Graduate Degree

Online Master of Arts in Intelligence Studies (MA)

The intelligence studies online master’s degree program at American Military University (AMU) examines how to identify and neutralize threats to national security. AMU’s graduate study program gives students an advanced understanding of strategic intelligence collection, analysis, and operations.

Next Start: Feb 2, 2026
Register By: Jan 30, 2026
intelligence professionals at computer
Program Overview
About the Master’s in Intelligence Studies Degree at AMU

The intelligence studies master’s degree program at American Military University (AMU) examines how to identify and neutralize threats to national security. Coursework provides an advanced understanding of strategic intelligence collection, analysis, and operations. 

This master’s degree equips students with a solid foundation of analytical skills. Class discussions zero in on the strategies the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC) employs to protect our nation. 

Courses are led by faculty members who include professionals with deep roots in the Intelligence Community. These educators share extensive knowledge about various analytical techniques for gathering intel.

The program covers:

  • Counterintelligence
  • International relations
  • Homeland security
  • Terrorism and counterterrorism
  • Geospatial intelligence
  • Signals intelligence
  • Human intelligence
  • Open-source intelligence

In addition, core courses explore how intelligence operations support homeland security efforts and the criminal justice system. The program delves into the tactics the IC uses to combat terrorism, espionage, and drug cartels. Students also consider the role of intelligence analysis in the private sector.

The curriculum exercises critical-thinking skills as learners contemplate the ethical challenges that accompany intel operations. Coursework helps lay the groundwork for further study and prepares graduate students for AMU’s Doctor of Strategic Intelligence (DSI) program.

Tuition
$470 | $250 1
$399.502
Curriculum
9 Concentrations
Credits
Transfer up to 15 Credits 3
Affordability
72% of students have graduated with no APUS-incurred student loan debt 4

Master’s in Intelligence Studies Program Concentrations 

Through degree concentration tracks, learners can further focus their studies. Required courses in each track offer an in-depth exploration of intelligence practices that support national security agencies, law enforcement organizations, and businesses in making critical decisions.

Select a concentration to learn more.

Select From

About the Concentration

This general concentration allows you to select from all the intelligence courses within this program, enabling you to create your own focused area of study.

Program Objectives

This general concentration allows you to select from all the intelligence courses within this program, enabling you to create your own focused area of study.

About the Concentration

Examines the historical roots of organized crime and its current role within the American criminal justice system. Provides an overview on U.S. counter-drug efforts and basic information on illicit drugs, with a focus on world regions where drugs are typically manufactured and transported. Teaches counterintelligence principles and criminal intelligence analysis for predicting trends, weaknesses, capabilities, intentions, changes, and warnings needed to dismantle criminal organizations.

Program Objectives

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Apply intelligence processes and procedures in the criminal justice community.

About the Concentration

Addresses the cyber discipline from a multidisciplinary perspective. Topics include current and historical structure, functions, and capabilities of private and governmental agencies comprising the cyber community; laws related to intellectual property, civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, and privacy; cybercrime investigation and prevention; and the ethical, economic, and societal issues that face today’s information-entrenched society.

Program Objectives

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Analyze the cyber discipline from a multidisciplinary perspective.

About the Concentration

Traces intelligence and homeland security processes in defending the U.S., such as the efforts to prevent, prepare, and respond to the use of weapons of mass destruction. Looks at: terrorist groups from different political psychological perspectives; threats to U.S. borders, such as illegal immigration, narcotics smuggling, and money laundering; and risk management in loss prevention.

Program Objectives

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Apply intelligence processes and procedures in the defense of the United States.

About the Concentration

Studies advanced intelligence analysis methods in composing professional and academic analyses on issues critical to intelligence community consumers. Topics include: an analysis of political leaders; an overview of transnational crime and narcotics and the effects on the political, social, and economic development of countries around the world; and the challenges and benefits of cyber intelligence operations.

Program Objectives

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Apply advanced intelligence analysis methods in composing professional and academic analyses on issues critical to intelligence community consumers.

