research centers, and international organizations play a critical role in shaping policy by producing research, evaluating programs, proposing solutions, and influencing decision-makers.

Across these settings, policy professionals conduct research, design and assess solutions, advocate for change, manage programs, and support implementation. While some policy careers require advanced degrees, many institutions offer entry-level roles that allow students and recent graduates to build skills, explore issue areas, and contribute meaningfully to public impact.

The Five Policy Institutions

The framework below was adapted from Second Day and provides an overview of the five broad policy institutions. Explore each institution in the accordion below to learn more about: Common job titles and what they mean, links to different institutions, typical salary, how to get started, internships and fellowships, and additional resources

Institution TypeWhat They DoCommon Entry-Level RolesExample Employers
1. Think Tanks (Research Institutes)Research and recommend policiesResearch Assistant, Policy FellowBrookings Institution, Urban Institute, Manhattan Institute
2. Measurement & Evaluation FirmsEvaluate programs and measure impactResearch Associate, AnalystMathematica, MDRC
3. University-Based Research CentersStudy real-world problems and inform public policyProgram Coordinator, Data AssistantRockefeller Institute of Government, CUNY Institute for State and Local Governance
4. International NGOs (INGOs) & Advocacy OrganizationsPromote causes and influence policy at global and domestic levelsPolicy Associate, Campaign AssistantAmnesty International, International Rescue Committee
5. Government Agencies & Political CampaignsMake and implement policy at the local, state, and federal levelLegislative Aide, Caseworker, Field OrganizerNew York State Senate, City of Boston, local campaign offices

Think Tank Overview

Think Tanks are organizations that research public issues and produce reports, data, and recommendations intended to inform decision-makers and the public. They often focus on specific policy areas such as education, health, economics, climate, or criminal justice, to name just a few. Some think tanks aim to be nonpartisan, while others are ideologically aligned or advocacy-oriented. Entry-level staff typically support research, writing, and data analysis rather than setting policy directly. Their work often influences government, media, and advocacy organizations over time.

Special Consideration on Think Tanks: Of the 5 institutions outlined in this resource, think tanks are the most visible policy institutions in terms of centrally finding information and career opportunities, compared to the other institutions. While think tanks are often the most visible policy employers, most policy professionals work in evaluation firms, advocacy organizations, universities, or government. These pathways are just as impactful—and often more accessible at the entry level.

Entry level roles: Special Assistant/Staff Assistant and Research Assistant

Both positions usually involve working with a specific team or senior leader on an initiative within the think tank. A Special Assistant often has a mix of administrative responsibilities such as scheduling, travel logistics, and meeting preparation along with support on research projects. A Research Assistant is focused on research by conducting interviews, analyzing data, and synthesizing key takeaways to support the senior leader. 

  • Special Assistant/Staff Assistant – Scheduling, travel logistics, meeting preparation
  • Research Assistant / Associate – Supports data collection, analysis, and writing
  • Policy or Program Assistant – Provides research, administrative, and event support
Types of Think Tanks

Note: Many policy organizations describe themselves as non-partisan, meaning they do not formally align with a political party. However, organizations may still have identifiable perspectives, research priorities, values, political affiliations, special interests or profit structures you should be aware of before applying. Students are encouraged to review mission statements and publications to assess organizational fit. Below is a list of the types of think tanks that exist (Source – Wellesley College):

  • Autonomous and Independent: Significant independence from any one interest group or donor and autonomous in its operation and funding from government.
  • Quasi Independent: Autonomous from government but an interest group (i.e. unions, religious groups, etc.), donor or contracting agency provides a majority of the funding and has significant influence over operations of the think tank.
  • University Affiliated: A policy research center at a university.
  • Political Party Affiliated: Formally affiliated with a political party.
  • Government Affiliated: A part of the structure of government.
  • Quasi Governmental: Funded exclusively by government grants and contracts but not a part of the formal structure of government.
  • For Profit: Public policy research unit located within a corporation or operating as a freestanding for-profit think tank.

Key Skills: Research & writing, data analysis, policy briefs, attention to detail

Typical Entry Level Salary: $45,000–$65,000

How to Get Started: Research, strong writing samples, undergraduate research, relevant course work involving research, internships, fellowships and scholarships

Gain skills and experience through Binghamton University Departments:

Think Tank Resources: 

M&E Firm Overview

Unlike think tanks, measurement and evaluation firms often spend less time focusing on a specific agenda and more time using their research expertise to assess the success or failure of various programs based on their intended outcome. Measurement and evaluation firms are often contracted to produce a specific report for a foundation, university, or other entity – M&E is not advocacy. It is often technical, structured and deadline-driven using data, research methods, and evaluation tools to measure impact. These organizations play a key role in evidence-based policymaking by identifying what works and what does not. Entry-level roles tend to be data- and research-focused, making this a good fit for students interested in analytics and applied research.

