Strategic Intelligence, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

The core of the graduate certificate in strategic intelligence, offered through Saint Louis University's School for Professional Studies, lies at the intersection of intelligence and policy. Designed for students seeking careers in the intelligence field and those who already work in intelligence collection, analysis or dissemination, the program will prepare you to adapt your education and skills to real-world scenarios that require both technical analysis and operational implementation. 

Through this program, you’ll be qualified to evaluate and manage various information sources, determining their relevance to strategic intelligence, and translate that information into actionable outcomes. Enhance your skills in any management or strategy role within defense and intelligence industries, criminal justice fields, and federal, state, and local agencies, such as the FBI, CIA, DIA, NGA and NSA.

If you complete the certificate, you also have the option of applying to the Master of Science in Strategic Intelligence program and, if accepted, have all of the certificate credits count towards the master's degree.

Curriculum Overview

As part of the School for Professional Studies, this 12-credit, fully online program offers technology-driven professionals like you a flexible option to meet your personal career goals. If you have obtained an undergraduate degree or higher, you may pursue a stand-alone certificate in cybersecurity. All courses are offered in eight-week terms through SLU Online, making advanced education more accessible for working professionals. 

Careers

SLU's post-baccalaureate certificate in strategic intelligence prepares you to think strategically, analyze data, and derive actionable plans and policies. Graduates of the program have the educational foundation necessary to succeed as intelligence analysts and analytical leaders/managers within defense and intelligence industries, criminal justice fields, and federal, state and local agencies, such as the FBI, CIA, DIA, NGA and NSA. 

Admission Requirements

• Completed application.
• Official transcript from a degree-granting institution.
• Most successful applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or better.
• At least two years of work experience is recommended (includes full-time and part-time employment, internships, co-ops and similar experiences).
• Statement of professional goals (approximately 500 words suggested) articulating what attracted you to this program, and how a master's degree in this field will benefit you in your present or future career.
• Resume or curriculum vitae.

Requirements for International Students

Along with the general admission requirements above, the following must be provided by prospective international students:

• Demonstration of English Language Proficiency. Some examples of demonstrated English language proficiency include minimum score requirements for the following standardized tests:
  • Paper-based TOEFL: 550
  • Internet-based TOEFL: 80
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • PTE: 54
• Academic records, in English translation, for postsecondary studies outside the United States. These must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted. 

Application and Assistantship Deadlines

Students should apply for the fall semester by August 6 and the spring semester by January 7.

Review Process

Applications are reviewed by program directors.

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Scholarships and Financial Aid

For priority consideration for graduate assistantship, apply by Feb. 1. 

For more information, visit the student financial services office online at http://finaid.slu.edu.  

1. Graduates will be able to evaluate and manage various information sources and their relevance to strategic intelligence and translate that information into actionable outcomes.
2. Graduates will be able to perform sophisticated analysis and evaluations of possible threats through demonstrated technical expertise and application of conceptual skills.

Continuation Standards

Students must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 in all graduate/professional courses.

Roadmaps are recommended semester-by-semester plans of study for programs and assume full-time enrollment unless otherwise noted.  

Courses and milestones designated as critical (marked with !) must be completed in the semester listed to ensure a timely graduation. Transfer credit may change the roadmap.

This roadmap should not be used in the place of regular academic advising appointments. All students are encouraged to meet with their advisor/mentor each semester.  Requirements, course availability and sequencing are subject to change.

Apply for Admission

For additional admission questions, please call 314-526-2825 or email sps@slu.edu.