Intelligence and Security Studies MA

Unlock the World of Intelligence with Brunel's Unique MA Programme

Dive into the only MA in Intelligence that's designed not just to teach you about intelligence, but to prepare you for an impactful career in the field. At Brunel, our MA in Intelligence and Security Studies (MAISS) stands apart by offering a practical course grounded in both social science and historical methods.

Why Choose MAISS?

• Flexible study modes: our course is offered in either “on-campus” and “distance learning” modes. The on-campus mode can be taken full or part-time. The distance learning mode is part-time, and includes one “residential week” each spring where the cohort will come to campus to complete their exercises and assessments together. These options allow you to study according to your requirements.

• Interdisciplinary Learning: Our programme uniquely blends social science, policy, and history to provide a rounded perspective on intelligence.

• Practical, Hands-On Training: Engage in immersive simulations, receive certification in industry tools, and participate in the Brunel Analytic Simulated Exercise (BASE) which provides real-world briefing experience before a panel of experts.

• Expert-Led Teaching: Learn from a dynamic mix of seasoned practitioners and renowned academics, ensuring your education is grounded in both theory and real-world application.

• Exclusive, Cohesive Curriculum: Experience a "garden-wall" designed programme where every module is crafted to build on each other. Offering a unique, cohesive learning journey, with specialist electives, focused on in-depth study.

What Sets Us Apart?

Our course is not just a history or politics degree. It's a policy-oriented programme that arms you with the practical skills sought by employers. Your learning and assessment are designed to provide you the tools and experiences you need to excel in the intelligence community, whether you’re on campus or distance learning.

You will also be trained in Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) collection methods, for which you will receive a separate certificate. This is currently provided by Prevail Partners.

Connect and Network

Benefit from our extensive speaker series, bringing experts from government and the private sector right to your classroom. MAISS also boasts a vibrant community of peers and an expansive alumni network to build lasting professional connections.

Our alumni are employed in the public sector, and private firms such as Securitas, Merck, Formula One, Pinkertons, Raytheon, and Lockheed Martin. Our graduates have also founded and joined smaller start-up intelligence companies such as Grey Dynamics and b4 Secure.

2.6/4, 3.2/5 or 65%

• IELTS: 6.5 (min 6 in all areas)
• Pearson: 59 (59 in all subscores)
• BrunELT: 63% (min 58% in all areas)
• TOEFL: 90 (min 20 in all)

You can find out more about the qualifications we accept on our English Language Requirements page.

Should you wish to take a pre-sessional English course to improve your English prior to starting your degree course, you must sit the test at an approved SELT provider for the same reason. We offer our own BrunELT English test and have pre-sessional English language courses for students who do not meet requirements or who wish to improve their English. You can find out more information on English courses and test options through our Brunel Language Centre.

Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants. This information is for guidance only and each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Entry requirements are subject to review, and may change.

Careers and your future