Intelligence Studies

Overview

Become a trained intelligence professional — earn your intelligence studies degree online.

The B.A. in Intelligence Studies from Notre Dame College delivers cutting-edge skills and experience in a curriculum that is 100% focused on intelligence work, so you build core research and analysis skills. You will gain critical hands-on experience using simulation technology in a state-of-the-art situation room located on campus, so you understand not only what to do but exactly how to do it.

The curriculum is constantly updated to align with real-world national security concerns, so you will graduate with the most relevant knowledge and have a competitive advantage interviewing for available positions in the private sector.

Topics of Study

You will complete your B.A. in Intelligence Studies online with a senior research project and internship after you study:

• Terrorism
• Competitive Business Intelligence
• Methods of Financial Investigation and Research
• Intelligence and National Security
• Advanced Research and Analysis
• Writing for Intelligence

The faculty for our online bachelor’s degree in intelligence studies are all former or current professionals in the field. They are eager to help you step into this challenging and rewarding industry and provide personal attention through regular advising sessions and individual meetings.

The program is designed for outstanding students to begin studying for an advanced degree during their bachelor’s program. You can apply in your senior year to our Master of Arts in National Security and Intelligence Studies (NSIS). Students who qualify can also start coursework for the NSIS program in their senior year to save time and money while pursuing a graduate degree.*

Earning your intelligence studies degree online means you can learn in the times and locations that are best for you.

*Students wishing to begin the M.A. in NSIS graduate program in their senior year must have a 3.5 cumulative GPA. If students apply after receiving their B.A., the GPA requirement is 3.0 or higher.

Learning Outcomes

Complete your intelligence studies degree online at Notre Dame College and be ready on day one of your new position to:

1. Write and deliver oral reports consistent with the expectations of the intelligence community.
2. Identify, describe and discuss the intelligence cycle and the intelligence process knowledgeably.
3. Recognize the various federal agencies that make up the national intelligence community and discuss their respective missions.
4. Identify professional ethics and how they apply to the intelligence profession.
5. Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively in diverse groups.
6. Demonstrate intelligence skills, abilities and knowledge in a non-academic setting through an internship.
7. Evaluate intelligence issues or challenges.
8. Appraise contemporary or emerging threats, challenges or issues pertaining to national security, homeland security, regional or international security, law enforcement or business.

This Program Is Designed for:

• Students who wish to start or advance their careers through a flexible education format.
• Those who have a commitment to service and want to serve their fellow man.
• People who like solving puzzles and mysteries, can deal with complex issues and are interested in current events and worldly affairs.
• Current police officers who are looking for an accelerated path* towards career advancement.

Why Notre Dame College

Located in South Euclid, Ohio, Notre Dame College is a small yet vibrant liberal arts Catholic college. We are committed to offering world-class learning both on campus and online with student success as our top priority. Our reputation for excellence is rooted in our variety of degree programs, expert instructors and continuous support of our students. Whether you learn on campus in Ohio or in one of our flexible online degree programs, you’ll experience the exceptional education Notre Dame College is known for.

Courses & Requirements

Gain the education and experience you need to have the upper hand in interviews for intelligence roles in the private sector. Our online bachelor’s degree in intelligence studies was first established after 9/11 and offers a holistic approach to IS.

It requires a total of 120 credit hours: 45 for the major and 75 in foundational studies.

Core Curriculum: Foundational Studies (75 Hours)

Foundational studies courses offer students a comprehensive introduction to a range of subject areas and help build skills necessary for academic and personal success.

B.A. Intelligence Studies (45 Hours)

