What Can You Do With an Educational Policy Degree in 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What jobs can you pursue with an educational policy degree?

In a nutshell, an educational policy degree prepares graduates to analyze how laws and regulations shape school standards. Educational policy analysts, therefore, evaluate the effectiveness of programs, design strategies that improve not only curricula but also access and quality, and eventually influence local, state, or federal decisions that affect students and educators.

Apart from being an educational policy analyst, you can pursue these direct roles in this field:

• Curriculum Developers: They create and evaluate instructional materials, test books, academic programs, and learning frameworks. They also work closely with teachers, administrators, and subject experts to ensure lessons align with educational standards. 
• Education Administrators: They manage the operations of schools, districts, or universities. Their responsibilities include staffing, budgeting, compliance, and program development. 
• Education Consultants: They advise schools, districts, or organizations on creating effective strategies that enhance teaching, learning, and policy compliance. Consulting is generally a mid- to senior-level career path and often pursued after gaining experience as a teacher, analyst, or administrator. 

How much do graduates with an educational policy degree earn?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not specifically classify educational policy analysts, but PayScale records an annual salary of $65,126. They usually have an income range between $49,000 and $94,000. Professionals with an educational policy degree may also work as public school district administrators, with wages averaging $87,873 (ZipRecruiter, 2025). 

Education administrators also fall under this category, and their annual income is around $113,360 (K–secondary) to $124,450 (postsecondary). Meanwhile, preschool and daycare administrators earn a humbler yearly income of $62,640, and all other types of education administrators make around $99,460. However, several other factors also influence these figures. 

Generally, professionals with advanced credentials, certifications, and specializations earn more due to their masterful abilities. Professionals in public schools may also get stronger salary packages and benefits. Moreover, working in government agencies may guarantee greater job stability, and those working in states with higher costs of living and greater school funding may see better earnings.

Understanding salary differences is an important step in career preparation because it helps meet your expectations and gauge the value of this degree. It is always best to browse state and national data to gain a more comprehensive comparison of wages in this field.

This chart reflects the salaries of various educational policy careers.

What certifications or credentials pair well with an education policy degree?

Although there are various rules per state or employer, an educational policy degree holder typically begins with classroom experience. Having at least three years of practical teaching equips graduates with valuable insights into the needs of students, teachers, and schools. 

So, after completing a bachelor’s degree, many graduates pursue a teaching license, gain relevant hands-on work, and eventually pursue a master’s degree in this discipline. If you’re worried about the overall time to completion, you can explore the fastest educational policy degree online to speed up the timeline.

In addition to a teaching license, you can complement your degree with other certifications to strengthen your edge. For instance, getting a specialization from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) demonstrates advanced mastery in English, School Counseling, or Literacy, among others. Similarly, the Certified Public Policy Analyst (PPA) credential highlights expertise in policy development and evaluation across education and other sectors. 

Some graduates also choose to complement their policy degree with dual credentials. Pursuing an MPA, MBA, or JD alongside policy studies broadens career opportunities in public administration, business, or law. 

Alternatively, some states now recognize micro-credentials for initial teaching certification, license renewal, or professional advancement. According to a 2025 New America study, 32 states, including the District of Columbia, have adopted policies that enable or encourage the use of micro-credentials, up from only 26 states in 2020 (Tooley & Partelow, 2025). 

This growing trend not only expands access for teachers but also creates opportunities for educational policy analysts to explore hundreds of complementary credentials or even participate in committees that determine which micro-credentials carry the greatest value for the teaching profession. Additionally, those considering jobs with early childhood education certificate may find that combining such a credential with an education policy degree positions them uniquely for roles in curriculum design, program evaluation, and policy implementation focused on early learning initiatives.

What is the job outlook for graduates with an educational policy degree?

The job outlook for a professional with an educational policy degree is generally slow and steady. BLS data indicate that education and childcare administrators will have an overall employment growth of 0.6% from 2023 to 2033. While this is a gradual increase, it opens up around 45,200 total annual job openings throughout the decade.

Looking closer, though, the employment of administrators in preschool and daycare (-2.1%) and kindergarten through secondary school (-0.5%) will decline by a few percentage points. These will still yield around 5,000 to 21,000 annual job openings.

Similarly, most teaching positions will dip slightly (-0.1% to -0.7%) but still have significant annual positions ranging from 69,000 to 315,000. These changes can be attributed to turnovers, retirements, and career changes.

In contrast, education administrators in postsecondary institutions (2.9%) and instructional coordinators (1.8%) will see modest but steady increases, totaling around 15,000 to 20,000 annual opportunities. The reason for this is the growing demand for program evaluation, curriculum development, and policy compliance in higher education. 