About the Concentration

Studies advanced intelligence data collection methods in supporting analyses on issues critical to intelligence community consumers. Analyzes the phases, processes, and challenges of cybercrime investigations, as well as U.S. and foreign aspects of counterintelligence and the technical, legal, and social issues relating to the search and seizure of digital evidence and computer forensics.

Program Objectives

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Apply advanced intelligence data collection methods in supporting analyses on issues critical to intelligence community consumers.

About the Concentration

Lays the groundwork to understanding management principles in the intelligence community environment. Topics include: ethical dilemmas and conflicts in organizational settings; strategic planning techniques used by industrial companies; the evolution and philosophical foundation of the human resource field; methods of managing an organization; and human behavior principles in individual, group, team, and organizational settings.

Program Objectives

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Apply management principles in the intelligence community environment.

About the Concentration

Explores intelligence management skills required for leadership within the intelligence community. Examines covert action in the context of national security, including the political and executive aspects of the presidential powers involved. Addresses core elements of information operations, including the disciplines of electronic warfare (EW), computer network operations (CNO), psychological operations (PSYOP), and operations security (OPSEC).

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.

About the Concentration

Studies the causes and threats of domestic and international terrorism, including the threat of weapons of mass destruction as a unique phenomenon within the homeland security landscape. Also includes terrorist and extremist groups within the U.S., policies for combating terrorism and terrorist tactics worldwide, and various counterterrorism intelligence methodologies and analytic tools.

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.

View Course Requirements

Careers & Outcomes

Discover How This Intelligence Studies Degree Can Help You Pursue Your Goals

AMU’s online courses provide students with an advanced understanding of the intelligence field. The curriculum also emphasizes practical applications for the knowledge and skills learners develop. Students discuss how intelligence collection and intelligence analysis methods apply to real-world settings throughout both the public and private sectors. 
What You Will Learn in AMU’s Intelligence Studies Program

Students gain a comprehensive understanding of intelligence functions in courses led by retired intelligence officers and military veterans. 

In this online program, you will:

  1. Examine the evolution, structures, functions, capabilities, and activities of the U.S. Intelligence Community
  2. Analyze the intelligence cycle, including the planning, data collection and exploitation, intelligence analysis, production, and dissemination phases
  3. Investigate the fundamental capabilities, limitations, and means of tasking human, geographic/imagery, signals, measurement, and technical and open intelligence data sources
  4. Assess and predict traditional and nontraditional threats to national and international security

View Program Outcome Assessment Results

Explore Career Paths You Can Pursue with an Intelligence Studies Degree

Security and intelligence analysts must be critical thinkers who can formulate hypotheses, conduct hands-on research, and distill complex data into actionable insights. AMU’s online program is designed to equip learners with practical skills as they consider these objectives. Coursework challenges students to discern between assumptions, biases, and indisputable facts.

Graduates of the program may consider potential career opportunities as:

  • Military intelligence officers, who lead intelligence efforts to support defense operations
  • Counterintelligence specialists, who detect and help thwart acts of espionage and other insider threats
  • Geospatial intelligence analysts, who review imagery and geospatial data to help advance military missions
  • Cyber intelligence analysts, who safeguard information technology by identifying and mitigating security threats 
  • Homeland security/emergency management specialists, who plan and coordinate responses to national security incidents
  • Intelligence operational planners, who apply intelligence to military missions and operations 
AMU’s Intelligence Studies Program Equips You with Real-World Skills

The Master of Arts in Intelligence Studies provides students with a solid foundation in the analytical techniques professionals use to produce actionable intelligence insights. 

