Online Bachelor of Arts in Intelligence Studies (BA)
Discover how intelligence professionals examine key and trending issues, analyze complex information, and respond to global security challenges. This degree program at American Military University (AMU) focuses on how intelligence operations shape global and homeland-related topics and influence a broad set of issues ranging from strategic national policy efforts to drone warfare.
Program Overview
The BA in Intelligence Studies from American Military University (AMU) examines the relationship between intelligence and a wide variety of security issues. Faculty share real-world insights from their experience in the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC), military operations, security enterprises, and corporate intelligence.
AMU has a longstanding military legacy and offers intelligence studies degree programs at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. This bachelor’s degree program explores the strategies used by professionals within the national security and corporate sectors. Courses address a broad set of topics to include foundational analytic and intelligence collection techniques the IC employs to gather and interpret information.
Students in the program also explore courses that introduce intelligence tools, hands-on analysis exercises, and methods used to protect critical infrastructure and assess emerging threats.
Through AMU’s online program, students develop an understanding of essential topics, such as:
- National and international intelligence operations
- Intelligence analysis and collection
- Counterintelligence operations
- Foreign policy
- Law and ethics
- Threat analysis
Intelligence Studies Degree Concentrations
Students in this online intelligence studies degree program choose from one of many concentration tracks. Each track consists of specialized coursework that examines the IC’s functions and duties.
Select a concentration to learn more.
About the Concentration
This general concentration allows you to select from other concentration courses offered in this program.
Program Objectives
About the Concentration
Takes an in-depth look at Asia, including its security issues and the role of intelligence within the region. Topics include analysis techniques, including hypothesis generation, red-teaming, and adversarial collaboration; and the conflict between traditional norms and modern institutions.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Analyze the role Intelligence plays within a specific country or region.
- Examine the impact of US policy on the region.
- Assess the security issues of the region.
- Explain the role of religion in the political, economic, and cultural life of the area.
About the Concentration
Demonstrates U.S. intelligence agencies use of counterintelligence and covert action to guard America's global interests and protect national security. Examines the counterintelligence professional’s role in overt and covert operations, and delves into research methods and tools used in counterintelligence.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Acquire a general knowledge of Counterintelligence research, analysis, and operations.
- Analyze threats in the counterintelligence arena.
- Examine the role of the Counterintelligence professional in both overt and covert operational styles.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the use of selected research methods and tools as they pertain to the counterintelligence environment.
About the Concentration
Addresses intelligence processes and procedures in criminal justice, various techniques used to understand violence, and the differences between crime, war, and terrorism. Covers criminal intelligence analysis and strategic organized crime; cyber warfare’s use in military, terrorist, and, criminal organizations; and the illegal drug trade’s impact on national security and intelligence gathering.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Explain intelligence processes and procedures in the criminal justice community.
- Analyze the differences between crime, war, and terrorism.
- Evaluate the various techniques and methodologies used within the Criminal Justice community to understand the different aspects of violence and accomplish their goals.
About the Concentration
Offers an overview of cyber warfare and the potential impact of its use by military, terrorist, and criminal organizations, as well as the various methods of collection and analysis. Looks at the use of strategic and operational level communications (COMINT) and electronics (ELINT) intelligence. Topics also include the change in laws to account for crimes in the digital age.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Analyze advanced intelligence data collection methods in supporting analyses on issues critical to intelligence community consumers.
- Examine the full spectrum of the intelligence collection cycle and articulate effectively intelligence needs in future collection planning.
- Assess the range of collection methods being used to fill intelligence gaps as well as the potential impact of future collection systems and capabilities and their ability to satisfy customers' intelligence requirements.
About the Concentration
Within this concentration students will gain foundational knowledge on the use and application of geospatial intelligence. Students will complete a variety of applied assignments that will require the use of geospatial intelligence tools to complete their work. Upon completion of the program students will have received instruction on core competencies specific to geospatial collection and analysis.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Analyze threats using tools and techniques specific to geospatial analysis.
- Examine the role of geospatial intelligence within the intelligence cycle.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the use of selected research methods and tools as they pertain to geospatial intelligence.
About the Concentration
Provides an understanding of how to interpret information generated from a variety of different organizations and sources into a highly cogent and professional intelligence product. Explores using existing knowledge to find meaning behind what is not immediately apparent to forecast events or consequences and draw conclusions with a high degree of reliability and precision.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Examine advanced intelligence analysis methods in composing professional and academic analyses on issues critical to intelligence community consumers.
- Evaluate and interpret information generated from a variety of different organizations and sources into a highly cogent and professional intelligence product.
- Employ a broad, subtle, and nuanced understanding of existing knowledge to find meaning behind what is not immediately apparent to forecast events or consequences and draw conclusions with a high degree of reliability and precision.
