How to become an environmental policy analyst

Is becoming an environmental policy analyst right for me?

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Overview
What do environmental policy analysts do?

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How to become an Environmental Policy Analyst

Bachelor’s Degree
Most entry-level environmental policy positions call for a bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the field. These are the most common:

Undergrad programs in environmental policy typically comprise courses in:

  • Environmental Science – Courses in environmental science, ecology, and earth systems will provide a foundation in the natural processes that shape the environment and the impacts of human activities on the environment.
  • Public Policy – Courses in public policy, political science, and public administration will provide an understanding of the policymaking process and the role of government in environmental protection.
  • Environmental Law – Courses in environmental law, regulations, and compliance will provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework for environmental protection.
  • Economics – Courses in economics, including environmental economics, will provide a framework for analyzing the costs and benefits of environmental policies and regulations.
  • Statistics and Data Analysis – Courses in statistics, data analysis, and research methods will provide the skills needed to analyze and interpret environmental data.
  • Writing and Communication – Courses in writing, communication, and public speaking will help students develop strong writing and communication skills that are critical for success in this field.
  • Interdisciplinary Courses – Many environmental policy programs offer interdisciplinary courses that integrate the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities to provide a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues.

Internship / Volunteer Experience
Employers in the environmental health sector very much value relevant experience gained through internships, work placements, or volunteer work in the field, particularly with environmental advocacy organizations, governmental research agencies, or environmental consulting firms. Undergraduate programs at some schools may incorporate such opportunities in their curriculum.

Licensure / Certification
Environmental policy analysts typically do not need to be licensed or certified. However, some states or organizations may require certifications in specific areas, such as environmental health and safety, hazardous materials management, or environmental impact assessment.

In addition, certifications in project management, such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, can be useful for environmental policy analysts who manage environmental programs and initiatives.

Having certifications can demonstrate a commitment to the field and may make job candidates more competitive and marketable, but they are generally not required for entry-level positions in environmental policy analysis.

Master’s Degree
Higher-level positions in the environmental policy sector may require a master’s degree in a discipline relevant to environmental policymaking.

Membership in Professional Organizations
There are several organizations for environmental policy analysts, which can provide access to professional development opportunities, training, and resources, as well as a network of like-minded professionals working in the field:

  • National Association of Environmental Professionals (NAEP) – a non-profit organization that serves professionals in the environmental field
  • Environmental Law Institute (ELI) – an organization that provides training, research, and other resources to environmental professionals
  • Society for Conservation Biology (SCB) – an international organization that provides resources, training, and networking opportunities for individuals interested in conservation biology and related fields, including environmental policy
  • American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) – an international organization that provides resources, training, and networking opportunities for individuals in the sciences
  • American Planning Association (APA) – a professional organization for urban and regional planners, including environmental policy analysts who work in the field of land use planning and environmental policy