Intelligence and International Security

Entry requirements

Undergraduate degree with high 2:1 honours (i.e. overall average of at least 67% across all years of study) in history, international relations, political science, economics or other appropriate subject.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Our Intelligence & International Security MA examines the trends that continue to shape intelligence and international security developments in the 21st century. Intelligence, today, is central to our security. It is crucial for managing the key national and international security threats that societies and individuals face, ranging from the threat of domestic and transnational terrorism, to digital espionage and attacks, to pandemics, to renewed inter-state, and great power rivalries. Understanding intelligence is also crucial if we are to understand the balance of power between the citizen and the state, particularly given the potential of digital surveillance.

This course grapples with these issues, and many others. It offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the nature and mechanics of intelligence, from a global perspective. It delves into the practical matters that concern intelligence officers and organisations as they go about their business, and the challenges national governments face in utilising intelligence and in managing their intelligence machineries. Students will also consider the ethical issues that concern all aspects of intelligence operations.