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Higher Education Policy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Hunt Institute

Policy & Impact Manager

Cary, NC · On-site

$100K - $107K/yr

The ideal candidate will bring at least 3 years' policy experience and interest in early childhood, K-12, or higher education. Additionally, the Policy & Impact Manager ensures that each program and ...

THE CITY NY

Higher Education Reporter

New York, NY · On-site

$66K - $74K/yr

Translate complex policy and budget issues into clear, compelling stories. * Collaborate with ... Two years of reporting, preferably covering higher education, New York City or both. * Demonstrated ...

The City Reporter

Higher Education Reporter

New York, NY · On-site

$66K - $74K/yr

Translate complex policy and budget issues into clear, compelling stories. * Collaborate with ... Two years of reporting, preferably covering higher education, New York City or both. * Demonstrated ...

The City Reporter

Higher Education Reporter

New York, NY · On-site

$66K - $74K/yr

Translate complex policy and budget issues into clear, compelling stories. * Collaborate with ... Two years of reporting, preferably covering higher education, New York City or both. * Demonstrated ...

Williammary

Adjunct Faculty - Educational Planning Policy & Leadership (EPPL) Department: CC00182 WM001 | PROV ... D. programs in higher education, K-12 administration, and gifted education, and our Ph.D. programs ...

Barrow Wise Consulting

Higher Education Consultant

MD · On-site

$70K - $140K/yr

Assess the alignment of financial aid policies with institutional goals. * Identify opportunities ... Deep expertise in higher education enrollment strategy, a track record of successful institutional ...

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Higher Education Policy information

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$55.5K

$96.8K

$155K

How much do higher education policy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for higher education policy in the United States is $96,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in higher education policy, and why are they important?

To excel in Higher Education Policy, you need strong analytical abilities, research skills, and a background in education policy, public administration, or a related field, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy research databases, and legislative tracking systems is often required. Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and critical thinking skills are crucial for effectively shaping and advocating policy recommendations. These skills ensure that policies are evidence-based, strategically implemented, and address the complex needs of higher education institutions and stakeholders.

What are the common challenges faced by professionals working in higher education policy roles?

Professionals in higher education policy often navigate complex regulatory environments and must balance the interests of multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, academic institutions, and students. They face challenges such as staying up-to-date with rapidly changing policies, ensuring equity and access in educational opportunities, and analyzing the impact of proposed reforms. Additionally, collaboration across departments and with external partners is key, making strong communication and negotiation skills essential. Adapting to evolving technologies and data-driven decision-making are also becoming increasingly important in this field.

What is the difference between Higher Education Policy vs Education Policy Analyst?

AspectHigher Education PolicyEducation Policy Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Education, Public Policy, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Education, Public Policy, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, universities, think tanks focusing on higher education issuesGovernment, NGOs, or research organizations analyzing various education levels
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in higher education institutions and agencies shaping policies for colleges and universitiesBroader education sector, including K-12 and higher education policy analysis

Higher Education Policy specialists focus specifically on policies affecting colleges and universities, often working within higher education institutions or agencies. Education Policy Analysts have a broader scope, analyzing policies across all education levels. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in focus and work environment.

What is higher education policy?

Higher education policy refers to the set of laws, regulations, and guidelines that govern colleges, universities, and other postsecondary institutions. It covers areas such as funding, admissions, accreditation, student financial aid, faculty employment, and accountability. Policymakers in this field work to improve access, quality, and outcomes in higher education, often in response to economic, social, and workforce needs. These policies can be set at the institutional, state, or federal level and have a significant impact on students, educators, and society.
More about Higher Education Policy jobs
What cities are hiring for Higher Education Policy jobs? Cities with the most Higher Education Policy job openings:
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Higher Education Policy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Higher Education Policy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,819 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Senior Policy Analyst, Higher Education

