Should I study education policy?

Ever wonder how decisions get made about what happens in schools — beyond the classroom?

It’s not just about lesson plans — it’s also about power, equity, and impact.

Studying education policy helps you make sense of the systems behind the scenes, and gives you the tools to improve them.

You’ll learn what it takes to lead change, center equity, and reimagine how education works from the inside out.

If you're passionate about education, thrive in collaborative environments, are energized by big-picture thinking, and find yourself asking: “How can we make this better?” — this might be the right path for you.

Education policy professionals are big-picture thinkers who care deeply about how systems shape real people’s lives. They’re curious, analytical, and not afraid to challenge the status quo.

People studying education policy usually:

• Ask tough questions and look for root causes, not quick fixes

• Are passionate about equity, access, and accountability

• See policy as a tool for real, measurable change

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Essential Skills in Education Policy

Of course, it's about policies — but it’s also about people. Behind every data point is a story, so if you’re good at talking, listening, and making sense of messy real-world problems, you’re already halfway there. Here are the skills you will need to succeed in this role:

• Writing skills

• Clear verbal communication

• Collaboration and team building

• Critical thinking

• Attention to detail

• Active listening

Most degree programs in education policy will teach you a variety of skills, frameworks, and tools to understand, evaluate, and influence education systems.

This will likely include:

Practical Coursework:

• Policy Writing

• Program Design

• Program Evaluation

• Data Analysis

• Research Methods

• Public Speaking

• Presentation & Communications

Theoretical Coursework:

• History of Educational Trends

• Public Policy Theory

• Economics of Education

• Philosophy of Education

• Learning Theory

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• Education Law & Legislation

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How will your courses look?

You can expect to do a significant amount of writing in your coursework. You may also engage in a fair bit of dialogue and debate to analyze issues and find potential solutions.

Assignments might include critically evaluating current policies/programs, and designing programs/policies that are centred on equitable frameworks.

This will help you build a strong foundation to think critically and act effectively across diverse educational contexts.

Most positions related to education policy require a master’s or PhD, and experience in education, research, or government.

Realistically, as an undergrad, your prospects after gaining an undergraduate degree in education policy are limited. But there are ways to approach this! If you're interested in pursuing a career in education policy as an undergrad, here's what you can do:

Gain Further Skills

Consider additional courses, certifications, or a double-major in fields like:

• Data Analysis

• Education/Curriculum Studies

• Program Coordination/Administration

• Communications

• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

These can make you hireable directly out of an undergraduate program!

Consider Internships & Volunteering

Find other ways to gain valuable experience and credibility while expanding your network. You can consider:

• Being a research assistant (RA) or teaching assistant (TA) at a university

• Volunteering or interning with local school organizations

• Finding opportunities in community settings to campaign for advocacy and outreach in education reform.

Gain Teaching Experience

Many jobs in educational policy require prior teaching experience in K–12 or higher education.

So even if it is an impermanent situation, teaching gives you credibility and real-world insight that will open up more opportunities in education policy.

Fast-Track to Graduate School

An undergrad degree in education policy can give you the foundation, but not always the credentials.

You may consider applying for graduate school right after your undergraduate degree.

People with graduate degrees in education policy have better prospects for employment, and can hold a variety of titles in different industries, such as:

• Government departments

• Public agencies

• Research organizations

• Ed-tech companies

• K-12 education

• Higher education institutions

• Non-profit organizations

Below is a list of titles you may expect to find with a degree in education policy, along with their projected growth rates and median salaries in the US.

Education Policy Analyst 📊

In this role, you'd study how schools and education systems work, then use research and data to recommend better policies or programs.

• Growth projection (2023 - 2033): 4%

• Median salary in the US (2025): $65,126

Higher Education Administrator 🏛️

In this role, you'd manage the operations, programs, and student services at colleges or universities to support learning and campus life.

• Growth projection (2023–2033): 3%

• Median salary in the US (2025): $103,960

Instructional Coordinator 📚

In this role, you'll often influence what gets taught in schools — without ever stepping in front of a class. Instructional coordinators shape curriculum, set teaching standards, and sometimes train the teachers themselves.

• Growth projection (2023–2033): 2%,

• Median salary in the U.S. (2024): $74,720

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1. Know Your “Why”

• Keep your core motivation front and center!

• Consider writing out your "why" in one sentence somewhere where you can find it easily.

2. Master the Basics

Writing, data analysis, and public speaking are must-have skills in this field. You may also consider:

• Starting a blog.

• Looking for opportunities to discuss policy decisions in your local community.

3. Stay Curious

Keep yourself up to date on emerging trends in education, and check up on their results.

• Follow real education debates.

• Read policy briefs.

4. Get Experience on the Ground

Policy is more powerful when it’s informed by practice. Build your professional credibility through:

• Teaching

• Tutoring

• Working in schools

5. Build Your Network

Policy is ultimately about people.

• Keep in touch with your professional communities

• Connect with professors, classmates, advocates, and mentors

• Make use of networking platforms like LinkedIn!

• Attend conferences and other such events if possible.

Here's the TLDR — whether or not education policy is really for YOU depends on your priorities.

If you’re looking for a fast-track job with a six-figure salary right out of your undergraduate degree, education policy probably isn’t it. But if you’re passionate about education, driven to improve systems, and want to make a real difference from behind the scenes — this could be exactly where you’re meant to be.

Education policy isn't the easiest path to get into, but it is one of the most impactful.

Here are some ways to go one step further: