GraduateSmart
GraduateSmart
Drafts legislation, briefs lawmakers, manages constituent issues, and tracks votes. Career path into policy roles or campaign management.
$31,600
Lower reported wage
$46,290
Median
$64,150
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.

Build a personalized Roadmap Plan with CLEP savings and school matches.
Create free account →The Senate source describes one setting; titles and entry expectations differ across offices. [1]
Search CareerOneStop by occupation and state, then confirm the rules with the issuing agency. Coverage is incomplete; an empty result does not mean no license is required.
About license data coverageAsk whether any internship, field placement, or supervised training in your chosen route is paid; arrangements vary.
Exam is FREE with Modern States
Sign up free at modernstates.org, complete the course, and receive a voucher that covers the full $97 exam fee.
modernstates.orgCLEP Introductory Business Law
3 credits · Business & Law
$1,703
saved
CLEP American Government
3 credits · Political Science
$1,703
saved
CLEP Introduction to Sociology
3 credits · Sociology
$1,703
saved
CLEP History of the United States I
3 credits · History
$1,703
saved
U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
Wages reconciled to BLS OEWS May 2024 for SOC 43-6014 (Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive): A_PCT10-A_PCT90 = $31,600-$64,150, median $46,290. The OES P90 ($64,150) understates this premium sub-market, where senior and specialized compensation routinely exceeds it.
Illustration: AI-generated image · Illustrative scene
Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
Relevant policy foundation; add research, writing, and office experience. [1]
Track legislation, prepare recommendations, and brief senior staff or lawmakers. [1]
Legislative offices, committees, and meetings with constituents or stakeholders. [1]
Legislative sessions, votes, and urgent requests may extend hours. [1]
Competing requests and sensitive information require judgment and accuracy. [1]
Policy expertise may lead to senior adviser or legislative director. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.