Special Considerations:

  • Careers are framed around skills, not always policy ideology

Common Entry-Level Roles

  • Research Analyst / Associate – Analyzes quantitative and qualitative data
  • Project Assistant, Project Coordinator/Project Staff – Supports evaluation logistics and reporting
  • Data Associate

Key Skills: Statistics, Excel, data management, R, Stata, research methods, technical writing

Typical Salary: $55,000–$75,000

Organizations:
Top 10 large M&E firms include:

How to Get Started:

Become familiar with M&E Terminology: Logic models/theory of change, indicators and outcomes, baselines & benchmarks, process vs. impact evaluation, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) vs. quasi-experimental designs.

Pursue Internships & Fellowships that feed into M&E: 

  • PPIA Junior Summer Institute
  • State or local government analyst fellowships
  • Public Health Fellowships with evaluation components (Check out the Global Health Impact Project and other rights-based research )
  • NYC Urban Fellows
  • MDRC Internships: A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, MDRC conducts rigorous studies of programs and policies that affect people with low incomes, actively disseminates the lessons to policymakers and practitioners, and works directly with programs and agencies to help improve their effectiveness and efficiency.
  • Mathematica Internships: Mathematica partners with organizations across the public, private, and foundation sectors to build lasting impact.

Resources: American Evaluation Association/Jobs: Create an account and upload your application materials. 

University-Based Research Center Overview

Many universities house specific research centers that connect academic expertise and applied research to real-world policy challenges. These centers often partner with governments, nonprofits, and foundations to study social issues and inform decision-making. Unlike traditional academic departments, these centers focus on producing research that is timely and practical. Entry-level roles often involve project coordination, research support, and data management. This environment can be a strong bridge between undergraduate study and careers in policy or graduate school. If you enjoy being on campus and want the opportunity to manage student interns, working at a University research center can be a great place to start.

Special Considerations: 

  • Jobs are posted through individual University career pages and not on policy job boards. 
  • Titles may seem administrative but involve real policy work. 
  • These positions are often overlooked by students who assume they are only for faculty

What They Do: Conduct applied research within universities to inform policy and practice.

Common Entry-Level Roles

  • Program Coordinator – Manages projects and partnerships
  • Research Assistant – Supports faculty-led research

Key Skills: Research, project coordination, writing, communication

Typical Salary: $45,000–$65,000

Examples of University Policy Center Career Pages:

How to Get Started: On-campus research jobs, faculty connections, student clubs and organizations.

Resources: 

INGO and Advocacy Organization Overview

International Non-Governmental Organizations and advocacy organizations work to influence policy, raise awareness, and address social or global challenges. Some focus primarily on advocacy and policy change, while others also implement programs on the ground. Their work may operate domestically, internationally, or both, depending on the organization’s mission. Entry-level roles often support research, communications, campaigns, or program operations. This path appeals to students motivated by mission-driven work and social impact.

What They Do: Advocate for policy change and/or implement programs related to social or global issues.

Common Entry-Level Roles

  • Policy or Advocacy Associate – Researches issues and supports campaigns
  • Program Assistant – Supports grant-funded initiatives

Typical Salary: $40,000–$60,000

Key Skills: Policy research, policy briefs, writing policy briefs for non-technical audiences, drafting talking points, op-eds, blogs, advocacy materials, preparing messaging for policy-makers, donors or the public, cultural competency. (Clarity and persuasion matter as much as accuracy!), coalition building, advocacy campaigns, monitor policy outcomes or impact, reporting

Special Consideration: There is definitely overlap in skills between all of these institutions and especially between INGO/Advocacy Organizations and Think Tanks. However, INGOs and advocacy organizations emphasize a different set of skills, especially around implementation, communication, coalition-building, and influence rather than primarily research.

All policy roles value strong writing, analytical thinking, and issue-area knowledge. But the emphasis differs:

  • Think tanks focus on producing knowledge (research, analysis, evidence). Think tanks ask, “What does the evidence say?”
  • INGOs & advocacy organizations focus on using knowledge to influence decisions, mobilize stakeholders, and drive change. INGOs and advocacy organizations ask, “How do we turn evidence into action?”

