An intelligence analyst collects, evaluates, and interprets information from various sources to support national security, law enforcement, or corporate objectives. In the UK, this role often involves working with government agencies such as MI5, MI6, GCHQ, or the police. Analysts use open-source intelligence, surveillance data, and secret reports to identify threats, trends, and patterns. Their findings help inform decision-making on issues like terrorism, cyber security, and organised crime. The job requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly. Many intelligence analysts have degrees in subjects like politics, international relations, languages, or computer science, although relevant experience and security clearance are also important.
Intelligence analysts in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £45,000 per year, with experienced analysts in senior roles earning up to £60,000 or more.
There are approximately 4,000 intelligence analysts working across various UK government agencies, including MI5, MI6, GCHQ, and law enforcement.
Demand for intelligence analysts is expected to grow by around 7 percent over the next five years, driven by increasing needs for national security and cyber defence.
Focuses on identifying and analysing digital threats and cyber attacks to help organisations protect their data and systems.
Specialises in gathering and interpreting information to prevent and respond to terrorist activities, working with law enforcement and security agencies.
Works with police forces to analyse crime patterns, trends and suspect profiles in order to support criminal investigations.
Obtain GCSEs, including English and Maths, as a minimum requirement.
Having strong grades in subjects like English, Maths, and Science is important. Some intelligence roles may also value foreign languages or IT skills, so consider choosing these as options if available. Good communication and analytical abilities start with a strong academic base.
Take A Levels or equivalent qualifications, focusing on relevant subjects.
Subjects such as History, Politics, Languages, Computer Science, or Psychology can be helpful for developing analytical and critical thinking skills. These subjects will prepare you for the demands of higher education and the analytical nature of intelligence work.
Earn a degree in a subject relevant to intelligence analysis.
While not always essential, many intelligence analyst roles require a degree. Useful subjects include International Relations, Criminology, Computer Science, Languages, or Politics. Some agencies may offer graduate schemes or entry-level roles for those with strong academic backgrounds.
Practice researching, evaluating information, and problem-solving.
You can develop these skills through coursework, independent research, or by joining clubs such as debating or Model United Nations. Employers look for people who can think critically, spot patterns, and draw logical conclusions based on evidence.
Research intelligence agencies and relevant organisations.
Familiarise yourself with agencies like MI5, MI6, GCHQ, as well as police intelligence units. Explore their websites and read about their work, recruitment processes, and the skills they look for. Understanding the sector will help you tailor your applications and prepare for interviews.
Apply for internships, placements, or volunteering roles.
Some intelligence agencies offer summer internships or graduate schemes. If these are not available, consider roles in research, law enforcement, or IT that require similar skills. Volunteering or working in a research or investigative capacity can also strengthen your CV.
Write a tailored CV and cover letter, highlighting your relevant skills.
Focus on your analytical abilities, attention to detail, and any relevant experience or education. Use examples to demonstrate your skills and show your motivation for working in intelligence. Make sure your application meets the requirements listed by the employer.
Undergo background checks and security vetting.
Working as an intelligence analyst often requires a high level of security clearance. This process may include checks on your personal, financial, and work history, as well as interviews. Be prepared to provide detailed information and references.
Take part in selection exercises and interviews.
Recruitment may involve assessment centres, situational judgement tests, and competency-based interviews. Practice answering questions about your analytical approach and decision-making. Research common scenarios and prepare examples from your experience.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Intelligence Analyst. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
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The role of an Intelligence analyst most closely aligns with the career of an Intelligence analyst because both involve gathering, interpreting, and analysing information to support decision-making and strategic planning. They typically require strong analytical skills, understanding of intelligence processes, and the ability to synthesise complex data sets.
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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