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How to become an intelligence officer

Gather, investigate, and interpret information that impacts organisations' programs and operations.

What does an intelligence officer do?

Intelligence officers usually work for the government, performing analysis in the areas of crime and defence. They compile critical information into briefs that organisations use to make informed decisions.

Duties and tasks

  • Work out what information needs to be collected.

  • Develop a plan to gather intelligence using appropriate surveillance and secrecy measures.

  • Compile findings into briefs, reports, and other formats for distribution within the organisation.

  • Liaise and cooperate with other organisations on joint or cross-border operations.

  • Observe security and classification requirements.

Industry bodies

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Macquarie University

Master of Intelligence

PostgraduateMAQ-ITL-MAS

Make an impact on complex global intelligence challenges

Develop advanced skills to lead today’s intelligence environment. Learn how to interpret data, identify threats, and communicate your findings. These abilities help inform critical decisions in policing, defence, and global security.

Study method
100% online
Duration
1 year full time or part time equivalent
Macquarie University

Bachelor of Security Studies

UndergraduateMAQ-BSS-DEG

A degree designed in consultation with security industry stakeholders

Scrutinise risk analysis, intelligence, emergency responses and national resilience. Apply analytical tools to contemporary security, defence and policy challenges. Graduates pursue government graduate intake programs or careers in the private sector.

Study method
100% online
Duration
3 years full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
University of Southern Queensland

Harness big data to make big decisions

Steer your career towards the dynamic AI industry. You’ll explore data mining and learn how to manage what you find. Dive deep into deep learning. Unpack the techniques of natural language processing. You’ll also look at programming and project management.

Study method
100% online
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
University of Southern Queensland

Become an AI professional

Learn to mine data, create database systems, and feed AI algorithms. You’ll study programming, maths and networks. Cover statistical concepts. Think about AI solutions for real world problems. Grow your professional skills. Get real industry experience.

Study method
100% online
Duration
3 years full time or part time equivalent
Explore intelligence courses

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Murdoch University

Security and Technology

UndergraduateMUR-POL208

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 27 Jul 2026
University of Tasmania

Defensive Cyber Security Procedures

UndergraduateTAS-ZAT127

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 6 Jul 2026
University of Tasmania

Cyber Threat Intelligence

UndergraduateTAS-ZAT126

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 23 Feb 2026
University of Tasmania

Risk and Security Management

UndergraduateTAS-ZAT125

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 23 Feb 2026

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