what course in high school helps to be a cia agent

What Classes Should I Take to Be a CIA Field Agent?

• Science and Math Field agents are responsible for determining what type of information to collect and where to seek it. ...
• Foreign Languages Interacting with informants in other countries is a large part of what field operatives do, so you should be fluent in another language. ...
• Business and Politics Succeeding as a field agent requires knowledge of how various countries operate. ...
• Writing and Speaking ...

Full Answer

What is the best college to become a CIA agent?

Top 10 Schools for CIA Agents 1 – Arizona State University. Masters of Arts (M.A) in Emergency Management – The 33-credit hour program offers... 2 – George Mason University. Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Criminology, Law & Society – This program offers a... 3 – Naval Postgraduate College. Master of ...

What are the requirements to become a CIA Agent Investigator?

Although specific bachelor degree programs are not a requirement for achieving CIA agent investigative jobs, many candidates in this field pursue bachelor degree programs in: Individuals must complete the 56-day Criminal Investigation Training Program through the Federal Law Enforcement Training Program as a condition of employment.

What skills do you need to work for the CIA?

Candidates for CIA agent jobs in clandestine services must: Be a citizen of the United States Be at least 18 years old Possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 Have strong interpersonal skills Have a strong interest in international affairs Be able to write clearly and accurately

How do you become a CIA agent in clandestine services?

The Clandestine Service (CST) Program (for core collectors, operations officers and collection management officers) is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree, as well as several years of business/military experience. Most candidates are between 26 and 35 years old. Candidates for CIA agent jobs in clandestine services must:

How long do you have to work at CIA before graduating?

How many quarters do you have to go to school to get a CIA fellowship?

How many days do you have to work at CIA?

What is CIA housing?

What is the CIA's primary goal?

Does the CIA have co-op?

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What education do you need for the CIA?

bachelor's degreeAll CIA positions require a bachelor's degree, but some may prefer or require a master's or doctorate degree. Another variable is experience: Most CIA jobs want at least at least one year of prior experience, but some require three to five years.

Can you join the CIA after high school?

Candidates for CIA agent jobs in clandestine services must: Be a citizen of the United States. Be at least 18 years old. Possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

At what age does the CIA recruit?

at least 18 years oldHow to Qualify for a Job at the CIA. The CIA has several concrete eligibility requirements. Job candidates must apply for CIA positions online while inside of the U.S. through the CIA's Career Application Center and be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen.

What skills does the CIA look for?

Special agents/investigators must possess:An in-depth knowledge of administrative investigative techniques and procedures.The ability to bring together and organize large amounts of data.The ability to draw appropriate conclusions.The ability to work alone or as part of a team.The ability to work under pressure.More items...

How do people get recruited into the CIA?

If you are interested in a career as a CIA agent, here are some steps you need to follow:Earn a bachelor's degree. ... Consider earning a master's degree. ... Become fluent in one or two foreign languages. ... Gain relevant experience. ... Complete the required testing and medical examinations. ... Finish an internal training program.

Can I work at the CIA with a GED?

Even though some cia agents have a college degree, it's possible to become one with only a high school degree or GED. Choosing the right major is always an important step when researching how to become a cia agent.

What pay scale does the CIA use?

The salaries of CIA Agent (Central Intelligence Agency Agent)s in the US range from $41,200 to $128,690 , with a median salary of $77,210 . The middle 60% of CIA Agent (Central Intelligence Agency Agent)s makes $77,210, with the top 80% making $128,690.

Who was the female CIA agent in Zero Dark Thirty?

actress Jessica ChastainRepresentations. Bikowsky's career and personality were the main models for the character Maya (portrayed by actress Jessica Chastain) in the film Zero Dark Thirty (2012), although Maya is a composite character of several women involved in finding Osama Bin Laden.

Cia College Degree Qualifications For Clandestine Positions

One of the largest areas of professional opportunity lies within the CIA’s National Clandestine Service (NCS), which is responsible for the investi...

Cia College Degree Qualifications For Investigative Positions

The CIA’s team of special agents within the Office of Inspector General is responsible for conducting investigations and reviews into illicit activ...

Cia College Degree Qualifications For Analyst Positions

The CIA employs a wide array of analysts who are responsible for taking the intelligence gathered through clandestine work and transforming it into...

Undergraduate Scholarship Program - CIA

The Undergraduate Scholarship Program is a financial needs-based initiative where you will be exposed to intelligence challenges while performing meaningful work that relates to your college major.

CIA Internships - Intern for the CIA

CIA Internships – An Overview. The CIA, also known as the Central Intelligence Agency, is a US Government agency. It is an independent intelligence-gathering agency and it is responsible for providing national security intelligence to US policymakers.

