Career opportunities in government – federal, state, and local – are endless. Government employees are scientists, engineers, policy workers, administrators, economists, writers, psychologists, artists, and everything in between. The big plus for working in government is that career training and development are part of the professional culture, there are great opportunities for advancement, and the field is known for relatively high job security. Often, the best method for securing a full-time position in this industry is through internships, volunteering, and/or networking.
Perhaps a stint in politics interests you. There are two basic strategies for entering the political scene, (1), starting out in a role or office and working your way up, and (2), developing an area of expertise first and then seeking to transfer in at a higher level. Look beyond the obvious.
Examples of career opportunities in local, state, and federal government sectors:
Opportunities within local, state, and federal government are abundant. Local and state governments not only elect officials, they also manage city utilities, oversee permitting, and offer emergency services, among many other job possibilities.
Federal job options are available that align with all areas of study. The most urgent hiring needs with federal agencies include opportunities in public health, engineering, science, human resources, technology, and economics. For general information on job and internship titles in the federal government, see the Partnership for Public Service information on student and entry-level hiring.
- Legislative Assistant
- Policy Analyst
- Political Scientist
- Urban and Regional Planner
- Social Science Research Assistants
Professional Organizations provide excellent resources for students, ranging from career development resources and student memberships to job and internship postings. Examples include:
- Federal Managers Association
- The American Federation of Government Employees
- Young Government Leaders
Student Organizations and Volunteer Opportunities
Provide connections with others interested in similar career pursuits. Check out Duke Groups to find student organizations across campus such as:
- Public Policy Studies Majors Union
- Duke Healthcare Policy Forum
- Duke Sanford Journal of Public Policy
- Duke American Grand Strategy Program
- Duke Democrats
- Duke Republicans
- Young Americans for Liberty
DukeEngage offers a large number of summer programs, both domestic and abroad, which relate to service, policy, and community action.
Research
Conducting research can be a great way to get involved on campus, explore a specific academic topic, and work closely with faculty members and graduate students. The Undergraduate Research Support Office offers resources for getting involved in research both on campus and at other institutions- check out the “opportunities” page to explore options.
Here are a few policy-specific research programs available at Duke:
- POLIS The Center for Political Leadership Innovation Service
Seeks to engage in politics and enlist the creative energies of the Duke community—students, faculty, staff, and alumni—to promote what politics could be - Duke Center for Child and Family Policy
Pursues science-based solutions to important problems affecting today’s children and families - Center for Health Policy & Inequalities
To improve the health of individuals and communities, locally, nationally, and internationally, by addressing health inequities through interdisciplinary policy-relevant evaluative and intervention-based research - The Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy
To improve health and the value of health care by developing and implementing evidence-based policy solutions locally, nationally, and globally - Counterterrorism & Public Policy Fellowship Program
Designed to provide professionals in the national security and counterterrorism fields with an intensive educational experience - Triangle Center on Terrorism and Homeland Security
Faculty conduct research, comment on current events and policy debates, and run executive education programs
Examples of employers who have hired Duke students interested in Government and Politics (this is not a comprehensive list):
- Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
- The White House
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Third Way – A centrist think tank
- NC Governor’s Office
- NC Justice Center
Overall, there are a variety of ways to work in government and politics, and some self-exploration, investigation of options, and conversations with people in the field can help you gain insight into where your best fit may lie.