Course	Description	Credits
IP 150	Introduction to U.S. Intelligence An overview of the scope, elements and history of intelligence activities, with special emphasis on the American experience. Particular attention is paid to the role of intelligence in a democratic society.	3
IP 250	Methods of Research and Analysis An integrated lecture and applications course that will develop basic skills in writing for intelligence, analysis, presentation and technology. Prerequisite: IP 150.	3
IP 253	Writing for Intelligence An introduction into the fundamentals of effective intelligence writing and presentation. Emphasis is placed on the variety of forms of intelligence writing, briefing styles and evaluation of intelligence products for form and substance and application of various advanced analytic techniques. Prerequisites: IP 150 and EN 110 or equivalent.	3
IP 350	Terrorism An examination of the origins of terrorism and its evolution in order to develop an understanding of the roots, development and impact of contemporary worldwide terrorism, especially in the United States. Special attention will be given to methods of recruitment, terrorist methodology and how terrorists use traditional and social media to achieve their goals. Prerequisite: sophomore standing or departmental permission.	3
IP 351	Competitive (Business) Intelligence Explores the actionable information needs of modern business for competitive intelligence and business analysis with an emphasis on practical exercises and the use of open sources. Prerequisite: sophomore standing or departmental permission.	3
IP 352	Methods of Financial Investigation and Research An examination of the tools and some of the financial backgrounds used by accountants and others in identifying financial fraud. Included is the examination of various types of records (bank, personal, etc.), which are at the center of financial investigation and analysis. Although some attention is paid to “white collar” crime, the course emphasizes the technical aspects involved in the investigation of financial crimes and the analysis of financial data necessary to make a financial case. Prerequisite: sophomore standing or departmental permission.	3
IP 353	Intelligence and National Security An introduction to the process of national security decision-making in the United States with a special emphasis on the role of intelligence in formulating policy. Included is a historical overview of national security politics and practices since World War II, a description of major institutions and processes in national security policy-making and a survey of significant national security problems and their changing nature in the 21st century. Prerequisite: sophomore standing or departmental permission.	3
IP 450	Senior Research Seminar This course is designed to provide intelligence studies majors with a capstone experience emphasizing the integration of knowledge acquired in previous courses on the major ideas, actors, institutions, policies and processes that shape the collection and assessment of intelligence in the United States. Students engage in the development of a senior-level research paper grounded in intelligence processes and intelligence studies literature. Prerequisite: Senior standing or departmental permission.	3
IP 452	Strategic Intelligence This course is divided into three parallel tracks that will cover strategic theory, the practice of strategic intelligence and the application of those principles to a “real-life” problem. Students will participate throughout the course as the member of a group in a large-scale estimative project. This project will require a minimum of two graded papers and two graded presentations, as well as a variety of more modest assignments. Prerequisite: junior standing or departmental permission.	3
IP 455	Advanced Research and Analysis A continuation of the introductory course, which strives to develop enhanced skill levels, research processes and analytical products. Prerequisites: IP 150, IP 250, IP 253, junior standing.	3
IP 495	Internship The internship requirement provides students with field experience at an intelligence-related agency or company of their choice. Students work closely with NDC Career Services in completing both the on-site and written requirements. Up to six internship credits can be applied to the major requirements; however, students can choose to take more internship credits as elective credits. Prerequisite: junior standing.	3
	Foreign Language Up to 12 credits in a foreign language must be taken.	12

*Police officers who have successfully completed OPOTA (Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy) as designated by an official transcript or certificate may use their experience to transfer up to 30 credit hours towards this degree. Students who have completed police academy training out of state may also be eligible.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the online B.A. in Intelligence Studies degree program, you must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and official transcripts from all previously attended accredited institutions.

Start your online application now.

How to Apply

Students applying for admission to the online intelligence studies degree program must submit the following materials:

1. A complete online application
2. Official high school transcripts or GED score
3. Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions

Costs & Financial Aid

Notre Dame College Online features a high-quality education at a price you can afford. See how your past academic credentials can help you make the most of your college education.

Outcomes & Resources

Careers

Learn more about potential careers available after you graduate. Some include:

• Intelligence Officer
• Special Agent
• Social Media Analyst
• Criminal Investigator

Related Programs

Learn more about similar programs of study offered by Notre Dame College.

Frequently Asked Questions

What steps can I take to succeed in an online program?

Success as an online student requires self-motivation. Online students practice discipline as they work to meet obligations at school, home and work. Each week, you will dedicate time to coursework, and it is essential to take part in discussions and meet assignment deadlines. If you need information or have questions, be sure to reach out to your advisor.

Can I afford Notre Dame College Online?

Yes! Notre Dame College Online recognizes the importance of an affordable education, and we strive to ensure your financial situation is not a boundary when it comes to your career success. Refer to our Financial Aid page to learn more about how to pay for your degree.

What is FAFSA and how can it help me fund my education?

The Free Application for Free Student Aid determines your eligibility for financial aid programs, such as loans and grants. It helps identify the types of aid you may receive, such as federal and state grants, work study programs and low interest loans. We strongly recommend you fill out your FAFSA form each year to help identify which financial aid opportunities may be available to you.

What cybersecurity careers can I pursue after graduation?

The online cybersecurity degree program helps you prepare for a range of roles in IT and information security. Opportunities include information security analyst, cybersecurity technician and security engineer. Additionally, the skills and knowledge that you gain in this program serve as the foundation for executive IT roles, such as chief security officer and chief information officer.