Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

• Public Administration
• Public Policy Analysis, General

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

Bachelor's degree or higher, plus work experience

Insider Info

Additional Information

High school students should consider joining their school’s debate team.

“The debate team is always good,” says Duane Nicol, a local politician in Manitoba, Canada. “Being able to understand rhetoric and the to-and-fro of debate is helpful.”

University courses in logic are also a good idea, says Nicol. A record of solid community involvement and a strong educational background is crucial for this career. Candidates often have a vast history in volunteer experience, including working with charities, political organizations and commissions.

“Get active in the community, because one of the things about local politics is that it’s all about the connections you make,” says Nicol. “And by volunteering you get to know the biggest challenges in the community.”

Getting involved in your community is great experience. Try volunteering at your local hospital, participating in a program like Meals on Wheels, or attending city council meetings when they’re dealing with issues you’re interested in.

“I would strongly urge people to go out to their town council meetings,” says Nicol. “They’re thrilled to have you there because so few people attend most of the time, and you get a really good understanding of issues.”

Virtually all city, state and county managers have bachelor’s degrees. Many also have master’s degrees. A master of public administration degree can help give you the necessary background in policy planning and financial management.

Education is helpful, says Nan Whaley, a city commissioner. But there’s something even more essential: “I find the most important thing is being known and getting known, regardless of what you decide to go into,” she says. “Those kinds of connections are irreplaceable.”

Whaley has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and a master’s degree in public administration. Many politicians study history, political science, economics and English. Many also have law degrees.

Think fast! Politicians need the ability to think clearly and make snap decisions. Candidates need to assimilate vast amounts of information and create the best possible policy. Negotiation skills are also important. Politicians need to know how to reach a compromise between opponents.

Volunteering to work on a political campaign is an excellent way to build contacts. It will also help you gain some of the skills and experience you’ll need to work in politics yourself.

The United States has page programs that allow young people to work in Congress.

Getting involved in student government in high school or university can also be a great learning experience. It can help you gain some confidence in public speaking and campaigning.