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Career Compass: Mapping Educational Routes to Law, Governance, and Public Policy

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21 Mar 2025

8 Min Read

Taylor's Team (Editor)
IN THIS ARTICLE

Lost at what to study? Discover your direction with our Career Compass! Explore opportunities in the Law, Governance, and Public Policy industry to map your educational path.

The world is changing rapidly, and with it, the rules that govern society. From ensuring ethical AI (artificial intelligence) decision-making to regulating carbon markets and tackling deepfake content, professionals in law, governance, and public policy play a crucial role in shaping fair and transparent systems. If you’re interested in technology, sustainability, and policymaking, these emerging careers offer exciting opportunities to drive meaningful change.

What is Law, Governance, and Public Policy?

But what exactly is law, governance, and public policy, and why should you, as a high schooler or high school graduate, consider a career in these fields? The answer lies in its role as the foundation of a just and well-functioning society—shaping laws, regulations, and ethical standards that impact everything from human rights to environmental policies and digital security.

What are the careers in Law, Governance, and Public Policy?

The fields of law, governance, and public policy offer a wide range of dynamic career paths that shape societies, uphold justice, and drive ethical decision-making. Whether you’re interested in legal frameworks, policymaking, regulatory compliance, or digital ethics, there’s a niche for you. Let’s explore some exciting emerging careers in this field and the educational routes to achieving them!

1. Legislative & Policy Research Analyst

three adults discuss about work
What does this career do?

 

A Legislative & Policy Research Analyst plays a key role in shaping laws and policies that impact society. They research legal and political issues, analyse government regulations, and track economic and social trends to help policymakers make informed decisions. Their work involves writing policy briefs, drafting legislative proposals, and preparing reports for governments, think tanks, and private organisations. 

 

Where can you work in this career?
 
Who is this career for? 

 

This career is ideal for those who are curious about how laws and policies shape society and want to be part of the decision-making process. If you’re passionate about research, critical thinking, and writing, this field offers a meaningful path for you. 

 

What to study for this career?

2. Financial & Trade Policy Consultant

Male working professional presents in front of his stakeholders
What does this career do?

 

A Financial & Trade Policy Consultant helps businesses and governments understand and adapt to changes in economic policies, trade regulations, and financial laws. Their job is to analyse how new trade agreements, taxes, or financial rules affect companies and industries. They also advise businesses on staying compliant with global trade laws while remaining competitive in the international market.

 

Where can you work in this career?
  • MATRADE: Supports businesses in expanding to international markets while ensuring they follow trade laws and agreements.
  • YCP Group: Advises businesses on trade policies, financial regulations, and investment strategies to help them stay competitive and compliant with international trade rules.
  • PwC Malaysia: Provides consulting services that align businesses and governments with global trade laws, financial regulations, and evolving economic trends. 
 
Who is this career for? 

 

This career is ideal for those who are curious about how money moves across countries and how policies shape business decisions. If you're passionate about economics, trade, and global markets, this role lets you contribute to key financial and policy decisions across government, consulting, or multinational sectors.

 

What to study for this career?
  • High School: Focus on subjects like Economics, Principles of Accounting, Business and Mathematics.
  • Pre-U: Consider a foundation or a diploma in Arts, Business. Cambridge A Level or AUSMAT are excellent options too.
  • Undergraduate: Pursue a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Economics or Business.
  • Beyond: Advanced degrees or certifications in geo-economics & trade strategy or generative AI in Fintech can be beneficial.

3. Cyber Law & Digital Ethics Advisor

Man in glass thinking in front of his working screen displaying programming codes
What does this career do?

 

A Cyber Law & Digital Ethics Advisor helps businesses and organisations navigate legal and ethical issues in the digital world. Their job includes developing policies to keep personal data safe, preventing online threats like hacking and scams, and making sure businesses use AI responsibly.