About the Concentration
Considers collective methods used to fill gaps in intelligence, as well as the potential impacts of future collection systems and their ability to satisfy intelligence requirements. Also covers: the full spectrum of the intelligence collection cycle; intelligence needs in future collection planning; and advanced methods of collecting data to support intelligence community consumers.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Analyze advanced intelligence data collection methods in supporting analyses on issues critical to intelligence community consumers.
- Examine the full spectrum of the intelligence collection cycle and articulate effectively intelligence needs in future collection planning.
- Assess the range of collection methods being used to fill intelligence gaps as well as the potential impact of future collection systems and capabilities and their ability to satisfy customers' intelligence requirements.
About the Concentration
Surveys the nature and challenges to military planning of operations other than war, such as peacekeeping operations, low-intensity conflicts, and humanitarian relief efforts. Looks into ways to facilitate cooperation with others across the intelligence community, as well as intelligence management skills necessary for planning, management, and leadership positions.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Employ intelligence management skills required by planning and management positions in the intelligence community.
- Identify ways to facilitate cooperation with other individuals and organizations across the intelligence community to advance projects and corporate goals.
- Examine the nature and challenges to military planning of combined operations and operations other than war including peacekeeping operations, low intensity conflicts, and humanitarian relief operations.
About the Concentration
Explores the politics, cultures, history, and predominant language of Latin America, as well as U.S. intelligence operations there to guard America's global interests and protect national security. Topics include security issues in the region and the part intelligence plays in the war on drugs.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Analyze the role Intelligence plays in the War on Drugs.
- Examine the impact of U.S. policy on the region.
- Assess the security issues of the region.
- Explain the role of the political, economic, and cultural life of the area.
About the Concentration
Delves into the intelligence community and its relationship to the Middle East through the region’s language, politics, history, and culture. Topics include a study of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam; major Middle Eastern literary works dating back to ancient times; the origins and evolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict; and past and present U.S. foreign policy in the Muslim world.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Analyze the role Intelligence plays within a specific country or region.
- Examine the impact of U.S. policy on the region.
- Assess the security issues of the region.
- Explain the role of religion in the political, economic, and cultural life of the area.
About the Concentration
Evaluates leading terrorist organizations and their agendas, as well as the causes of and threats from domestic and international terrorism. Explores information sharing limits under the PATRIOT Act and the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act. Teaches how to identify the leading terrorist organizations, understand their agendas, and develop the critical thinking skills and methodological techniques to defeat them.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Appraise the causes of and threats from U.S. domestic and international terrorism.
- Analyze the limits of information sharing under the guidelines of both the U.S. PATRIOT Act and the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act.
- Identify the leading terrorist organizations, understand their agendas, and develop the critical thinking skills and methodological techniques to defeat them.
Discover How This Intelligence Studies Degree Can Help You Pursue Your Goals
This intelligence studies degree program provides students with a substantial foundation in security and intelligence principles. Coursework incorporates hands-on, practical training to familiarize learners with appropriate research methods for analyzing intel.
Students also:
- Explore the U.S. Intelligence Community—its mission, priorities, and challenges
- Integrate the structures, functions, and capabilities of the diverse agents and agencies that constitute the intelligence sector, both governmental and private
- Gain working knowledge of the intelligence cycle, including the collection, exploitation, analysis, and dissemination phases
- Contrast and explain all of the diverse areas of intelligence, including human (HUMINT), geospatial (GEOINT), signals (SIGINT), and open-source (OSINT)
- Understand U.S. Intelligence Community activities in terms of federal and international law, ethics, global norms, and democratic oversight
AMU’s intelligence studies program examines the IC’s structure and functions to equip students with career-relevant knowledge. Coursework also engages learners in critical-thinking exercises as they consider how intel analysts make sense of the world around them.
Graduates may have potential career opportunities as:
- Intelligence analysts, who analyze intelligence information to support military operations, national security missions, and defense planning
- All-source intelligence analysts, who integrate data from multiple intelligence disciplines to assess threats and support operational decision-making
- Security or threat analysts, who evaluate risks and emerging threats to personnel, facilities, and operations in service-oriented environments
- Counterintelligence analysts, who help identify and mitigate insider threats and adversary intelligence activities that may compromise security
This online degree program emphasizes career-relevant knowledge and skills. Students demonstrate the ability to write clearly and concisely as they learn how to produce intelligence reports. Coursework also sharpens critical-thinking skills by engaging learners in discussions about how intel analysts make sense of the world around them.
Graduates are prepared to:
- Apply intelligence cycle principles to support operational and strategic missions
- Assess threats, adversary capabilities, and risks in military, defense, and federal contexts
- Use structured analytic techniques to support command and leadership decision-making
- Conduct intelligence research to inform security and operational planning
- Demonstrate ethical judgment while adhering to legal and policy frameworks governing intelligence activities
- Develop concise intelligence products and briefings aligned with chain-of-command requirements
Ready to Get Started?
