Brunel’s part-time, distance learning course in intelligence and security studies is a solution for busy professionals. Brunel offers the only MA in intelligence to emphasise preparation and higher education for your career in the field. You will study how intelligence works and how to do it, not just what it is, or what it was.
The Distance Learning MA in Intelligence and Security Studies (MAISS) at Brunel University London is a policy-orientated degree, taught to the highest academic standards, which provides a unique opportunity to gain practical experience of the intelligence and global security environment. The programme offers immersive simulations and exercises, certification in industry tools, and practical skills taught by industry experts and research scholars. You will learn about intelligence issues across the private and public sectors through a wide range of modules and have an opportunity to network with others in the industry. Our programme also offers an extensive speaker series, with invited experts from the government and private sector, and access to intelligence seminars in the UK. You will forge important connections with your peers throughout your study and connect with our extensive alumni network.
Practical skills—not just a history degree
Throughout the course, you will learn to use the tools that are sought after by employers, and engage in a series of practical sessions leading up to the Brunel Simulated Intelligence Analysis Exercise (BASE) where you will brief a panel of experts on a real-world subject. 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, now proudly sanctioned by the Russian government.
Online Learning – How it works
To accommodate those with busy schedules, the MAISS Distance Learning programme allows you to learn at your own pace with videos and reading schedules from late September through March or April. In your first year, you will take two compulsory modules. In the second year, you will take one compulsory and one optional module (see below). You will also work closely with a supervisor to submit a dissertation that is due in late summer. Assessment deadlines are provided at the start of the year, and module leaders are available for one-to-one personal appointments, and hold regular office hours.
Each year in spring, you will gather at Brunel’s campus for a “residential week” which will include live lectures, groupwork, and live assessments. BASE is normally held during Residential Week so that distance learners and residential students can mingle and learn from each other.
Any questions, email our dedicated team at: intel-applications@brunel.ac.uk.