Students in this online program learn how to: 

  • Demonstrate effective written, oral, and digital communication in intelligence contexts
  • Analyze global security, political, economic, and cultural issues affecting intelligence operations
  • Apply ethical reasoning and legal frameworks to intelligence collection and dissemination
  • Evaluate organizational behavior and leadership practices within intelligence agencies and related organizations
  • Conduct research using open-source intelligence (OSINT) and analytic tools 

Take The First Step

Complete our short online application to start the admission process. You’ll be asked to choose an academic program when you complete the form, but you can change this at any time. There is no fee to apply and the process takes just a few minutes. Start Your Application Today
When you look at the threats facing our national security, it requires a huge swath of responsibilities to assess them. We need people in the profession with a lot of different talents. One of the strengths of the security and intelligence programs at American Military University is the diversity of highly credentialed faculty.
David Kritz

Assistant Department Chair, Professor, Intelligence Studies

Courses

Browse Required Courses for AMU’s Intelligence Studies Program

This master’s degree expands on the topics students explore through our bachelor’s program, while laying the groundwork for doctoral-level studies. Required courses engage students in critical thinking to help strengthen their problem-solving abilities and build leadership skills. Students become familiar with national intelligence objectives, such as combatting terrorism and identifying national security threats. The program also examines how private organizations engage in intelligence operations.
All course requirements for Space Studies
Courses Start Monthly
Next Courses Start:
Feb 2, 2026
Register By:
Jan 30, 2026
Pursue Real-World Experience Through Internships
Intelligence studies students have the option to complete internships for academic credit. Students arrange their own internships under the guidance of faculty members. They report to their respective placements in person and complete corresponding coursework online. Previous internships have included roles within local law enforcement organizations and in the private sector.
Student Experience

Expand Your Network While Pursuing This Master’s in Intelligence Studies 

AMU offers intelligence studies students the opportunity to network and connect with others outside the classroom. Students have the opportunity to join student organizations such as: 

Learn more about virtual communities and other ways to get involved when you pursue an online master’s degree at American Military University.

Take a Sneak Peek at Our Virtual Classrooms
The MyClassroom platform allows learners to conveniently access all of their school-related assignments, online classes, discussion forums, and course materials with just a few keystrokes.

MyClassroom Streamlines The Online Learning Experience.

MyClassroom
View transcript (Scroll to see full transcript)
[Opening frame: MyClassroom logo]
Welcome to your Online Learning Environment.

[Cut to eCampus homepage screen]
Your eCampus homepage is the hub where you can view important information and access MyClassroom — an intuitive course platform designed for the modern learner.

[View of MyClassroom on laptop, tablet, and phone]
You have the flexibility to access your classes on any device — anytime, anywhere.

[Transition to Course Homepage view]
The Course Homepage features a dynamic layout with integrated tools, seamless navigation, and helpful resources to support your educational goals.

[Highlight Microsoft 365 login screen]
You’ll also find integrated access to Microsoft Office 365, allowing you to log directly into your account and use multiple Microsoft applications.

[Show Navigation Bar close-up]
Everything you need is right on the Navigation Bar, giving you quick access to every part of your online class — including:

[Highlight Course Tools navigation]
Course Tools – easily access helpful tools for success.

[Highlight Discussion Thread]
Discussion Threads – connect in meaningful conversations with peers and faculty, and share insights on what you’re learning.

[Cut to Library interface]
You’ll also have access to the Richard G. Trefry Library, which provides students, faculty, and staff with thousands of licensed materials to support your success.

[Closing frame: MyClassroom URL and logo]
Myclassroom.apus.edu.

AMU is here to support your student journey

Your mission matters, but so does your well-being. That's why we provide supportive resources to help you stay ready for what’s next.

  • Career Coaching
  • 24/7 Mental Health Support
  • Admissions & Advising Support
  • Student Life 
Learn more about How We Support You

Career Coaching

Whether you’re transitioning from military to civilian life or pursuing advancement within your branch of service, AMU’s Career Services are here to help. Our coach-guided experiences empower you to translate your military skills into new opportunities, develop your professional strengths, and chart a course to your next mission.

Learn More

24/7 Mental Health Support

Resilience is critical to mission success, and that starts with your mental health. AMU offers confidential, flexible, 24/7 access to support resources to help you manage stress, find balance, and stay mission-ready.

Learn More

Admissions & Advising Support

We understand the unique needs of military students. That’s why our admissions and advising teams provide personalized guidance from day one, helping you navigate enrollment, maximize your benefits, and plan your academic journey around your service commitments. We’re here to help you succeed wherever duty calls. 