UnidosUS

Washington, DC • On-site

$76K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

About UnidosUS
UnidosUS is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that serves as the nation's largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization. Since 1968, we have built a stronger America by creating opportunities for Latinos and breaking down barriers to expand economic and social progress for all. UnidosUS partners with an Affiliate Network of nearly 300 community-based organizations across the United States and Puerto Rico. For more information on UnidosUS, visit www.unidosus.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and Threads.
SUMMARY
UnidosUS is seeking a Senior Policy Analyst to join its Education Policy Project, reporting to the Director for Education Policy. This role will serve as a subject-matter expert and partner in shaping and advancing federal and state advocacy agendas.
The Senior Policy Analyst will help develop and drive a policy agenda focused on strengthening accountability and improving return on investment in higher education, particularly for Latino students and other historically underserved communities. The role will center on advancing policies that ensure postsecondary programs deliver real economic value, protect students from low-quality or predatory programs, and close gaps in post-college outcomes. The Senior Policy Analyst will promote federal and state policies that improve transparency, enforce accountability, and ensure students enroll in programs that lead to meaningful credentials, gainful employment, and long-term economic mobility.
The ideal candidate brings familiarity with postsecondary data sets and a strong interest in using evidence to improve outcomes for Latino students.
Location: This is a hybrid position based in Washington, DC. In accordance with UnidosUS policy, employees are expected to work onsite two days per week, with Tuesdays designated as a common in-office day. Additional in-office days may be required as needed.
Salary: $76,100-$84,600
Essential Functions
  • Shape and advance UnidosUS' higher education policy agenda while generating innovative project ideas and strategies.
  • Lead analyses of emerging public policy issues and trends in higher education and produce policy documents, including issue briefs, regulatory comments, white papers, conference papers, and congressional testimony.
  • Serve as an expert on higher education policy, with a focus on policy solutions related to accountability and improving the return on investment in postsecondary education.
  • Represent UnidosUS in high-visibility forums, conferences, and meetings, including meetings with congressional staff, policymakers, issue experts, stakeholders, and the media.
  • Organize and execute policy forums, roundtables, and events to inform and elevate UnidosUS' higher education policy agenda.
  • Lead and participate in coalitions of experts and advocates on higher education.
  • Carry out communications activities to build support for UnidosUS' education priorities; provide consistent, timely updates to Affiliates, partners, and funders.
  • Manage their own projects from conception to completion, tracking deliverables, deadlines, and compliance requirements, and supporting clear reporting to funders.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree.
  • 3-5 years of policy experience in higher education.
  • Strong knowledge base of higher education policy and experience with policy development and advocacy.
  • Knowledge of and professional networks within relevant agencies, congressional offices, and/or stakeholder organizations.
  • A proven track record of conducting rigorous policy analysis and translating findings into clear, actionable policy recommendations. Ability to work collaboratively across research, communications, and external partners in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent analytical and writing skills.
  • Displayed commitment to social justice and UnidosUS's mission.
  • Flexibility for occasional travel(less than 10%).
  • Demonstrated experience with and knowledge of the Latino community.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in a related field.
  • Experience conducting quantitative analysis and familiarity using higher education datasets.
  • Experience communicating policy ideas in public settings such as coalition meetings, congressional hearings and briefings, major conferences, and media interviews.
  • Bilingual ability (English and Spanish), written and verbal.

Skills and Abilities
  • Steadfast commitment to UnidosUS mission, vision, and values (Excellence, Respeto, Accountability).
  • Commitment to supporting and advancing the needs of the U.S. Latino community, Latino non-profit organizations, and the Latino market. Capacity for innovative approaches to substantive policy and advocacy strategy.

Competencies
  • Analytical--Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs workflows and procedures.
  • Problem Solving--Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
  • Project Management--Develops project plans; Coordinates projects; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time and budget; Manages project team activities.
  • Strategic Thinking--Develops strategies to achieve organizational goals; Understands organization's strengths & weaknesses; Analyzes market and competition; Identifies external threats and opportunities; Adapts strategy to changing conditions.
  • Innovation--Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
  • Perform some repetitive motion activities.
  • Sit for long periods of time.
  • Frequently required to stand.
  • Frequently required to walk.
  • Frequently required to sit.
  • Frequently required to utilize hand and finger dexterity.
  • Frequently/Continually required to talk or hear.
  • Occasionally required to lift/push light weights up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required for this job include [close vision, distance vision, peripheral, depth, and ability to adjust or focus].
  • Utilize visual acuity to operate equipment, read technical information, and/or use a keyboard.
  • The noise level in the work environment usually is quiet to moderately loud.

COVID-19 Considerations:
• UnidosUS follows CDC guidance and strongly encourages employees to stay up to date on vaccinations and practice a range of preventive measures to support their well-being and maintain a healthy work environment.
The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Employment with UnidosUS is contingent upon the successful completion of a background screen.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, marital status, religion, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, personal appearance, family responsibilities, political affiliation, or enrollment in a college, university, technical school, or adult education.

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