Intelligence Analysis, Master of Science

MS in Intelligence Analysis

The Master of Science in Intelligence Analysis program provides students interested in launching or advancing their career in intelligence analysis with the core competencies needed to succeed in an array of intelligence analysis roles. The program provides a theoretical grounding in the discipline, as well as mastery of the core skills required to succeed as an intelligence analyst in the public and private sectors. JHU's MSIA degree emphasizes the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to identify actionable insights from diverse and complex intelligence sources, and persuasively communicate those findings to decision-makers. Courses are taught by leading practitioners in the intelligence community with significant opportunities for students to engage with both faculty and their peers. Graduates of the program will be highly qualified for key roles within public and private sector intelligence agencies. 

Admissions Criteria for all Advanced Academic Programs 

PROGRAM-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

In addition to the general admissions criteria for all Advanced Academic Programs, applicants should submit:

• Resume
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose: Write a one- to two-page statement of purpose explaining your reasons for seeking admission as well as a plan of study addressing your analytical abilities and interest in studying the theory and practice of intelligence analysis.
• Writing Sample: Identify an emerging trend that is likely to influence the profession of intelligence analysis. Drawing on at least three sources, detail the implications of the trend for the future of U.S. private and/or public intelligence operations and present your findings in a one- to two-page executive brief to a senior decision-maker.  

Program Requirements

Students must complete eight required core courses and four elective courses.

Curriculum

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Core Courses-Required:		24
AS.473.600	The Art & Practice of Intelligence (Introductory course)
AS.473.602	Intelligence Analysis
AS.473.604	Applied Critical Thinking and Analysis
AS.473.605	Strategic Culture Analysis
AS.473.607	Intelligence Ethics
AS.473.608	Leading Intelligence Organizations
AS.473.800	Research Seminar
AS.473.801	Capstone: Current Issues in Intelligence
Elective Courses:		12
Select four of the following:
AS.473.606	Legal Issues in Intelligence
AS.473.609	Introduction to Intelligence in the Five Eyes Community
AS.473.644	Technical Collection of Intelligence
AS.473.660	Intelligence and Counterterrorism
AS.473.663	The Intelligence-Policy Nexus
AS.473.668	Intelligence to Secure the Homeland and Hometown
Total Credits		36

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Master of Science in Intelligence Analysis program are expected to be able to:

• Discern, extract, and synthesize relevant information from diffuse and extensive intelligence sources in response to current policy and security challenges.
• Employ time-sensitive critical analysis in an environment of ambiguity.
• Inform and persuade diverse audiences using oral, written, and visual media to inform decision-making.
• Evaluate ethical and legal principles in the field of intelligence analysis.
• Analyze and apply effective leadership and management skills for resourcing intelligence operations and organizations.
• Create an inclusive approach to decision-making that fosters awareness of regional and global contexts.