Intelligence Studies Schools | Schools.com

The demand for accurate and reliable intelligence since September 11th, 2001 has created new career opportunities. The outlook for work in intelligence is very positive, with robust job growth forecast for both the private and public sectors. Salaries in the field are predicted to keep pace with or stay ahead of demand.

Which types of intelligence studies jobs are available?

Jobs using a wide range of skill sets are being filled in the intelligence field. The complexity and quantity of the information now being collected, combined with the ongoing development of sophisticated technology, has expanded the scope of intelligence jobs far beyond traditional positions. Most work is found in government agencies, with 16 federal agencies currently employing intelligence professionals, but there is growing demand for qualified people in the private sector, as well. These intelligence professionals gather and analyze information related to domestic and international security issues.

Completing one of the available intelligence studies degree programs may afford you many exciting opportunities. You may have the chance to travel to fascinating places, work on important assignments, make decisions that influence governmental policy at a high level, and be privy to highly confidential and sensitive information. Another positive aspect of intelligence work for federal employees is the vast array of benefits that come with government positions.

A career in intelligence may also present you with significant challenges. Any job applicant will have to undergo extremely thorough screening before receiving security clearance. When you apply for positions within the field, particularly for government agencies, every aspect of your life, not just your work history, will be scrutinized. Psychological and physical screenings are also conducted, as well as drug testing.

Formal training required to work in a career related to intelligence studies

A bachelor's degree is almost always required for entrance into the field, and many job applicants hold higher intelligence studies degrees. Highly specialized programs in intelligence studies education offer bachelor's and master's degrees in intelligence management. Degrees in intelligence studies focus on every aspect of intelligence work--analysis, collection, counterintelligence and covert action--and include courses with titles, such as bomb threat management, infiltration techniques, advanced counterterrorism operations, and interviewing and debriefing.

The typical career path of someone interested in intelligence studies

Intelligence careers generally fall into one of seven broadly inclusive categories: analysis, science and technology, information technology, intelligence collection, language, security, and financial management and acquisitions.

Within these categories, there are abundant areas of expertise. If you complete your intelligence studies research in political science, international studies or regional studies, you can find a job as a political analyst or intelligence specialist. If you love languages, you could find work as a translator. Interested in computer science or mathematics? Your studies might take you into a position as an information technology specialist, a network operations or information assurance officer, or maybe even a scientist working in imagery or research. A background in finance, business administration or accounting could lead to contracting, acquisitions or financial management, while an interest in biology or chemistry could pave the way toward becoming a forensic specialist.

Job outlook and salary information for those interested in intelligence studies

Prospects for intelligence professionals remain bright, and are expected to stay that way. A recent survey by Money Magazine and PayScale.com ranked "intelligence analyst" as one of the top 10 jobs in the U.S. labor market based on salary, job opportunities and quality of life criteria.

Citing statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the survey listed starting salaries for an entry-level position in intelligence analysis at $40,000, the median salary for an experienced intelligence analyst at $82,000, and the top end at $115,000. The survey also stated that the number of analyst positions in this country, in both public and private sectors, is expected to grow by 15 percent in the next five years. For intelligence jobs with the federal government, salary will depend on a variety of factors. USAJOBS.gov, the federal government's official job search site, lists several openings in intelligence, ranging in annual pay from $50,287 to $123,758.