Fall/Winter 2026 Higher Education Policy Fellow

Fall/Winter 2026 Higher Education Policy Fellow

Location: Fully Remote

Compensation: $1,850/month

Term: November 2026 - March 2027

Hours: 20/week

Overview

The Fall/Winter 2026 Higher Education Policy Fellowship is designed for current graduate students who are deeply interested in higher education policy and eager to apply strong research and analytical skills in a fast-paced consulting environment.

The fellow will primarily support a national 50-state research project focused on education-to-workforce alignment, contributing to data gathering and analysis and supporting interviews with key stakeholders as part of the research process.

This role is best suited for individuals who are comfortable working with data, synthesizing complex information, and producing high-quality written deliverables.

What You’ll Do

The fellow will support the project team through research, analysis, and client-facing work, including:

• Gathering data and conducting research to support a national 50-state scan of education-to-workforce alignment

• Performing data collection, analysis, and synthesis to support policy insights and recommendations

• Supporting the research process by preparing for and documenting stakeholder interviews

• Contributing to the development of client deliverables, including reports, memos, slide decks, and briefs

• Attending and summarizing virtual interviews with key partners and stakeholders

• Attending internal project meetings and client-facing calls

Required Qualifications

• Current enrollment in or recent graduation from a graduate program (master’s or Ph.D.) in public policy, higher education, economics, political science, or a related field. Undergraduate students not eligible.

• Demonstrated strong interest in higher education policy

• Strong research and data analysis skills, including the ability to interpret and synthesize quantitative and qualitative information

• Familiarity and comfort with deciphering legislative and budget documents

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex topics for different audiences

• Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and work both independently and collaboratively

• Must be based in the United States

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior academic or professional experience in higher education policy, workforce development, or a related field

• Experience working with datasets, policy analysis, or program evaluation

• Familiarity with state or federal policy processes

• Organized and attentive to details

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience contributing to real-world policy and strategy projects

• Exposure to state and national leaders in higher education and workforce policy

• Opportunities to build skills in policy research, data analysis, and client deliverable development

• Mentorship from experienced policy professionals

About HCM Strategists

HCM Strategists is a public policy consulting firm dedicated to improving postsecondary education and workforce outcomes. We partner with state leaders, institutions, and national organizations to design and implement policies that expand economic mobility and advance equity.

For more information, visit our website at www.hcmstrategists.com.

Equal Opportunity Statement

HCM Strategists is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment and ensuring all applicants receive fair consideration regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.