“ Many of my students are active in the military, aim for careers in government or private-sector intelligence, or are dedicated to serving their communities. I take great pride in contributing to their preparation for the complex challenges they will encounter. AMU fosters a collaborative academic environment where both students and instructors bring their field expertise into the classroom, creating a dynamic, two-way exchange of knowledge. ”
Browse Core Courses from the Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Intelligence Studies
This intelligence studies program focuses on how the IC conducts risk assessments and evaluates threats to protect national security. Major-required courses familiarize learners with the fundamental data collection and analysis techniques that underpin modern intel operations. Students discuss how decision-makers leverage intelligence to navigate complex issues, such as foreign policy and international relations.
AMU’s curriculum also includes degree concentration tracks that examine the nuances of the IC’s duties in greater detail. Through specialized coursework, students may explore technical processes for gathering intelligence or learn how the IC approaches social and political challenges.
Explore Networking Opportunities While You Pursue Your Intelligence Studies Degree Online at AMU
AMU’s diverse online community includes educators who have held successful careers in security and intelligence. Discover opportunities to connect with these faculty members and fellow students beyond the virtual classroom. Explore dozens of online communities, including the University’s OSINT Club, Society for Defense and Strategic Studies, and Order of the Sword and Shield Honor Society.
Learn more about student life and other ways to get involved when you pursue an intelligence studies degree online at American Military University.
Signature Skills: A Learning Revolution
Integrated into our student curriculum, these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence. The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.
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Encouraging students to use current technologies, critically evaluate emerging tools, and responsibly engage with digital and AI systems.
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Strengthening the ability in all students to analyze information objectively, question assumptions, explore alternatives, and develop skills essential for navigating continual change.
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Helping students thrive in dynamic workplaces by reinforcing adaptability, resilience, innovation, and self-awareness.
Welcome to a learning revolution.
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Digital literacy, critical thinking, a growth mindset entwine themselves around the student journey.
They’re in everything we do!
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Meant to inform our approach to you, and your ability to thrive beyond the classroom,
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Learn MoreChoose AMU for an Affordable Bachelor’s Degree in Intelligence Studies
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Earning a degree is a valuable investment, but it needs to fit into your budget. Our tuition estimator can help you estimate your tuition and fees, so you can plan a manageable path to your educational goals. For full details, please refer to the financial aid cost of attendance (COA). This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. You may be eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admissions representative for more details.
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AMU recognizes the value of your service and experience. Our generous transfer credit policy ensures that you get credit for prior college coursework, military education and training, exams, and certifications so you can save time, keep costs low, and stay focused on your education mission.
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In addition to special rates and grants for military servicemembers, veterans, and their families, we also participate in federal financial aid programs for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office team can help ensure you have the support you need.
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AMU students may explore private education loans or scholarship options to supplement their education funding. Before pursuing these options, you should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to learn about your eligibility. We encourage all borrowers to research their choices, review interest rates and repayment terms, and make an informed decision that aligns with their goals.
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As a leader in higher education for the nation’s military and a top choice for veterans using education benefits, AMU proudly accepts Tuition Assistance (TA) and other military education benefits. Our experienced Military Tuition Assistance team can help you understand your eligibility, apply your benefits, and make the most out of your available resources.
Learn MoreApply to the Intelligence Studies Bachelor’s Degree Program Today
AMU has rolling admissions and welcomes new students to this intelligence studies degree program all throughout the year. Online courses begin the first Monday of each month, and there are no set login times. Students may submit weekly assignments and participate in class discussion forums from anywhere with internet access.
Review our admission requirements and submit your application today.
- No Entrance Exams No SAT® or ACT®3 required for undergraduate programs
- No Application Fee For undergraduate courses
- Courses Start Monthly Enroll now, start next month
- All AMU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED). Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
- There is no fee to complete the AMU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.
Learn More About Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Intelligence Studies Online at AMU
A degree in intelligence studies can be worthwhile if you are interested in learning about the techniques the IC employs to provide our nation’s decision-makers with actionable insights. Intelligence studies coursework also helps sharpen research and analytical skills that may apply to both public- and private-sector settings.
Additionally, intelligence studies majors at AMU have the opportunity to learn from scholar-practitioners. Several faculty members have previously held roles in government and private-sector intelligence.
Individuals interested in working for intelligence agencies such as the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) often hold bachelor’s degrees in fields related to national security, international relations, political science, criminal justice, or intelligence studies.
An intelligence studies degree introduces students to topics such as intelligence analysis, intelligence operations, and the structure of the U.S. Intelligence Community. Coursework may also emphasize research methods, analytical reasoning, and communication skills that are useful in intelligence-related roles.
While academic preparation is important, intelligence agencies may also consider factors such as language proficiency, professional experience, and specialized technical skills when evaluating candidates.
Yes, a security clearance is usually required for a role within the Intelligence Community, because IC employees typically work with classified and/or sensitive information. In many cases, government agencies or authorized contractors sponsor qualified candidates for a clearance during the hiring process. Requirements and eligibility standards may vary depending on the agency, position, and level of classified information involved.
Students pursuing intelligence studies degrees do not need security clearances to complete their coursework, however.
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