The integration of statistical learning in intelligence education: is the academy equipping tomorrow’s intelligence professionals to analyze data-centric threats?

Abstract

ABSTRACT ‘We need data-literate analysts’ is a refrain heard from both the intelligence community and the private sector. In this study we ascertain the degree to which graduate programs in intelligence studies 1) meet professional standards and 2) have integrated quantitative analysis courses into their curricula. To better understand the current state of intelligence education we used a modified version of the International Association for Intelligence Education (IAFIE) educational standards to examine 28 United States educational institutions offering a graduate program focused on national security intelligence. One-quarter of the programs (25%) offered classes in all seven educational categories. In addition, of the programs surveyed, 25% have developed curricula that provide statistical learning skills. Considering the significant changes in the US threat environment, and the comparative lack of quantitative analysis content in graduate intelligence programs in the US, there is an urgent need to make intelligence curricula more robust and comprehensive by adding quantitative analysis capabilities. We posit that a well-trained and educated intelligence workforce must include peer-reviewed standards for intelligence education. A debate on the accreditation of intelligence programs is a logical next step to advancing the intelligence profession through continuous improvement of the quality of academic degree programs and curricula.