Open-Source Intelligence
PostgraduateMAQ-PICX80702026
Course information for 2026 intake
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Enrol by
- 15 Feb 2026
- Entry requirements
- Part of a degree
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Start dates
- 23 Feb 2026
- Price from
- $4,320
- Upfront cost
- $0
- Loan available
- FEE-HELP available
Open-Source Intelligence
About this subject
On successful completion, a student will be able to:
- Use investigative tools and techniques to collect and analyse open-source information in support of intelligence production.
- Exercise critical judgment in evaluating the reliability, relevance, and limitations of open-source intelligence sources.
- Produce original intelligence products using open-source data, tailored to real-world decision-making needs.
- Assess and respond to ethical and security challenges associated with conducting open-source intelligence in contemporary intelligence practice.
- A week-by-week guide to the topics you will explore in this subject will be provided in your study materials.
In today’s information-rich environment, open-source intelligence (OSINT) has become an import public source of information and analysis. This hands-on unit teaches students a range of OSINT techniques, skills, and approaches essential to modern intelligence practice. Students will learn to use geolocation tools, conduct image analysis, and apply cyber investigative techniques, among other methods. The unit is structured around a progression from guided instruction in OSINT tools to independent intelligence collection and analysis. Students will plan and conduct investigations, assess sources, and produce intelligence products grounded in publicly available information. Ethical and security considerations are explored throughout, encouraging students to engage critically with the challenges of open-source work. By the end of the unit, students will be proficient in using a range of OSINT techniques to support robust, ethically informed intelligence assessments.
- Examination (50%)
- Intelligence Report (50%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 44,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.
Learn more about Macquarie University.
Explore Macquarie courses.
- QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:
- 11
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:
- 9
Entry requirements
Part of a degree
To enrol in this subject you must be accepted into one of the following degrees:
Core
- MAQ-ITL-MAS-2026 - Master of Intelligence
Others
Pre-requisite-Admission to MIntell
NCCW (2020 and onwards)
PICT8070 Open-Source Intelligence
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
Related degrees
Once you’ve completed this subject it can be credited towards one of the following courses
PostgraduateMAQ-ITL-MAS