Undergraduate Internship Program-Directorate of Operations

About the Job. Please check back circa late fall 2022 for information on Summer 2024/2025 DO Internships. As a Directorate of Operations Undergraduate Intern for CIA, you will support the Directorate of Operations (DO) mission to collect human intelligence on critical international developments.

CIA Training - CIA Agent Edu

Training is an integral component of career preparation within the Central Intelligence Agency’s (CIA) Directorate of Intelligence (DI). Employees of the CIA’s Directorate of Intelligence are called upon to provide timely and accurate intelligence analysis to the President, the Cabinet, and senior policymakers within the United States government.

Student Hire Internship Pathway for Acquisition Professionals - DHS

Students are paid at the GS-04, Step 1 level ($17.51 per hour). Approximate salary listed is based on current General Schedule Locality Pay Table in the Washington, DC area.Upon graduation, student interns may be converted into positions in the Acquisition Professional Career Program (APCP) where they progress on a career ladder of increasing responsibility and salaries.

Cybersecurity Internship Program | Homeland Security - DHS

To be considered you must: Be a U.S. citizen; Be able to obtain and hold a security clearance; Be enrolled in a bachelor's or master's degree program in an accredited university with a major in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Network Engineering, Software Engineering, Supply Chain, Information Assurance, Information Technology, Systems ...

What does it mean to be a CIA agent?

When you become a CIA agent, you will work as a federal employer. You will be in charge of collecting and evaluating intelligence information that has to do with the security of the country. It’s very common for CIA agents to work overseas, but you may also work in the United States.

How much does a CIA agent make?

According to CIA.gov, the starting salary for a CIA protective agent is between $80,027 to $95,920. If you have three years of investigative experience, you can earn between $75K and $136K as a CIA agent.

How long is clandestine service training?

For example, if you will be going into clandestine service, you will complete an 18-month Clandestine Service Trainee program. Each area of expertise has a different type of training program.

Can you become an asset for the CIA?

If you’re fluent in one or more of these languages, you can become an asset for the CIA.

Can an internship help build a resume?

An internship can certainly help build your resume.

How long do you have to work at CIA before graduating?

Graduate students must work at least one 90-day tour at CIA before graduating. After graduation, all scholarship recipients must work at CIA for a period of 1.5 years per year of paid scholarship received. Deadlines. Students have to go through our medical and security process.

How many quarters do you have to go to school to get a CIA fellowship?

All candidates must have at least one quarter or semester of school to return to after serving in the fellowship. After graduation, fellowship recipients who successfully transition to full-time, career status at the CIA after graduating will also be eligible to receive a $10,000 hiring bonus. Deadlines.

How many days do you have to work at CIA?

Requirements. Undergraduate students must work at least one, and preferably two, 90-day session (s) at CIA before graduating. Graduate students must work at least one 90-day tour at CIA before graduating. All candidates must have been accepted to or attending a four year, accredited MSI.

What is CIA housing?

CIA assists with transportation costs and provides access to lots of local information and resources. CIA provided housing options from corporate housing partners to university programs. They have a variety of resources to help you find housing accommodations close to your work location.

What is the CIA's primary goal?

CIA’s primary goals are collecting information, analyzing it, and providing assessments to our senior policymakers and the President himself. So imagine a real big project, with all kinds of moving parts – translations, measurements, projections, auditing, analysis, and more. Then imagine all the behind-the-scenes work to get those projects up and running – operations, budgeting, scheduling, resource management, information technology, etc. When you work at the CIA, you’ll find yourself working on just about any part of those projects.

Does the CIA have co-op?

Schools with co-operative programs typically have specific requirements to receive co-op credit. So, we designed our co-op program at the CIA to help students meet those requirements. As part of our program, students work on an alternating semester basis for at least three semesters before they graduate. This can include a summer work session as well. Since our Agency does not work with an established list of co-op programs, students will need to work with their schools to receive academic credit.

How long does it take to get a Master of Arts in Security Studies?

Master of Arts (M.A) in Security Studies – This program can be completed within 18 months. The program trains students to develop the skills and expertise required to design plans, programs, and strategies to prevent terrorist attacks in the country. The curriculum is made up of the following modules: Strategic Planning and Budgeting for Homeland Security, The Unconventional Threat to Homeland Security, Technology for Homeland Security, Intelligence for Homeland Security and Comparative Government for Homeland Security.

How many credits are needed for a bachelors in Homeland Security?