For aspiring educational policy analysts, this signals that while traditional K–12 leadership may remain competitive, opportunities are expanding in specialized areas in postsecondary administration, instructional design, and policy-focused consulting. Additionally, graduates who hold broader degrees, such as a general studies degree, may also find flexible pathways into the education sector, with general studies degree jobs available in administrative support, program coordination, or community outreach roles that complement policy-focused positions.

Where do education policy analysts work?

With an educational policy degree, graduates can work in various sectors. Their abilities often qualify them for roles that intersect with government, schools, nonprofits, and even private companies.

• Government or Public Sector: Analysts examine education laws, funding priorities, and accountability measures. They may also contribute to forming new regulations or evaluating the success of existing programs.
• Educational Institutions: Within K–12 or higher education, analysts assess academic outcomes and institutional policies to guide improvement. They also support administrators in designing compliance strategies.
• Research Centers: Analysts here develop studies, interpret data, and publish findings that inform policy debates. Their work connects academic knowledge to practical reforms.
• Private Companies Engaging in Education: Analysts may assess the impact of tech products, training services, or curriculum tools on student learning. Some also advise corporations on aligning their services with district or state requirements, which may also intersect with professionals pursuing the shortest master’s in education technology online to advance their expertise.

Education policy analysts are not limited to a single type of workplace. Their competence allows them to contribute to both systemic reform and community-level improvements, which makes this versatile field an appealing choice for graduates seeking a meaningful role in education.

Why is it important to have educational policies?

Educational policies set the standards for the functions of schools and universities. They help these institutions adapt to new challenges, such as technological innovation, evolving laws, workforce demands, and social change. Without them, education systems will be in disarray and become inconsistent. This could leave students with uneven learning experiences.

Policies also guide how funding is distributed, how assessments are designed, and how marginalized groups gain fair access to high-quality education. So, policies are not merely rules but commitments to fostering an inclusive and effective education system for all learners.

Local, state, and national standards also guide teachers and administrators. Beyond aligning instruction, policies affect teaching loads, work hours, salary structures, and benefits. The absence of these frameworks can push educators and staff to feel lost and unsupported. 

The State of American Teacher Survey (Steiner et al., 2025) confirms that, apart from managing student behavior, teachers’ top sources of stress include low wages, administrative work, overtime, and political debates about education. In this light, policies and the analysts who design them are not only central to ensuring fairness but also to sustaining the teaching profession itself.

By setting a clear direction, strong and thoughtful policies provide the roadmap that educators, students, and communities rely on to achieve meaningful progress and lasting impact in education.

Similarly, individuals exploring career paths for Christian studies graduates can benefit from understanding educational policies, as these frameworks influence opportunities in faith-based schools, nonprofit educational programs, and community outreach initiatives where policy knowledge enhances leadership and administrative effectiveness.

This chart reveals the main sources of stress for teachers.

What skills will you develop with an educational policy degree?

Students earning an educational policy degree develop skills in research and data analysis, which are crucial for identifying gaps in the education system. In line with this, they must have solid problem-solving and critical thinking skills to enable them to evaluate complex challenges and recommend evidence-based solutions.

They also possess leadership abilities that prepare them to guide teams and influence decision-making. In addition, they embody strong communication and interpersonal skills, which will help them explain or present findings to stakeholders. Collaboration and negotiation also become second nature, as policy work requires balancing diverse perspectives.

Furthermore, graduates will become skillful in navigating technological platforms that enhance instruction and learning. Lastly, they will be more adept in time management and organization, which are essential to handling multiple tasks and meeting deadlines. 

With these skills, graduates not only become valuable contributors to the future of learning but are also ready to step into roles beyond education policy. For instance, many find their expertise translates well to energy policy jobs, where evaluating regulations, analyzing data, and recommending evidence-based solutions are critical to shaping sustainable energy initiatives and advising government or corporate stakeholders.

What are the most popular education policy degree specializations?

Students pursuing an educational policy degree can choose a specialization that aligns with their career goals. Depending on the program and institution, they can explore the following focus areas: 

• Higher Education Policy: Students explore issues related to universities and colleges, including financial aid, accreditation, and student access. Graduates work in administrative offices, advocacy groups, or policy think tanks. 
• Leadership: This track emphasizes decision-making, organizational management, and policy implementation. Some programs also offer options like accelerated online master’s in educational leadership for professionals seeking faster career advancement.
• Comparative and International Education: Students analyze how education systems differ worldwide and what lessons can be applied across borders. This specialization appeals to those interested in cross-cultural policy and global education reform.
• Curriculum Design: This concentration focuses on how curriculum and instructional strategies are developed. Graduates evaluate the effectiveness of teaching models and contribute to innovation in classroom design. 
• Urban Teaching and Leadership: This specialization addresses the challenges faced by schools in densely populated, under-resourced areas. Graduates learn strategies for community engagement and systemic reform. 
• Diversity and Equity: Students focus on dismantling systemic inequities and creating inclusive learning environments. They explore how policy can reduce disparities based on race, gender, income, and disability. 

