Becoming a military intelligence analyst can be an excellent career for those driven to translate complex information into understandable reports that help the military identify potential threats. Anyone interested in intelligence analysis as a military career will need to understand data analysis and potential security issues, as well as the ways that data helps the U.S. military best use its resources.
To prepare for this crucial role, many future intelligence analysts consider earning an advanced degree that can help them become leaders in intelligence and security.
Military intelligence analysts evaluate data to determine security threats. These threats can include military conflicts, terrorism, propaganda and misinformation. Analysts use extensive computer systems, as well as their cybersecurity and networking knowledge, to analyze potential cyber threats. They also determine which threats are legitimate, helping inform where the military should direct its attention. They use military symbology to help create maps, charts and other forms of visual information.
Military intelligence analysts also study how foreign entities and nations mobilize their armed forces and execute military tactics. They are well-versed in military strategy and combine that knowledge with data analysis to help develop tactics. They may also be responsible for giving briefs on their findings and providing reports.
These intelligence analysts frequently work with time-sensitive information and must decipher complex information to find threats. This often contributes to critical decisions about how missions are planned and executed, which makes intelligence analysts a critical component of the military apparatus. Depending on their rank, they may work with highly confidential information and require specific security clearance levels.
As active duty service members, military intelligence analysts can work in any of the six branches of the U.S. military: the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force and Coast Guard.
Intelligence analysts typically work on military bases or on ships. While they may be assigned anywhere in the world, they are typically in office settings, working with various intelligence systems and databases.
Becoming a military intelligence analyst requires enlisting in the U.S. armed forces, which means meeting the following standard requirements:
Additionally, the role requires passing the skilled technical portion of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test with a score of 101. This test is meant to gauge knowledge of general sciences, verbal expression, mechanical comprehension and mathematics. Additionally, analysts must pass an extensive background check to ensure they can safely hold high-security clearances when dealing with confidential security information.
While military intelligence analysts don’t require an education beyond high school or a GED, an advanced degree such as a Master of Arts in Intelligence and Security Studies offers valuable expertise. Courses covering cybersecurity threats, counter-terrorism strategies, cryptography, and national and foreign conflicts can all benefit applicants for positions in military intelligence analysis.
These courses may also help individuals stand out to superior military officers and could allow for a more rapid climb up the ranks, potentially leading to higher salaries. Additionally, understanding the different types of intelligence analysis allows graduates to pursue roles outside of the military, such as information security analyst or computer security specialist.
Military intelligence analysts should develop a few key skills, including:
The median annual salary for intelligence analysts in the U.S. Army was around $54,100 as of March 2024, according to the compensation website Payscale. Additionally, the military offers bonuses and considerable other benefits, from room and board to medical care.
Job outlook for intelligence analysts in the military will likely vary depending on the military’s needs but is likely to grow. While the BLS does not account for military positions, it does note that information security analysts, a similar position, are projected to grow by 33 percent between 2023 and 2033. This projection is based on the increased frequency and threat of cyberattacks, and military intelligence analysts may see positive growth for similar reasons.
Consider the benefits of Augusta University Online’s Master of Arts in Intelligence and Security Studies degree, which can help students build a career in strategic defense as a military intelligence analyst. The program offers courses that teach students about intelligence and security policies, the capabilities and roles of the U.S. intelligence community, and counter-terrorism strategies.
AU Online also offers concentrations in technical intelligence and social influence, adding additional options to the program. With the flexibility an online degree offers, active military members can pursue advanced education to move up the ranks.
Take your next career step with Augusta University Online.
Recommended Readings
Employee Cybersecurity Awareness Training Resources
Handling Cyber Conflict in Military Operations
Security Architect: Salary and Job Description
Sources:
Chron, “What Rank in the Navy Will You Get With a Master’s Degree?”
Intel.gov, Intelligence Analyst
National Guard, “Military Intelligence”
Payscale, Average Intelligence Analyst Salary at U.S. Army
U.S. Army, ASVAB Test and Preparation
U.S. Army, Intelligence Analyst
U.S. Army, Money & Pay Charts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Information Security Analysts