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Homeland Security – This online program requires completion of 120 credits. The coursework includes topics related to Public Safety Leadership, Homeland Security and International Relations, Legal and Political Issues of Homeland Security, and Homeland Security Response to Critical Incidents. This program has been designed to instill students with leadership skills, interpersonal skills, a global outlook, and knowledge about current issues in international and domestic security.

What is a certificate in homeland security?

Certificate in Homeland Security – This program is offered on-campus, online, or via a combination of formats. This is an ideal program for professionals who are already working in the fields of cyber security, law enforcement, emergency management, public safety, and homeland security. The modules are taught by internationally and nationally acclaimed faculty members, who bring expertise and unique experience to the class room.#N#Students are given a choice to select from these specialization areas: National Security Policy and Management, Border Security, Critical Infrastructure Protection, and Emergency Management and Crisis Preparedness. The program’s curriculum is composed of a range of modules related to the U.S. Law and Homeland Security, Homeland Defense, Domestic Intelligence Operations, Protection of the Nation’s Critical Infrastructure, Research Methods for Homeland Security Studies and Homeland Security Policies, Strategies, and Operations.

What is a graduate certificate in emergency management?

Graduate Certificate in Emergency Management and Homeland Security – This program is best suited for professionals seeking to or working in careers related to homeland security and emergency management. The coursework focuses on managing emergencies, man-made threats and security crises, through the coordination of non-profit, private and public sectors. Students are required to complete 18 credit hours and study two elective courses and four core courses.

How long does it take to get a masters in international affairs?

They can be completed in around 21 months. The coursework exposes students to a range of modules such as Theories of International Politics, Theories of War and Peace, Terrorism and Counter Terrorism, Understanding Intelligence Operations, Cyber War and International Ethics.

How many credits are required for a Master of Science in Security Management?

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Security Management – The 2-year long program requires completion of 36 credits of coursework. The degree focuses on defense protocols, as well as homeland security. The curriculum includes a diverse range of topics such as Contemporary Issues in Security Management, Security of Information and Technology, Theory and Design of Security Systems, Risk, Threat and Critical Infrastructure, and Introduction to Protection Management Systems.

How long does it take to get a masters in security studies at Naval Postgraduate College?

The Naval Postgraduate College offers the following programs: Master of Arts (M.A) in Security Studies – This program can be completed within 18 months. The program trains students to develop the skills and expertise required to design plans, programs, and strategies to prevent terrorist attacks in the country.

What is a CIA college degree?

CIA College Degree Qualifications for Clandestine Positions. One of the largest areas of professional opportunity lies within the CIA’s National Clandestine Service (NCS), which is responsible for the investigation, assessment, and analysis of foreign intelligence, which is provided to the President of the United States and other key U.S.

What is a CIA degree?

CIA College Degree Qualifications for Investigative Positions. The CIA’s team of special agents within the Office of Inspector General is responsible for conducting investigations and reviews into illicit activity within the Agency. This may include inquiries into: Violations of rules, regulations and laws.

What is a CIA analyst?

CIA analysts, who are part of the CIA’s Directorate of Intelligence (DI), must be able to anticipate and assess evolving international developments and their impact upon the U.S. and its interests. Due to the complex nature of intelligence analysis, the DI employs a number of professional analysts: Targeting analyst.

What degree do you need to be an intelligence analyst?

Intelligence collection analysts must be experts in intelligence gathering; therefore, the CIA seeks candidates with bachelor or master’s degrees in programs such as:

What degree do you need to be a counter terrorism analyst?

Counterterrorism analysts for the CIA, who provide assessments of the motivations and intentions of foreign terrorist groups, must possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree in national security studies, international affairs, or a closely related field. Economic analysts with the CIA must, as is expected, possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree in:

What is the minimum GPA required to become an analyst?

All analyst positions require, at a minimum, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum 3.0 GPA, although the CIA notes that competitive candidates often have higher GPAs, relevant experience, and foreign language proficiency.

What is the CIA?

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is the nation’s premier agency for global intelligence. The CIA’s diverse group of professionals possesses a vast array of specialties that allow them to understand and confront the swiftly-transforming political, economic, technological, military, and social landscapes that influence the national security of the United States.

What is the role of the CIA?

Since 1947, the CIA has played an important role in national security. This federal agency collects and analyzes intelligence to protect the United States from national security threats. Among the security threats the CIA focuses on are terrorism, international organized crime, narcotics trafficking, arms control intelligence, ...

What is the job of a CIA analyst?

The main charge for CIA analysts is the synthesis of field information into briefs and reports used to guide decision-making.

Why do CIA field officers travel overseas?