 

Where can you work in this career?
  • IBM Malaysia: Provides cybersecurity solutions, data protection, and compliance advisory to help businesses safeguard digital assets and prevent cyber threats.
  • Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC): Develops cybersecurity policies, promotes AI ethics, and supports businesses in ensuring data protection.
  • LGMS: Specialises in penetration testing, digital forensics, and cybersecurity compliance, helping organisations strengthen security and follow data privacy laws.  
 
Who is this career for? 

 

This career is ideal for those who are interested in technology, online security, and digital laws. If you’re passionate about keeping personal information safe, preventing online threats, and making sure businesses use technology responsibly, this role is for you.

 

What to study for this career?
  • High School: Focus on subjects like Physics, Computer Science, and Mathematics.
  • Pre-U: Consider a foundation in Computing or a diploma in Information Technology. Cambridge A Level or AUSMAT are excellent options too.
  • Undergraduate: Pursue a bachelor’s degree in Law or Computer Science with a specialisation in Cyber Security.
  • Beyond: Advanced degrees or certifications in global tech law & comparative cyber law or digital human rights & data soverignty can be beneficial.

4. Carbon Market & Climate Finance Regulator

Colleagues brainstorming in meeting room relating to ESG
What does this career do?

 

A Carbon Market & Climate Finance Regulator helps create rules that guide businesses in reducing carbon emissions and staying compliant with environmental laws. They manage carbon trading systems, assess risks in green investments, and work with financial bodies to develop climate-related policies.

 

Where can you work in this career?
  • Bursa Carbon Exchange (BCX): Facilitates the trading of carbon credits in Malaysia to support the country’s low-carbon transition.
  • Chemsain Konsultant: Partners with international firms to develop carbon projects and generate carbon credits across Malaysia.
  • Climate Impact X (Singapore): Operates a global marketplace for high-quality carbon credits to support companies in achieving their climate goals.
 
Who is this career for? 

 

This career is ideal for those who are passionate about sustainability, finance, and environmental policy. If you’re interested in how businesses can balance profits with environmental responsibility, this role offers opportunities to work on real-world climate solutions.

 

What to study for this career?
  • High School: Focus on subjects like Mathematics, Principles of Accounting, Economics, Geography, and Science.  
  • Pre-U: Consider a foundation in Business or a diploma in Accounting or Business. Cambridge A Level or AUSMAT are excellent options too.
  • Undergraduate: Pursue a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Economics or professional papers in ACCA.
  • Beyond: Advanced degrees or certifications blockchain-based carbon credit ecosystems or green quantitative easing can enhance your expertise.

5. Deepfake Regulation & Media Integrity Expert

Male working professional presents his data findings
What does this career do?

 

A Deepfake Regulation & Media Integrity Expert works on policies and laws to stop the spread of fake videos, AI-generated misinformation, and digital scams. They develop rules for how AI-generated content should be used and monitored, especially on social media and digital platforms. 

 

Where can you work in this career?
  • WISE AI: Develops AI-driven digital identity solutions with a focus on facial recognition and deepfake prevention technologies.
  • ST Engineering: Develops AI-powered tools like deepfake detection systems to enhance digital trust and combat misinformation across media platforms.
  • Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC): Regulates digital content, media laws, and online safety in Malaysia.
 
Who is this career for? 

 

This career is perfect for those who are interested in technology, media, and standing up for what’s fair and true online. If you're passionate about using tech to fight misinformation, protect digital rights, and make online spaces more transparent and trustworthy, this role could be ideal.

 

What to study for this career?

Conclusion

Embarking on a career in law, governance, or public policy opens up exciting roles—from shaping laws and trade policies to protecting digital rights, tackling climate risks, and regulating online content. Whether you’re into justice, tech, or sustainability, there’s a path for you in this field.

 

By focusing on the right subjects in high school and pursuing relevant degrees and skills, you can turn your passion into a meaningful career that drives positive change. Remember, the future of governance is in your hands—and it’s one full of purpose and potential.

Inspired by the career options in this article? Book a session with our education counsellor and take the first step towards your future.
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