Learn More

Student Life

At AMU, you’ll be part of a strong, service-minded community that understands your goals and values. Through student organizations like the Student Veterans of America (SVA) and access to the university directory through ecampus, you’ll connect with peers and mentors who can help you build your professional network and lifelong camaraderie.

Learn More
Tuition & Costs

AMU’s Online Degree Program Provides Affordable Intelligence Education

As an institution with roots in the military, AMU is committed to quality, accessible intelligence education. University grants and low-cost tuition rates help make studying at affordable for master’s-level students. Generous transfer credit opportunities also help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for our graduate students. 

  • $0 Application Fee
  • $0 Textbooks & Ebooks
  • $0 Transfer Credit Evaluation
Estimate Your Tuition Costs:

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 eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admission representative for more details.

Standard Rate for master's degree and graduate certificate programs.
$470 Master's Degree Level Cost Per Credit
36 Credits
+$1,020 Technology Fee5
+$350 Graduation Fee
0 15
Total Estimated Tuition & Fees
The Preferred Military Rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and their families.8
$250 Master's Degree Level Cost Per Credit
36 Credits
+$1,020 Technology Fee5
+$350 Graduation Fee
0 15
Total Estimated Tuition & Fees
The Veteran Grant is available to honorably discharged veterans from all military branches, and their families.9
$399.50 Master's Degree Level Cost Per Credit
36 Credits
+$1,020 Technology Fee5
+$350 Graduation Fee
0 15
Total Estimated Tuition & Fees
Prospective and current students are eligible for the Opportunity Grant of 10% off undergraduate or master's-level tuition.7
$423 Master's Degree Level Cost Per Credit
36 Credits
+$1,020 Technology Fee5
+$350 Graduation Fee
0 15
Total Estimated Tuition & Fees

AMU Removes Barriers

Quality Education Shouldn't Break the Bank

We offer special rates and grants for eligible students and limit fees to help keep the cost of higher education within reach. Find out how you can save on tuition expenses with our:

  • Transfer Credits
  • Financial Aid
  • Private Loans & Scholarships
  • Military & Veteran Benefits
Learn More About Ways to Save at AMU

Transfer Credits

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.

Learn More

Financial Aid

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.

Learn More

Private Loans & Scholarships 

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. 

Learn More

Military & Veteran Benefits 

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 More
Admissions

Apply to the Intelligence Studies Graduate Program

Intelligence studies students participate in online class discussions, submit weekly assignments, and access course materials from anywhere with an internet connection. Courses begin monthly and run for 8 to 16 weeks. There are no set login times. Applying is easy, and there’s no cost to do so. 
Ready to get started? Submit your application today. 
  • No Entrance Exams No GRE or GMAT required for master’s programs
  • No Application Fee For undergraduate & master’s-level courses
  • Courses Start Monthly Enroll now, start next month
  • All AMU master's degree/graduate certificate programs require a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an institution whose accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA®). Please read all graduate 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.

CHEA® is a registered trademark of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. 

Prepare for Further Study at AMU
This Master of Arts in Intelligence Studies lays the groundwork for AMU’s Doctor of Strategic Intelligence (DSI) program. Comprised of 58 credits and a dissertation, the DSI engages learners in original academic research. Students deepen their understanding of core concepts that include global and domestic intel operations, leadership principles, and the latest advancements in cyber intelligence. Learn more about the online DSI program at AMU.
Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More About Pursuing a Master of Arts in Intelligence Studies

Find out more about the intelligence field and learn how this master’s degree program equips students with real-world skills. Get answers to common questions from degree-seekers interested in security and intelligence.

No. You may pursue this Master of Arts in Intelligence Studies even if you studied a different discipline as an undergrad. 

If you have not yet completed a baccalaureate degree, however, AMU’s Bachelor of Arts in Intelligence Studies serves as a stepping stone to this master’s program. The bachelor’s degree introduces students to the core concepts that define the intelligence field. Coursework encourages critical thinking and develops analytical skills as students consider how analysts leverage intelligence networks to conduct threat assessments. The bachelor’s degree program also covers basic data collection methods and fundamental intelligence analysis strategies.

