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Analyst Concentration

Analyst Concentration

Uncover truths and make impactful decisions through the analyst concentration housed in our national security and intelligence analysis major. Whether you aim to pursue a career in national security, the military, corporate security, or homeland security, this program offers the perfect blend of theoretical foundations and practical experience. 

Designed for aspiring analysts, our unique concentration combines the strong academic foundation you need with the real-world applications you want, all preparing you to be an influential leader in this growing field. Our expert faculty will provide the classroom knowledge and industry connections you need to gain experience through internships and fieldwork.

 

Analyst Careers

  • Intelligence Analyst: Gather, evaluate, and interpret intelligence from various sources to identify potential threats and provide actionable insights.
  • Counterterrorism Analyst: Focus on identifying and mitigating threats posed by terrorist groups. Analyze patterns, strategies, and networks to prevent attacks.
  • Cyber Intelligence Analyst: Analyze cyber threats and vulnerabilities to protect national security interests. Monitor cyber activities and provide insights on cyber warfare.
  • Geospatial Intelligence Analyst (GEOINT): Use geographic information systems (GIS) and satellite imagery to analyze physical locations and movements. Support military operations and strategic planning.
  • Foreign Affairs Analyst: Analyze foreign political, military, and economic developments to advise on international relations and policy decisions.
  • Signals Intelligence Analyst (SIGINT): Intercept and analyze electronic signals to gather intelligence on foreign communications and activities.
  • Operations Research Analyst: Use mathematical and statistical methods to analyze and solve complex problems in national security. Optimize operations and resource allocation.
  • Defense Policy Analyst: Develop and evaluate defense policies and strategies. Provide recommendations to improve national security and defense capabilities.
      

About Our Analyst Concentration

This specialized program focuses on the foundations of U.S. national security and intelligence analysis, allowing you to learn the history, purpose, and methodologies of the field. Your dedication will ensure you are ready to master the national security policy process and the complete Intelligence Cycle from planning to dissemination. 

Through our applied approach, you will sharpen your critical thinking skills and employ techniques used by professionals in the field today. By becoming proficient in threat assessment and risk management, you can expect to craft clear intelligence reports to brief to stakeholders at all levels. 

  • Curriculum

     

    NSIA Major  

    Required Courses

    POL 105S                  US Politics in Crisis: American Government, Politics, and Society                                                                       

    POL 120S                  Going Global: An Introduction to World Politics

    or             

    POL 180                    Exploring the World: An Introduction to Geography

    POL 190                    Careers in Politics and International Affairs

    SOC 364                    Social Science Research Methods I

    SOC 365                    Social Science Research Methods II

    CSC 112                    Introduction to Computer Science

     

    Analyst Concentration:

    Core Courses

    POL 225                    International Relations 

    POL 270V                  US Foreign Policy: Past, Present and Future

    POL 275                    Intelligence Analysis

    POL 470                    Senior Project in National Security

    Distribution Courses: Choose any two of the following thematic courses:

    ECN 380                  Comparative Economic Systems

    POL 321                   Terrorism

    POL 322                   Cyberwar and Cybersecurity

    REL 360G                 Religious Conflict and Peace-Building

    Choose two Area-Studies Courses

    HST/POL 344           Africa’s Promise: Challenges & Opportunities of the ‘Forgotten Continent’

    HST/POL 345G         Contemporary Europe

    HST/POL 346G         The Rise of Asia

    HST/POL 347G         Russia and the former Soviet Union

    HST/POL 348           Problems of Developing Nations

    HST/POL 349G         The Middle East: Challenges & Opportunities of a Volatile Region

    ECN 390                  Economies of the Asian Pacific Rim