Here is a skill comparison snapshot (Source: ChatGPT)

Skill AreaThink TanksINGOs & Advocacy Orgs
Research & Data Analysis⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Academic/Technical Writing⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Public-Facing Writing⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stakeholder Engagement⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Program/Campaign Support⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Political Awareness⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Project Management⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

How Students Can Build These Skills:

  • Get involved in campaigns, coalitions, or organizing efforts
  • Write for student newspapers, blogs, or issue-based orgs
  • Volunteer or intern with advocacy or service organizations
  • Practice policy memo or op-ed writing
  • Take courses with group projects, community engagement, or applied research

How to Get Started: Human Rights Minor/Masters in Human Rights, Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention Master’s Program, Global Affairs Minor, Global Public Health, Africana Studies, Digital and Data Studies, Mathematics and Statistics, and other area studies, foreign language majors and minors, advocacy internships, volunteering, issue-focused student groups

Resources: 

Sidebar: What About International Development Careers?

Current Landscape: Political shifts continue to dramatically impact how and where global policy work is done. As of February 2025, the US Agency for International Development (USAID), a long-standing US Government institution and international aid funding source that employed over 10,000 people worldwide was heavily dismantled. International development employment fluctuates with political cycles, but demand does not disappear – it shifts to other organizations such as:

Alternative domestic careers include working on global education, and immigrant rights advocacy in the U.S.

If you are interested in talking more about launching an international career, consider setting up an appointment with Jessica Lane-Rwabukwisi to discuss you interests. Schedule a time with her on hireBING.

Government Agency and Political Campaign Overview

Government agencies are responsible for creating, implementing, and enforcing public policy at the local, state, and federal levels. Political campaigns shape who holds decision-making power and often serve as an entry point into public service. Policy work in government includes much more than laws—it involves budgeting, administration, constituent services, and program management. Entry-level roles typically support legislators, agencies, or campaign operations rather than making final decisions. This path offers direct exposure to how policy functions in real time and responds to current events.

What They Do: Create, implement, and enforce public policy; campaigns shape who holds policymaking power.

Common Entry-Level Roles

  • Legislative Aide / Assistant – Research and constituent services
  • Field Organizer / Campaign Assistant – Voter outreach and organizing

Key Skills: Writing, communication, organization, public service orientation

Typical Salary: $40,000–$65,000

Organizations:
Local & State Governments | Federal Agencies (USAJobs) | Campaign Offices | GoGovernment – The Partnership for Public Service

How to Get Started: Volunteer through the Center for Civic Engagement, take a Community Engaged Course, Take part in the Leaders in Engagement, Advocacy and Democracy Program (LEAD), volunteer for a political campaign,

Clubs and organizations:

Resources for Internships & Fellowships:

Additional resources:

Why Consider a Career in Policy

A career in policy is a way to turn ideas, values, and evidence into real-world change. Policy professionals help shape the decisions that affect people’s daily lives—from how schools are funded, to who has access to healthcare, to how communities respond to climate change or public safety concerns.

Students might consider a policy career if they:

  • Care about systems-level impact: Policy work focuses on changing structures, laws, and programs—not just helping individuals one at a time.
  • Enjoy research, problem-solving, or writing: Many entry-level roles involve analyzing information, synthesizing data, and communicating findings clearly.
  • Want flexible career pathways: Policy skills are transferable across government, nonprofits, research organizations, advocacy groups, and even the private sector.
  • Are motivated by public service or social impact: Policy careers allow students to contribute to the public good, whether locally, nationally, or globally.
  • Are still exploring their direction: Entry-level policy roles expose students to multiple issue areas and institutions, helping them clarify long-term goals before committing to graduate school.

Assessing Your Fit for Policy Work

Because policy careers exist across many institutions and roles, it can be challenging to know where you might fit best. To support this exploration, the Horizon Institute for Public Service developed a guide called “Testing Your Fit for Policy Careers,” which includes an overview of differences between types of policy institutions, attributes for policy career success and concrete activities and reflection prompts to help students assess:

  • Their interests in different policy environments
  • The types of work they enjoy (research, advocacy, implementation, analysis, coordination)
  • Skills they already have and those they may want to develop

Using tools like this can help students move beyond job titles and better understand which policy institutions and roles align with their strengths, values, and career goals.

Importantly, students do not need to major in public policy to pursue this work. Majors across the social sciences, humanities, STEM fields, and professional programs regularly lead to policy careers.

Resources

This guide was created using a mix of expert resources, professional articles, and tailored advice for Binghamton students. All external sources are linked below.