When choosing a specialization, students should also consider where their passions intersect with workforce demand. By tailoring their studies, they develop expertise that stand out in a competitive job market.

What advancement opportunities are available to educational policy degree holders? 

Earning an educational policy degree can be the first step toward long-term career growth in the education sector. Consider the following advancement opportunities that can elevate your career: 

• Leadership Positions: Many degree holders progress into administrative or executive positions, such as policy directors, school principals, college deans, or nonprofit leaders. In these roles, you can directly influence large-scale policy development and implementation.
• Legislative and Legal Roles: In this sector, graduates can assist in drafting education-related bills or advising legislators on the potential impact of proposed policies. With additional education, like a JD or MPA, they can move into senior positions, like legislative counsel, legal analysts, or government consultants.
• Professional Organizations: Joining associations, like the American Educational Research Association (AERA) or the Association for Education Finance and Policy (AEFP), helps graduates expand their networks and access professional development. These provide platforms for presenting research, contributing to publications, and attending conferences.
• Other Advancement Opportunities: Some graduates pursue the highest academic credentials, such as doctoral or specialist degrees, to deepen their expertise. Exploring the difference between EdD and EdS or a PhD can help professionals determine whether they want to focus on applied leadership or specialized research in education.

The good thing about educational policy and leadership degrees is that there are extensive opportunities for growth. A National Association of Secondary School Principals survey showed that the majority of school leaders agreed there were adequate personal development (82%) and career advancement options (81%) in their roles. 

They were also confident about the impact of their voices on school policies, as well as autonomy in school decisions. These insights underscore how additional credentials, when combined with strong policy training, can empower professionals to advance in leadership roles while shaping the future of education.

Where else can an educational policy degree be useful? 

Students with an educational policy degree can branch into other professions where their expertise can make a difference. This flexibility appeals to those who want to combine their knowledge of education systems with more specialized or creative career paths. In some cases, further training or the shortest online education specialist programs can also help professionals pivot into related fields more seamlessly.

• Teaching: Some graduates choose to return to the classroom, applying their policy background to enhance instruction. They may bring a unique perspective on curriculum design and educational equity that benefits students directly. 
• Counseling and Social Work: Because of their strong foundation in education systems, graduates can support students’ social and emotional development. With additional training and credentials, they can address barriers to learning, like family, financial, or mental health challenges. 
• Museums and Cultural Institutions: Many museums employ educators to design programming, manage outreach, and connect exhibits with academic standards. Graduates can use their background to create engaging, inclusive learning experiences for diverse audiences. 
• Publishing and Educational Media: Professionals can contribute to the creation of textbooks, digital platforms, or other learning resources. Their expertise ensures that content is pedagogically sound and aligns with current educational standards. 
• Online Education and Technology: With the rapid growth of digital learning, professionals can apply their expertise to shape policies and best practices in online education. They may work with universities, educational technology companies, or regulatory bodies to ensure virtual learning environments meet standards. 
• National and International Organizations: Global institutions, such as UNESCO, UNICEF, or national advocacy groups, employ policy experts to advise on education reform and access worldwide. Their ability to blend research with cross-cultural understanding makes them valuable in shaping international education agendas.

This chart displays the incomes of possible roles across these sectors.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Educational Policy Careers 

Other Things You Should Know About Educational Policy Degrees

What is an education policy analyst?

An education policy analyst is a professional who studies and evaluates educational systems, policies, and programs to improve outcomes for students, teachers, and communities. They use research, data, and policy analysis to recommend reforms that make schools more effective and accountable.

Analysts often work with government agencies, nonprofits, or research institutions, influencing decisions on funding, curriculum standards, teacher training, and equity. 

How to become an educational policy analyst?

To become an educational policy analyst, students typically earn a bachelor’s degree in education, public policy, political science, or a related field. Pursuing an educational policy degree at the master’s level provides specialized knowledge in research, leadership, and policymaking.

Gaining experience through internships in government agencies, school districts, or think tanks is essential to build networks and skills. Many professionals also pursue advanced certifications for competitive advantage. 

Can former teachers move into education policy roles?

Yes, former teachers are often well-prepared to transition into education policy roles. Their firsthand classroom experience provides critical insights into what policies look like in practice and how they impact students and educators.

By pursuing additional training, such as a master’s in educational policy, leadership, or public administration, teachers can gain the policy expertise needed to complement their practical background. 

What is the highest paying education degree?

The highest-paying education degrees typically focus on leadership, specialized administration, or training roles. Training and development managers earn an average of $140,590 annually, while postsecondary education administrators make $124,450. Educators who pursue doctoral degrees or combine education expertise with fields like business or technology tend to command the highest salaries in the education sector.