Master's in Applied Intelligence

NA Online Masters Program

Georgetown University

Program Overview

Georgetown University's Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Applied Intelligence, offered through the School of Continuing Studies, prepares students to analyse complex issues, assess risks and provide intelligence that supports important decisions in government and business. The programme combines practical intelligence methods, critical thinking, technology and ethical decision-making, making it suitable for professionals interested in homeland security, cybersecurity, law enforcement or competitive business intelligence.

Curriculum Structure

The programme requires 33 credits across 11 courses, including two core courses, five foundation courses and four electives. Students can study online, on campus in Washington, D.C., or through a combination of both, with full-time and part-time options available.

Foundation Courses: Students develop a broad understanding of intelligence work through courses such as Introduction to Applied Intelligence, Psychology of Applied Intelligence, Applied Intelligence Communications, Understanding Intelligence Collection and Advanced Analytical Techniques. These subjects introduce intelligence frameworks, critical thinking, information gathering, analytical methods and the preparation of clear intelligence reports.

Core Courses: Students complete Ethics and Capstone as the two required core courses. Ethics explores professional responsibilities, privacy, confidentiality and responsible decision-making, while the Capstone allows students to bring together their analytical knowledge and apply it to a substantial intelligence project.

Elective Courses: Students select four electives to develop expertise in their preferred area. The programme offers four focus areas: Homeland Security Intelligence, Cyber Intelligence, Law Enforcement Intelligence and Business Intelligence. Depending on their choices, students can explore subjects such as cyber threat analysis, counterterrorism, competitive intelligence, intelligence collection and strategic risk assessment.

Focus Areas

Applied Intelligence, Homeland Security Intelligence, Cyber Intelligence, Law Enforcement Intelligence, Competitive Business Intelligence, Intelligence Analysis, Risk Assessment, Intelligence Collection, Open-Source Intelligence, Counterintelligence, Cyber Threat Analysis, National Security, Counterterrorism, Strategic Analysis, Critical Thinking and Intelligence Communications.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates learn to collect, evaluate and interpret information from different sources, apply intelligence frameworks and analytical techniques, identify emerging threats and assess complex situations. They also develop the ability to prepare professional intelligence reports, communicate findings to decision-makers, consider global perspectives and apply ethical principles when handling sensitive information.

Professional Alignment

STEM-designated programme: Eligible international students may qualify for an initial 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT), followed by a 24-month STEM OPT extension, subject to US immigration requirements.
Professional accreditation: Georgetown University is institutionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. However, the university does not identify a separate professional accreditation specifically for this degree.
Industry-focused learning: Courses are taught by experienced practitioners and scholars, giving students exposure to intelligence practices used in government, law enforcement, cybersecurity and business.
Flexible study options: Students can complete the programme online, on campus or through a combination of both, with full-time and part-time enrolment options.

Reputation and Employability

Career opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Intelligence Analyst, Cyber Threat Analyst, National Security Analyst, Homeland Security Analyst, Law Enforcement Intelligence Analyst, Counterintelligence Analyst, Risk Analyst, Competitive Intelligence Analyst, Strategic Intelligence Analyst and Intelligence Research Specialist.
Potential employers: Career opportunities may be available with government agencies, law enforcement organisations, national security institutions, intelligence and security consultancies, financial institutions and private-sector organisations.
Specialisation opportunities: The programme's four focus areas allow students to develop knowledge suited to different intelligence-related career paths.
Employment statistics: Georgetown does not publish a specific employment rate or average salary for graduates of this programme on its official programme page.

Programme classification: This is a standalone Master of Professional Studies (MPS) degree in Applied Intelligence, not an MBA or a concentration within another master's degree. Georgetown also offers a Graduate Certificate in Competitive Business Intelligence as a separate qualification.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Georgetown University, the Master of Professional Studies in Applied Intelligence is designed to equip students with practical skills that are essential in today’s data-driven world. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in real-world projects, collaborate with industry professionals, and utilize cutting-edge tools and technologies. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can immerse themselves in hands-on experiences that enhance their understanding of applied intelligence.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

- Collaborative Projects: Engage in team-based projects that simulate real-world challenges, fostering collaboration and problem-solving skills.
- Internships: Gain valuable industry experience through internships with leading organizations, providing a platform to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.
- Access to Advanced Software: Utilize industry-standard software tools such as Python, R, and Tableau for data analysis and visualization, enhancing technical proficiency.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to tech companies and intelligence agencies, offering insights into the practical applications of applied intelligence.
- Research Laboratories: Work in dedicated research labs equipped with the latest technology, allowing for hands-on experimentation and innovation.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from access to Georgetown’s extensive library system, which includes a wealth of resources on data science, analytics, and intelligence studies.
- Institute for Technology and Society: Collaborate with the Institute for Technology and Society, which focuses on the intersection of technology and social impact, providing a unique perspective on applied intelligence.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also prepare you for a successful career in the field of applied intelligence.

Consider applying to the Master of Professional Studies in Applied Intelligence and take the next step toward a rewarding career!

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Professional Studies in Applied Intelligence at Georgetown University equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in a rapidly evolving field. Alumni of this program often find themselves in high-demand roles such as Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Consultant, and Cybersecurity Analyst. With a strong foundation in applied intelligence, graduates are well-prepared to tackle complex challenges in various industries.

Here’s how Georgetown supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events tailored to the tech and intelligence sectors.
- Employment Statistics: Georgetown boasts an impressive employment rate, with over 90% of graduates securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates in this field is around $85,000, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Georgetown has established partnerships with leading organizations such as the CIA, NSA, and various tech firms, providing students with unique internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance their learning experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring that your degree holds value and recognition in the job market for years to come.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to work for top companies in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, demonstrating the versatility and applicability of the skills gained in this program.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Professional Studies in Applied Intelligence, you may choose to further your education by pursuing a Ph.D. in a related field, such as Information Technology or Data Science. This could open doors to academic positions or advanced research roles, allowing you to contribute to the field at a higher level. Additionally, you might consider obtaining professional certifications in areas like data analytics or cybersecurity to enhance your expertise and marketability.

Georgetown University provides a robust foundation for your career in applied intelligence, and I encourage you to take the next step in your academic journey by applying to this transformative program!