A master’s degree in intelligence studies provides an in-depth understanding of intelligence analysis strategies. In addition, master’s-level programs explore the role of intel within military operations, our criminal justice system, and private organizations. Students develop leadership qualities and hone their problem-solving skills as they consider the duties and responsibilities of intelligence officers.

Earning an MA demonstrates your commitment to the discipline and to advancing your analytical skills. Master’s-level students deepen their understanding of the IC’s role in protecting national security and supporting our nation’s leaders. 

AMU’s MA program also provides learners with the opportunity to gain real-world experience in the field by interning for academic credit.

The best degree to pursue depends on your goals and interests. A bachelor’s degree provides a comprehensive introduction to the discipline. Coursework at the bachelor’s level tends to focus on building foundational research and analytical skills. 

Master’s degree programs allow students to delve deeper into topics such as national security, criminal intelligence, and intel collection and analysis. Master’s-level coursework emphasizes communication skills, analytical writing, and critical thinking.

Finally, doctoral degree programs combine classroom learning with hands-on research opportunities surrounding highly complex security and intelligence issues. Students conduct original studies and author dissertations detailing their findings. 

Consider how program requirements compare to your academic interests. For example, a graduate certificate program offers a glimpse into the discipline, whereas a graduate degree program provides a more well-rounded learning experience. 

AMU’s intelligence studies graduate certificate consists of just 18 credit hours, while the master’s degree in the same discipline requires 36 credits. In addition to core requirements and electives, degree-seekers complete specialized coursework in their chosen concentration areas. The MA program also includes a capstone project, which learners complete to showcase their advanced knowledge and skills.

Intelligence studies faculty have held leadership roles at various organizations, including: 

  • U.S. Army Open Source Intelligence Office
  • U.S. Army National Guard
  • Department of Homeland Security/Transportation Security Administration
  • Defense Intelligence Agency
  • Intelligence and Security Command
  • Office of the Director of National Intelligence

Most federal agencies, especially those agencies involved with national security, require employees to hold security clearances, since their work involves sensitive information. Still, security clearance requirements vary from one position to another. 

For example, corporate roles rarely require security clearances. Instead, organizations may perform extensive background checks on applicants.

Typically, you will undergo a security clearance process once you have a conditional offer of a job. Receiving clearance involves demonstrating your:

  • Loyalty to the nation
  • Trustworthiness
  • Reliability
  • Discretion

Learn more about the security clearance process

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Disclosures

Maryland Residents learn more about costs, completion rates, median debt, and more.

The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.

Cost Per Credit Hour

The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and  master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.

See all military student benefits.

Cost of Attendance
Learn more about AMU’s cost components and full cost of attendance
Next Steps
Courses Start Monthly

Nex Courses Start: Feb 2, 2026

Register by: Jan 30, 2026

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  1. with Preferred Military Rate

  2. with Veteran Grant or Opportunity Grant

  3. The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information. 

  4. Alumni Graduated with No APUS-incurred Student Loan Debt As of December 31, 2021.

    Includes alumni who graduated with an associate, bachelor's, or master's degree from APUS. Student loan debt is defined as student loans and private education loans used for tuition, fees, living expenses, and book costs associated with courses taken at APUS. Many APUS students receive military tuition assistance and veterans education benefits, which are not student loan debt.

  5. $85 Technology fee per course

  6. All veterans and family members (parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents) are eligible to receive a 10% Veteran Grant on standard undergraduate tuition and 15% for master’s-level tuition. Tuition grants cannot be combined with any other special rates, promotions, or grants and only one can be applied per course.

  7. Prospective and current APUS students are eligible for the APUS Opportunity Grant of 10% off undergraduate or master’s-level tuition. This grant, which is applied automatically, supersedes all other university grants and special rates, and cannot be combined with any other special promotions. Only one can be applied per course.

  8. All U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, (parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents) are eligible for the Preferred Military Rate of $250/credit for undergraduate and master’s-level courses. The Preferred Military Rate, which is applied automatically, supersedes all other university grants and special rates, and cannot be combined with any other special promotions. Please note that a technology fee applies to master’s-level courses.