Intelligence and National Security Leiden University

Overview

In the track Intelligence and National Security of the MSc Crisis and Security Management you will be introduced to intelligence and security services in their political, societal, and bureaucratic contexts. The track will give you a thorough understanding of the modus operandi of these agencies, their interaction with the surrounding world, and the challenges they face.

By studying the history, theory and practice of intelligence in the 21st Century, you will navigate the evolution of intelligence work to meet new security challenges, and you will learn the methods, techniques and forms of critical thinking that equip future intelligence analysts with the ability to weigh hypotheses, detect patterns, and derive logical conclusions about the world. You will also explore intelligence in its wider societal and political context, how they cooperate with other agencies and institutions and analyze and evaluate how intelligence services should be governed and held to account in democratic societies.

What you will learn

After completing the MSc Crisis and Security Management, you are an academically trained, reflective professional in crisis and security management. You develop a critical mindset, scholarly independence, and the ability to learn and work autonomously. You gain general knowledge of core topics and specialised knowledge in your chosen track, can analyse complex issues at local, national, and international levels, and reflect on the ethical and normative dimensions of crisis and security management and their impact on government officials, civil society actors, and private organisations.

Career prospects

After completing the MSc Crisis and Security Management, you have the knowledge and skills to address emerging security and crisis challenges from a governance perspective. You can analyse complex situations, conduct independent research, and develop policy recommendations. Graduates typically find positions in their field quickly, thanks to the combination of academic knowledge and practical skills. You are prepared for roles in government, international organisations, NGOs, consultancies, or the private sector, in analytical, policy-making, or strategic positions where you can apply your research and analytical skills.

Examples of jobs

• (Business) Analyst
• Consultant
• Crisis response coordinator
• Network security coordinator
• Policy Officer
• Research Assistant

Accreditation

Accredited by NVAO, the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders.