Many people are drawn to careers in intelligence because they are portrayed as being filled with intrigue and excitement. In truth, not all intelligence jobs are like those you see in the movies - especially entry level intelligence positions. Because the intelligence community is so broad (seventeen separate organizations) and the jobs themselves so varied, the work settings are also just as diverse. A person in an entry level intelligence role could find themselves in a lab, in an office, in the field, or even on Capitol Hill.

What this means is that no matter your background or your interests, you have the opportunity to be hired for an entry level intelligence job if that is your goal. The key is figuring out where you would best fit in and then pursuing the education you need to stand out among other applicants.

Entry Level Intelligence Opportunities

Many of the intelligence organizations have special entry level intelligence programs for new graduates. This includes internships, fellowships, scholarships, recruitment events, and special programs for ex-military. Here is a list of a few of the entry level intelligence opportunities that are offered:

-- State Department: The Stay in School Program allows students to work part-time during school terms and full-time during periods of vacation.

-- Defense Intelligence Agency: The DIA conducts many recruitment events around the country including at job fairs and colleges.

-- Federal Bureau of Investigations: Outstanding students interested in becoming special agents can apply for the Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) Program.

-- National Security Agency: For those transitioning from the military, the NSA has a program that allows you to keep your benefits and apply time served towards retirement even if you are hired for an entry level intelligence position.

-- Department of Homeland Security: The Office of Intelligence & Analysis participates in the Pat Roberts Intelligence Scholars Program (PRISP) which offers entry level intelligence professionals with certain educational backgrounds $25,000 stipends.

The above are just a few of the many programs that the federal government has for individuals who are motivated to become intelligence professionals. Many of these are competitive, however, so it helps to earn a degree that shows your determination to join the intelligence community. Even if you already have a degree in a certain field, going back to school to earn an intelligence specific degree will greatly increase your chances.

When Only the CIA Will Do

Even though there are 16 other players in the intelligence community, some individuals have set their sights on getting a job at the CIA. If you are one of those people, then an intelligence degree program may help you achieve your goals. A high quality bachelor's or master's degree in intelligence or counterintelligence is what many people may call "going to a CIA school." There are a few colleges that offer these types of programs, but you have to make sure that the curriculum is on par with what a CIA school would offer if there were such a thing.

Examples of courses that are essential to you receiving the type of training to prepare you for a career in the CIA include:
-- Intelligence Collection
-- Counterintelligence
-- Propaganda and Disinformation
-- Clandestine Communications
-- Protection Studies and Counterterrorism Studies

Once you are enrolled in a CIA school - type program, you can increase your chances of getting a job at the CIA by applying for one of their internship programs. They have several student positions such as the National Clandestine Service Internship Program. If you are accepted this CIA school program, you will have the opportunity to work at the CIA making a competitive salary while still working on your degree. Additionally, once you graduate, you will be considered for full time employment.