Policy Research | Boise State University

Skills & Competencies

Skills developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET via SOC 19-4061.00

Skills

Reading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingActive ListeningWritingSpeakingComplex Problem SolvingScienceJudgment and Decision Making

Knowledge

English LanguageComputers and ElectronicsAdministrativeMathematicsCustomer and Personal Service

Abilities

Oral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionOral ExpressionWritten ExpressionInformation OrderingDeductive ReasoningNear VisionInductive ReasoningSpeech ClarityProblem Sensitivity

Tasks

Design and create special programs for tasks such as statistical analysis and data entry and cleanin
Provide assistance with the preparation of project-related reports, manuscripts, and presentations.
Prepare tables, graphs, fact sheets, and written reports summarizing research results.
Write grant proposals.

Technology

Graphics or photo imaging softwareDesktop publishing softwareComputer based training softwareObject or component oriented development softwareData base user interface and query software

Tools

Computer data input scannersComputer laser printersDesktop computersMulti-line telephone systemsPersonal computersPhotocopying equipmentTablet computersTranscription equipment

Work Values

IndependenceAchievementWorking ConditionsRelationshipsRecognitionSupport

Career Pathways

Occupations this program prepares you for

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET + BLS

Occupations matched to this program, with median wage, top wage, growth, and openings
SOC	Occupation	Method	Wage	Growth	Openings
Match confidence: medium19-4061.00	Social Science Research Assistants	title_inference	—	—	—

Program Pathways

Credentials this program stacks toward

No program pathways.

What You'll Learn

Key competencies developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom NSX Competency Framework

Mastery: proficient (Level 3)(based on Post-Baccalaureate Certificate)

Complex multivariate and inferential statistical analyses — design and execute autonomously, selecting appropriate methods based on research design and data characteristics in a professional research environment.
Purpose-built analytical programs — develop and document using object-oriented or scripting languages to handle non-routine data transformations and statistical modeling tasks.
Large-scale relational databases — architect, optimize, and manage end-to-end across multi-year research projects, ensuring data integrity and accessibility for interdisciplinary teams.
Comprehensive research quality control frameworks — develop and enforce across all project phases, diagnosing systemic data issues and implementing validated corrective procedures.
Peer-reviewed manuscripts and technical reports — lead the drafting and revision of, synthesizing quantitative findings with contextual interpretation suitable for academic and policy audiences.
Ambiguous or conflicting datasets — evaluate critically using inductive and deductive reasoning to resolve analytical challenges without supervisory input in fast-paced research contexts.
Geographic information system analyses — conduct independently to integrate spatial variables into social science research designs and enrich multivariate models.
Research presentations — deliver authoritatively to diverse audiences including academic conferences, funding agencies, and government clients, defending methodological choices under scrutiny.
Junior research staff — mentor in statistical methods, software use, and scientific writing, providing structured feedback that accelerates professional development.
Cross-functional project timelines and data workflows — manage and coordinate across team members and institutional partners to ensure on-schedule delivery of research outputs.

Program Details

Detailed information about this program

No detailed information available.

Requirements

What you need to earn this credential

No requirements listed.

Financial Aid

Eligible funding programs

No funding information available.

Scholarships

No scholarships listed.