U.S. National Security and Intelligence Studies, Certificate

U.S. National Security and Intelligence Studies program description

The undergraduate certificate program in U.S. national security and intelligence studies emphasizes critical thinking; analytical writing; and the interpretation of human intelligence, signals intelligence, geospatial intelligence, and open-source intelligence, commonly termed HUMINT, SIGINT and GEOINT. You explore topics such as cybersecurity threats, critical languages, and cross-cultural analysis, equipping you to address complex global security challenges. You develop the ability to create an intelligence collection plan to collect key forms of intelligence in support of national security objectives. You demonstrate your mastery of core intelligence concepts through the stages of the intelligence process: planning and direction, collection, processing, analysis and production, and dissemination with both oral and technical reports.

You learn to synthesize knowledge about the U.S. intelligence community and national security objectives by analyzing the missions, roles and structures of the 18 organizations within the U.S. intelligence community. You develop a comprehensive understanding of the national security enterprise through the application of research, data analysis and structured analytical techniques used in the production of finished intelligence products. You develop strong analytical writing and oral communication skills, essential for conveying complex information effectively to diverse audiences.

This interdisciplinary program integrates high-impact experiential learning with classroom instruction and internship opportunities that connect you to professionals across the federal government, private sector and nonprofit organizations. With strong local engagement in the Phoenix area; a network presence in Washington, D.C.; and a global outlook; the program prepares you to thrive in the dynamic and evolving field of intelligence and national security.

GI Bill® benefits
This new program is not yet approved for use with GI Bill® benefits.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/.

Why earn a national security and intelligence studies undergraduate certificate at ASU?

The ASU Center for Intelligence and National Security connects you with the resources, mentorship and professional relationships you need to pursue a role in the intelligence community after you graduate. This support turns your coursework into a clear pathway toward national security and intelligence careers.

Faculty at the center lead active research in intelligence, national security and related fields, so you learn from people engaged in current questions facing the sector. That expertise shapes a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum built around analytical skills, ethical values and holistic leadership.

Housed within the Future Security Initiative, the center also offers accelerated pathways that link undergraduate and graduate study in areas such as intelligence, cybersecurity and competitive statecraft. You can move efficiently toward advanced work in the mission areas that interest you most.

Additional details

You can extend your learning beyond the classroom through several opportunities. As an ASU Intelligence Community Fellow, you take part in small-group sessions with intelligence and national security professionals, gaining insight into the security clearance process and expert guidance on resumes, applications and interviews for competitive internships and positions.

The National Security and Intelligence Club builds community among students interested in intelligence, national security and defense. It connects you with professionals and alumni across government, defense and the private sector and hosts workshops, simulations, speaker events and career preparation.

You can also compete on the National Security Strategy Competition Team. Modeled after the Army War College strategic competition, it challenges students to debate international security topics and present policy recommendations. An ASU team of six recently placed second out of 17 teams at a competition hosted by the University of South Florida.