Field officers in the CIA’s clandestine service travel overseas to collect human intelligence that helps the agency protect national security. This position is critical to the success of U.S. foreign policy and national security.

What does a technical intelligence officer do?

Similarly, science, engineering, and technology positions with the CIA take many forms, but each technical intelligence officer uses their technical skills to research, develop, or analyze new technological solutions.

What is the role of a linguist in the CIA?

They also serve in a teaching capacity as part of the CIA’s foreign language program.

Why are field officers important to the CIA?

Field officers in the CIA’s clandestine service travel overseas to collect human intelligence that helps the agency protect national security. This position is critical to the success of U.S. foreign policy and national security. Field officers, also referred to as operations officers, above all, must possess excellent judgment and the ability to build rapport and assess character. The initial training takes up to two years as they learn the essential elements of the job. They spend most of their careers deployed in strategic locations overseas.

What is the most important characteristic of the CIA?

Integrity . Integrity is one of the most critical characteristics that one must possess when working for the CIA. In fact, integrity is part of the Agency’s mission statement. Personnel are privy to classified information and must operate at the highest level when it comes to ethics, honesty, and solidarity. Intelligence.

What skills are required for CIA?

"All of our positions require strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills ."

How old do you have to be to work at the CIA?

Job candidates must apply for CIA positions online while inside of the U.S. through the CIA's Career Application Center and be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen.

What is a must for a potential CIA officer?

An interest in exploring the world is a must for a potential CIA officer, as is a passion for public service, Brandwin says. Because she had a covert CIA position, one of the challenges of her job was living with "duality" and not being able to be upfront with others about who she was, she explains.

How many directorates does the CIA have?

The CIA has five areas called directorates, each focusing on a specific aspect of the agency's mission, such as science and technology. The agency is led by a director who is nominated by a president and confirmed by the U.S. Senate. (Getty Images)

How does the CIA work?

CIA personnel with differing areas of expertise can collaborate on projects via one of the agency's multiple mission centers, which are designed to address threats to national security in an interdisciplinary way. The agency is led by a director who is nominated by a president and confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

What is the CIA?

Employees of the Central Intelligence Agency, commonly known as the CIA, regularly conduct top-secret missions whose details they typically must not share with anyone outside the agency. A career with the CIA is typically characterized by a combination of discretion and humility. Further, although many CIA employees may state their affiliation ...

What are the jobs that Americans with a strong sense of patriotism can get?

Americans with a strong sense of a patriotism, a desire for adventure and an interest in foreign policy often seek public-facing jobs within the U.S. military or the U.S. State Department, where it is possible to win fame and glory.

How to work in the CIA?

You must communicate clearly with informants and with your collection management officer. The CIA looks for candidates with exceptional verbal and written skills. Writing courses, focused on nonfiction, journalism and technical writing, will help you present facts clearly and concisely. A course in public speaking can help hone your oral presentation skills. You also could volunteer to present at conferences or to speak on behalf of a professional, student or volunteer organization.

What do you need to be a field agent?

Succeeding as a field agent requires knowledge of how various countries operate. So, college courses in international business or international relations could be particularly valuable to aspiring operatives; the study of economics is also recommended. Political science courses can help you understand how the CIA functions as a federal agency and how it interacts with governments in other countries. An internship in a company that does business abroad could boost your chances of landing an interview with the agency, particularly if you worked overseas.

What language do CIA informants speak?

Languages the CIA considers of particular interest include Chinese, Arabic, Russian, Turkish, Korean, Indonesian, Dari, Pashto, Persian, Somali, Kurdish and Urdu. If you become proficient in a particular language, you could be eligible for a bonus.

What are field agents? What are their responsibilities?

Field agents are responsible for determining what type of information to collect and where to seek it. As some of the information may be scientific or technical, the CIA is interested in recruits who have studied subjects such as nuclear, biological or chemical engineering or physical science. Mathematical skills are also useful, as is coursework in computer science. If you have a degree and experience in science, math or engineering, you could also be eligible for a career as a CIA technical operations officer should you decide to transition to a U.S.-based job.

How old do you have to be to work at the CIA?

You Must Be a U.S. Citizen and at Least 18 Years of Age. You must be a U.S. citizen or a dual-national U.S. citizen to work at CIA. If you are in the process of becoming a U.S. citizen, you can apply as soon as you are awarded citizenship, but not before. We do not help individuals apply for U.S. citizenship.

What do we look for in a background investigation?

During the background investigation, we interview neighbors, friends, supervisors, and co-workers to evaluate your character, trustworthiness, and loyalty to the United States. We also look into any conflicts of interest or potential for coercion, as well as your ability to protect sensitive information.

