Becoming a FBI agent requires knowledge and the ability to use that knowledge to its fullest potential. Many schools offer degrees in criminal justice, a stepping-stone towards learning law enforcement skills used by FBI Special Agents. But why not prepare for the intelligence and counterterrorism priorities of the FBI b y pursuing a more targeting advanced degree?



There are some degrees that can set you that much further apart from anyone else who is trying to become an FBI agent. The FBI needs intelligence analysts, specialists in intelligence and counterintelligence, terrorism and counterterrorism.

The ability to interpret the law and uphold it is an important part of being a FBI agent, but you might be surprised to know that the FBI's top two priorities are to:

1. Protect the United States from terrorist attack

2. Protect the United States against foreign intelligence operations and espionage (source: FBI Quick Facts).

So what can the FBI use? What does the FBI need? And what is the FBI looking for from you? Listed here are a few of the priorities the FBI maintains to accomplish its mission and areas of knowledge that you should consider when deciding on what type of education you might need to launch a career with the FBI.

Protect the United States from Terrorist Attack - Knowledge about intelligence management, terrorism and counterterrorism play a big role in the ability to prevent terrorist attacks. A degree in one of these fields will strengthen your role as a FBI agent.

Intelligence management involves a complete understanding of the intelligence cycle. The ability to collect, analyze and disseminate information about national security threats is an invaluable intelligence skill. To effectively prevent terrorism, an understanding of terrorist organizations and how they operate is also critical to the FBI's mission. Counterterrorism involves the ability to develop and execute strategies that deter and prevent terrorist attacks.

Protect the United States against Foreign Intelligence Operations and Espionage - Because the FBI is the lead US agency for investigating intelligence activities on US soil, a background in counterintelligence could be looked upon favorably by the FBI. Developing knowledge of foreign intelligence agencies and terrorist groups is a considerable asset that supports the FBI's mission to protect and defend the United States against terrorist and foreign intelligence threats.

Upgrade Technology to Successfully Perform the FBI's Mission - The ability to understand and implement the newest technology in intelligence collection will be a valuable asset to perform the FBI's mission. Upgrades in surveillance technologies are always being made. With an understanding of what surveillance technologies are out there and the basic functions of these technologies, an FBI Agent can achieve objectives with more accuracy at a faster rate.

Uphold and Enforce the Criminal Laws of the United States - FBI agents work together with local law enforcement to enforce the law. Whether preventing organized crime, combating public corruption or protecting civil rights, the FBI works in every capacity to uphold US laws.

Many FBI positions require advanced education; for example, without at least a bachelor's degree, the FBI will not consider an applicant for a Special Agent career path. The FBI is a prestigious part of the strategic service industry that holds high standards to all who apply. Knowledge in any one of these fields can help establish a career in the FBI or any other part of the strategic security industry.