Intelligence Analyst
Criminal Justice & Protective Services
A program focusing on the preparation of law enforcement personnel to perform intelligence and surveillance operations and to analyze and use data collected via such operations.
What Intelligence Analysts Do
A program focusing on the preparation of law enforcement personnel to perform intelligence and surveillance operations and to analyze and use data collected via such operations.
Common Tasks
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
- 1Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as criminal law, defensive policing, and investigation techniques.
- 2Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.
- 3Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
- 4Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
- 5Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
What You'll Learn
Types of Intelligence Analysts
Work Environment
Locations
- • Police departments and sheriff’s offices
- • Federal, state, and local government agencies
- • Fusion centers and intelligence units
- • Colleges and universities
- • Crime analysis and investigative offices
Schedule
Most roles follow a set schedule with moderate time pressure, though major incidents can require extended hours or on-call availability.
Physical Demands
Work is largely desk-based with significant sitting and computer use, plus occasional standing and movement during briefings or field coordination. Physical strain is generally moderate, but repetitive motions and long screen time are common.
Salary & Job Outlook
National Employment: 134,100 jobs
Top Paying States
Why Demand May Grow
Growing volumes of digital evidence, cybercrime, and complex financial crimes increase the need for analysts who can find patterns and support investigations. Agencies are also investing more in data-driven policing, threat assessment, and information sharing across jurisdictions.
Skills You'll Need
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Meaningful work supporting public safety and investigations
- • Strong pay potential in investigative and specialized roles
- • High use of technology and analytical problem-solving
- • Skills transfer well to many government and security careers
- • Opportunities to specialize (cyber, financial, GIS, link analysis)
Cons
- • Exposure to sensitive or disturbing case material
- • Strict rules around confidentiality and documentation
- • Time pressure during active investigations or critical incidents
- • Background checks and clearance requirements can be demanding
- • Work can be sedentary and screen-heavy
Common Questions About the Intelligence Analyst Trade
Ready to Get Started?
Not Sure This Trade is Right?
Take our free career quiz to discover trades that match your interests and skills.
Take the Career Quiz