MA Intelligence and Security Studies

The MA in Intelligence and Security Studies (MAISS) at Brunel University London is a distinctive, policy-oriented postgraduate program designed to equip students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge for careers in intelligence, security, and related fields.

The MAISS stands out for its practical focus and industry connections. Students gain access to BCISS’s extensive network through a speaker series featuring government and private sector experts, fostering links with organisations like the British Security Service, National Crime Agency, and private firms. The program’s emphasis on real-world skills, such as OSINT and the BASE exercise, prepares graduates for roles in intelligence agencies, banking, consultancy, or alumni-founded firms like Grey Dynamics.

Brunel University London is a forward-thinking public research university with a strong reputation for innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry-focused education. Founded in 1966, it has evolved into a globally recognised institution, home to around 18,000 students from over 150 countries. Its modern campus in Uxbridge, West London, offers an engaging and diverse learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities and easy access to the capital.

The university is structured into three academic colleges: Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences; Business, Arts and Social Sciences; and Health, Medicine and Life Sciences. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes, particularly strong in fields such as engineering, computing, business, health sciences, and design. 

Brunel is especially well-known for its emphasis on practical learning and employability. Many of its degrees incorporate a placement year, providing students with valuable real-world experience.

To apply, you must submit a personal statement detailing your interest and qualifications, a reference from an academic or employer, and a CV outlining your relevant experience.

Grade Requirements:

• Applicant to hold a 2:1 (or above) UK Honours degree
• Relevant equivalent international qualifications will also be considered.

English Proficiency:

• Applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds must achieve a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• Equivalent test scores, such as TOEFL or PTE, are also accepted

The tuition fee for international students enrolled in this program is £28,350.

Brunel University offers a variety of scholarship opportunities and financial assistance for international students. These include the Vice-Chancellor’s Postgraduate International Excellence Award 2025/2026, the Brunel Graduate Discount, the Postgraduate Academic Excellence Scholarship, the Chevening Scholarship, and several others. International applicants are encouraged to explore and apply through the university’s official scholarship portal.

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared to pursue a range of careers, including roles such as:

• Intelligence Analyst
• Counterterrorism Specialist
• Risk and Crisis Management Consultant
• Defence and Security Researcher
• Law Enforcement Intelligence Officer

Applicants can submit their application through UCAS or the university’s international application form. For any support, our trained counsellors are available to assist you.