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Government & Politics

Policy Analyst

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Primary Secondary Post-16

A policy analyst researches, evaluates, and develops policies that address social, economic, or political issues. This career involves gathering and interpreting data, consulting with stakeholders, and preparing reports to support decision-making. Policy analysts may work for government bodies, charities, or private consultancies, often specialising in areas such as health, education, environment, or international relations. The role requires strong analytical skills, an understanding of political processes, and the ability to communicate complex information in a clear and concise way. Entry into this field usually requires a degree, often in politics, economics, or a related subject, and some analysts also hold postgraduate qualifications.

Policy Analyst

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📊 Statistics

Average salary

Policy analysts in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £45,000 per year, with senior roles in government or think tanks reaching upwards of £60,000.

Job opportunities

In 2023, there were over 3,000 policy analyst positions advertised across the UK, with the majority clustered in London and other major cities.

Key employers

Major employers include central government departments, local authorities, think tanks, and non-governmental organisations.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Health Policy Analyst

Specialises in researching and evaluating policies related to healthcare systems, public health initiatives, and NHS reforms.

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Environmental Policy Advisor

Focuses on developing and assessing policies aimed at tackling climate change, sustainability, and environmental protection.

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Education Policy Researcher

Works on analysing and proposing improvements to educational policies, curriculum standards, and student welfare programmes.

Obtain Relevant Qualifications

Earn a Degree in a Related Field

Complete an undergraduate degree in a subject such as politics, public policy, economics, international relations, or social sciences.

Most Policy Analyst roles require a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree. Subjects like politics, economics, or social sciences provide analytical and research skills that are highly valued. Consider including modules in data analysis, statistics, or public administration if available.

Consider Postgraduate Study

Pursue a Masters degree in public policy, public administration, or a related discipline to strengthen your expertise and employability.

While not always essential, a postgraduate qualification can give you a competitive edge, especially for research-intensive or senior roles. Popular options include MSc Public Policy or MPA (Master of Public Administration). These courses often include placements or internships, which provide valuable work experience.

Develop Analytical and Research Skills

Gain Experience with Research Methods

Learn qualitative and quantitative research methods, data interpretation, and policy evaluation techniques.

Familiarise yourself with techniques like interviews, surveys, and statistical analysis. Volunteering, student societies, or research assistant roles can offer practical experience. Proficiency in software like Excel, SPSS, or Stata can be advantageous for data analysis.

Enhance Written and Verbal Communication

Develop strong writing skills for drafting policy briefs, reports, and presentations.

Effective communication is essential for conveying complex information clearly to a range of audiences, including policymakers and the public. Practice by writing for student publications, blogs, or participating in debating societies.

Build Professional Experience and Network

Secure Internships or Entry Level Roles

Apply for internships, placements, or graduate schemes with government bodies, think tanks, charities, or consultancies.

Experience in the public sector or policy-focused organisations is highly valued. Opportunities may be available through the Civil Service Fast Stream, local councils, or policy research institutes. Even short-term placements can help build your CV.

Grow Your Professional Network

Attend policy conferences, workshops, and networking events to connect with professionals in the field.

Joining professional bodies such as the UK Political Studies Association or the Institute for Government can provide access to resources and networking opportunities. Engaging with policy professionals on LinkedIn or at sector events can help you learn about job openings and industry trends.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Policy Analyst. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

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Career Progressions

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Sample Qualifications

A Policy Analyst and a Business Analyst both interpret complex information, assess organisational needs, and develop strategies or policies to improve processes or achieve specific objectives. Both roles require strong analytical skills, understanding of regulatory or operational frameworks, and the ability to communicate findings effectively.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • applying directly

University

Any degree that teaches analytical skills can be useful for this role.

Some employers might prefer you to have a degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject such as:

  • business information systems
  • business management
  • computing and systems development
  • computer science

Experience during your degree

You may have an advantage if your degree course lets you get some business experience.

This could be through:

  • internships
  • work placements
  • a year in industry

It may also be useful to get experience of managing projects and analysing data.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

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Apprenticeship

You could gain some of the skills and knowledge needed for this role through an apprenticeship.

For example, you could do the Business Analyst Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship or the Project Manager Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

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Direct Application

You can apply directly for jobs if you've got several years' experience in project management, consulting or IT.

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Career tips

To become a business analyst, it might be useful to know about agile project management or other similar methods.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a business analyst from:

You can also find out about government business analysts in the Civil Service on GOV.UK.

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