Why do we assess each applicant as a whole?

We understand that no one is perfect. For this reason, we assess each applicant as a whole, rather than based on a single mistake or issue from the past. To increase transparency, here are some common reasons why we might disqualify applicants.

Do you follow the CIA on social media?

For your security, if you are interested in or have applied for a job at CIA, do not follow us on social media. This includes posting content, following or friending accounts, and liking or sharing content or commentary.

Do equal opportunity employers discriminate?

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we do not discriminate in hiring or granting, denying, or revoking security clearances.

Do you have to be physically outside the US to apply for a job?

This is for your safety and security. While you may travel abroad for a short duration during the hiring process, do not contact us while you are physically outside of the United States or its territories.

Do you have to take part in a polygraph interview?

All applicants must take part in a polygraph interview. Our polygraph examiners are highly trained security professionals. We keep all answers confidential.

What classes do I need to get into the FBI?

If you are interested in applying to the specific accounting or computer science/technology entry of the FBI, you should focus on high school math and technology classes. The FBI is made up Many high schools offer math courses that might include math courses like algebra, calculus and geometry which are all relevant fields of study for FBI acceptance. Advanced placement math courses offer further high school challenges in these STEM fields. Focusing on math may provide an important foundation for an accounting degree, which could be used to investigate white collar crimes at the FBI. In addition, due to widespread computer crimes both domestically and internationally, the FBI often seeks applicants who are well-versed in computer science and technology. Signing up for computer classes, workshops and clubs throughout your high school career can be done not only through your high school campus but also with community STEM options, community college courses and dual enrollment opportunities.

How many years of college do I need to become an FBI agent?

All FBI agents are required to be U.S. citizens who have a four-year degree from an accredited college.

Why do FBI agents work in tandem with other branches of government?

FBI agents protect the United States from domestic and international threats. In addition, FBI agents work in tandem with other branches of government to protect citizens and uphold the law. Because there are many areas of specialization at the FBI, high school students can prepare for a career as an agent by maintaining strong grades across ...

What should I do in high school to prepare for law school?

In order to prepare for college and law school, high school students should focus on humanities courses that require a great deal of reading and writing. In addition, the FBI also employs agents who are fluent in several languages. Many high schools offer a range of language courses. Take advantage of the foreign language opportunities ...

What are the physical requirements for a special agent?

Special Agent Physical Requirements. FBI agents maintaining physically fit lifestyles helps them excel in the often-dangerous situations and environments of the career. The FBI physical fitness test includes timed sit-ups and push-ups, a 300 meter sprint and a timed 1.5 mile run.

Can I sign up for computer classes in high school?

Signing up for computer classes, workshops and clubs throughout your high school career can be done not only through your high school campus but also with community STEM ...

How long do you have to work at CIA before graduating?

Graduate students must work at least one 90-day tour at CIA before graduating. After graduation, all scholarship recipients must work at CIA for a period of 1.5 years per year of paid scholarship received. Deadlines. Students have to go through our medical and security process.

How many quarters do you have to go to school to get a CIA fellowship?

All candidates must have at least one quarter or semester of school to return to after serving in the fellowship. After graduation, fellowship recipients who successfully transition to full-time, career status at the CIA after graduating will also be eligible to receive a $10,000 hiring bonus. Deadlines.

How many days do you have to work at CIA?

Requirements. Undergraduate students must work at least one, and preferably two, 90-day session (s) at CIA before graduating. Graduate students must work at least one 90-day tour at CIA before graduating. All candidates must have been accepted to or attending a four year, accredited MSI.

What is CIA housing?

CIA assists with transportation costs and provides access to lots of local information and resources. CIA provided housing options from corporate housing partners to university programs. They have a variety of resources to help you find housing accommodations close to your work location.

What is the CIA's primary goal?

CIA’s primary goals are collecting information, analyzing it, and providing assessments to our senior policymakers and the President himself. So imagine a real big project, with all kinds of moving parts – translations, measurements, projections, auditing, analysis, and more. Then imagine all the behind-the-scenes work to get those projects up and running – operations, budgeting, scheduling, resource management, information technology, etc. When you work at the CIA, you’ll find yourself working on just about any part of those projects.

Does the CIA have co-op?

Schools with co-operative programs typically have specific requirements to receive co-op credit. So, we designed our co-op program at the CIA to help students meet those requirements. As part of our program, students work on an alternating semester basis for at least three semesters before they graduate. This can include a summer work session as well. Since our Agency does not work with an established list of co-op programs, students will need to work with their schools to receive academic credit.