How to become an intelligence analyst
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- a graduate training scheme
University
Intelligence services recruit graduates from a wide range of subjects. You could gain particularly relevant skills from a degree in a subject that includes data analysis, for example:
- computing
- maths and statistics
- social science
- psychology
- criminology
Being able to speak different languages may also be useful for more specialist roles.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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Apprenticeship
The following higher apprenticeships may be relevant to this role:
- intelligence analyst
- cyber security technologist
You could also gain some of the skills and knowledge required through degree apprenticeships like:
- serious and complex crime investigator
- police constable
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You may be able to start in a related job in the security services then apply to join an intelligence officer training programme. Related jobs include researcher or language specialist.
You could also apply to become a police intelligence officer, if you work for the police. Each police force sets its own application entry requirements.
Other Routes
You could apply for MI5's Intelligence and Data Analyst Development Programme if you have a degree or relevant work experience.
You may also be able to apply through the Civil Service Fast Stream or to the National Crime Agency.
Applications can take up to 9 months. As part of the process, you'll need to be prepared to answer questions about your personal life, relationships, family and finances.
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Career tips
Look out for information on student placements and summer internship schemes. These are a great way to find out more about the role and the recruitment process.
Further information
You can find out more about a career in intelligence from the security agencies: