An intelligence analyst collects, interprets, and evaluates information to help organisations understand threats and make informed decisions. In the UK, intelligence analysts often work for government agencies like MI5, MI6, and GCHQ, as well as the police and private security firms. Their work involves gathering data from a variety of sources such as surveillance, databases, and open source intelligence, and then transforming this data into useful reports and briefings. Analysts may study criminal activities, terrorism, cyber threats, or political risks, using both analytical software and traditional research skills. The role requires strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and a high level of discretion, as much of the work is classified or sensitive.
The average salary for an intelligence analyst in the UK ranges from £25,000 to £45,000 per year, with experienced analysts in senior roles earning up to £60,000 or more.
There are typically around 2,000 to 3,000 intelligence analyst positions advertised each year across the UK, spanning government, police, and private sectors.
Major employers include MI5, MI6, GCHQ, law enforcement agencies, and private security companies.
Focuses on identifying and assessing cyber threats, monitoring online activities, and providing recommendations to protect organisations from cyber attacks.
Specialises in analysing information related to terrorist threats and activities, supporting law enforcement and security agencies to prevent attacks.
Works with police and law enforcement to gather and interpret data about criminal activities, helping to solve crimes and identify patterns.
Work towards strong GCSEs, especially in English, Maths, and subjects such as History, Geography, or IT. For A Levels, consider subjects like Politics, Languages, Maths, or Computer Science.
Many intelligence agencies expect candidates to have good GCSE results, including passes in English and Maths. At A Level, subjects that develop analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills are valued. Language skills are particularly prized, so taking a foreign language at A Level can be beneficial.
Pursue a university degree in a relevant subject such as Criminology, International Relations, Computer Science, or Languages.
While not always essential, a degree is highly desirable for intelligence analyst roles, especially with organisations like MI5, MI6, or GCHQ. Degrees that involve research, analysis, and report writing will help develop the skills needed for the job.
Practise analysing data and using IT tools. Engage in activities that require problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail.
You can develop these skills through coursework, work experience, or volunteering. Learning to use spreadsheets, databases, and mapping software is highly valued. Participation in debate clubs, research projects, or coding clubs can also help.
Apply for internships, work placements, or voluntary roles in security, law enforcement, or research organisations.
Relevant work experience could include administrative roles in police forces, local government, or research-focused organisations. Summer internship schemes are sometimes offered by intelligence agencies or related bodies, which provide valuable insight into the sector.
Identify relevant employers such as MI5, MI6, GCHQ, police forces, or defence companies and apply for intelligence analyst positions.
Each employer has its own recruitment process, which may include online applications, assessment centres, interviews, and security vetting. Prepare a strong CV and cover letter highlighting your analytical skills, relevant qualifications, and experience.
Successfully pass the necessary security vetting required for intelligence work.
All roles in intelligence analysis require background checks and security clearance. This process involves providing detailed information about your personal life, employment history, and sometimes interviews with referees. Being honest and thorough in your responses is essential.
Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.
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Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 100 positions available )
Being a Warfare Specialist (Submariner), means working with some of the most advanced computer systems available to identify, track and, if required, destroy potential threats. This will involve the covert monitoring of all other vessels (surface and sub-surface, friend or foe) within range of the advanced array of different sensors onboard.
Closing date: in 7 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 28 positions available )
We need to make the seas safe. For our warships, for civilian ships, for everyone. And that’s where you come in. You’ll be at the heart of these missions whether they’re in a Mediterranean port, or on operations in the Persian Gulf. As a Mine Warfare Specialist you’ll lead the way for our fleet, clearing any mines in its path.
Closing date: in 7 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 20 positions available )
Being a Intelligence Analyst means you’re vital to the Royal Navy's intelligence gathering operation. The go-to for information that shapes the operational decision-making process. Your insight will transform raw data into an indispensable analysis of the situation. You’ll also use your keen eye for detail to prepare briefings for senior officers.
Closing date: in 7 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
HEYGATES LIMITED
( Added 29 Jul 2025 - 1 position available )
A fantastic opportunity has become available for an IT support trainee to join the team, reporting to the Head of IT. This new and challenging role will give the opportunity to work with a wide range of enterprise technologies and potential to travel to other sites in the UK. An exciting and varied role.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 13 Dec 2025
BUBBLE IT SOLUTIONS LTD
( Added 12 Aug 2025 - 1 position available )
As an IT Support Engineer Apprentice at Bubble IT, you’ll be the first point of contact for customers needing technical help. You’ll gain hands-on experience resolving a range of IT issues and developing your knowledge across hardware, software, and network support.
Closing date: in 11 days
Possible start date: 10 Nov 2025
BV Dairy
( Added 27 Aug 2025 - 1 position available )
First line business support, onsite, resolving issues such as forgotten passwords, connection and printing issues, and general problem identification. Covering customer service, system maintenance, and security, preparing you for more complex technical support roles.
Closing date: in 8 days
Possible start date: 03 Nov 2025
FORESIGHT (NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE)
( Added 08 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )
Are you organised, detail-oriented, and passionate about making a difference behind the scenes? As a Data Processor, you’ll play a key role in keeping things running smoothly, from managing vital records to coordinating services that support the community every day.
Closing date: in 16 days
Possible start date: 22 Nov 2025
INTERM IT (UK) LIMITED
( Added 08 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )
This is an IT Level 3 Apprenticeship role - split 80/20 between employment with the employer, and remote learning - gaining qualifications with Solveway Apprenticeships! We are looking for motivated, hard-working people who are passionate about technology. Our apprenticeship programme is intended for candidates who are looking for a career in IT.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 29 Nov 2025
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The role of an intelligence analyst primarily involves collecting, analysing, and interpreting data to inform strategic decisions, which closely aligns with the responsibilities of a Market research data analyst. Both roles require strong analytical skills, data interpretation, and the ability to generate insights to guide policy or business strategies.
You can get into this job through:
You can become an intelligence analyst with a degree in a wide range of subjects. However, you could gain useful skills from a degree that includes data analysis, for example:
You'll usually need:
You could do an apprenticeship such as:
You'll usually need:
a degree in a relevant subject
You might be able to start in a related job in the security services like researcher or language specialist. You could then apply to join an intelligence officer training programme.
If you work for the police, you could apply to become a police intelligence officer. Each police force sets its own entry requirements.
You could apply for MI5's Intelligence and Data Analyst Development Programme if you have a degree or relevant work experience.
You might 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 ready to answer questions about your personal life, relationships, family and finances.
Summer internship schemes and student placements are a useful way to find out more about the role and the recruitment process.
In more specialist roles, you might find it useful to be able to speak a different language.
You can find out more about a career in intelligence from:
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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