Requirements

Elected officer or representative - requirements

As an elected officer or representative, you’ll act on behalf of the public at either a local, regional or national government level. You’ll work on developing policies and formulating legislation. Read on to learn more about a career as an elected officer or representative.

Know what you'll need to land a job below.

What qualifications do you need to be an elected officer or representative?

A politics degree will go a long way but there are plenty of relevant degree courses. Subject areas to consider include:

Please note this is a beta version. We'll continue to improve our suggestions here so that we show you the most relevant subjects.

Do you need a postgraduate qualification to work as an elected officer or representative?

You’re unlikely to need a postgraduate degree but having one will likely increase your knowledge and credentials.

Examples of taught MAs and research degrees at postgraduate level include MAs in:

Political science
Politics
MA in government
Public relations

What skills do you need to be an elected officer or representative?

As well as a passion for politics and society, you’ll need to show an ability to work with other people in pressurised environments.

Hard skills usually include:

Legal and legislative knowledge
An understanding of society
Microsoft Office 365

Soft skills include:

Communication
Presentation
Organisation
Debating
Initiative
Listening
Administration

Do you need work experience to be an elected officer or representative?

You’ll need relevant work experience before becoming an elected official at national or local level. This may take several years. Some local authorities offer work experience placements and internships to students and graduates and certain uni courses will involve a placement that can act as great work experience.