Insight into Policy is a series of events that take place over the academic year. The aim is to help you gain an understanding of the different types of roles and entry points within policy careers. You will hear from policy professionals about the challenges in the field and have the opportunity to take part in a policy exercise with fellow students, working together to develop responses to real policy challenges.
A policy provides a solution to a challenge. Policies effect our daily life, from our commute to university, our access to health and education and our experience of the environment. Contributing to shaping policy can have a real impact on people’s lives.
Programme structure
This programme is comprised of one event per term during the 2026-27 academic year, and is as follows:
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Michaelmas term: Introduction to careers in policy: Thursday 26 November 12 – 1pm
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Hilary term: Panel session with professionals working in policy, Tuesday 23 February, 12-1pm
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Trinity term: Policy challenge hackathon, date tbc, taking place in person at the Careers Service, 56 Banbury Road, Oxford. (There are limited places for the policy hackathon allocated on a first come, first served bases when advertised.)
Students can choose which of the sessions they may like to attend and there is no requirement to attend all three.
Outcomes
By the end of this programme you will have:
- Explored career options in the field of policy work
- Gained experience of working in a team to come up with policy solutions
- Learned from policy professionals about the challenges in the field
- Gained ideas from experts for getting further experience of policy at Oxford.
Selection
There is no application required to take part in this programme. Register for the sessions on CareerConnect. Please note that places are limited for the in-person policy challenge so once registrations open, book early to avoid disappointment
Eligibility
The programme is open to matriculated Oxford University undergraduate and postgraduate students, including DPhils.
We cannot accept Saïd Business School students*, visiting students, research staff, or alumni.
*Exceptions: MSc Law and Finance, MSc Financial Economics, DPhils, BA Economics & Management
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose a policy area for the policy challenge?
Each team will be randomly allocated a policy area in the group exercise. Individuals are not able to choose or change their team.
Does it matter what subject I'm studying or what year I am in?
This programme is open to students from all subjects and year groups and is aimed at those with little or no policy experience.
What do I need to take part for the policy challenge?
Please bring a device that can access the internet so you can fully participate in the policy challenge.
What is the time commitment of this insight programme?
This programme is comprised of three optional sessions.
How do I know this is the right programme for me?
This programme is aimed at those with little or no experience in the sector who want to understand what a career in policy might look like and typical roles available. We recommend booking an appointment with a careers adviser to talk through any questions you have.
Any other questions?
If you cannot find the answer to your question, please get in touch on courses@careers.ox.ac.uk or book an appointment with a careers adviser.
