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Sociology, political science, and history are among the classes to take while training to become a spy, along with technical classes that will broaden your skill set. If you can’t add a minor or double major to your program, think about tailoring your elective classes to relevant fields instead. Agencies value both the focused education of your major and the broader education of general electives, with various degree programs providing special advantages for various spy roles. Criminal justice is the most common area of study, but those interested in becoming federal agents also frequently choose computer science, finance, law, psychology, and international studies. You will typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in order for a federal agency to consider you for an intelligence officer position. Checking backgrounds also identifies any potential red flags that outside actors could use against you because a spy may receive high clearance levels. First off, maintaining a spotless record demonstrates a history of sound judgment, which may point to your effectiveness as a field agent. These background checks serve two purposes for the agencies. Maintain a clean recordĪll candidates must pass a demanding screening process in order to work for a federal agency.
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Due to the intense competition for spy positions, it is beneficial to start preparing as soon as possible. How to become a spyĪlthough some spies start their careers through recruitment, if you meet the minimal requirements, you can also apply with an agency. By gathering and analyzing information that furthers their country’s goals, spies defend the interests of the country they work for. Although each agency has different formal titles, most of what a spy does is the same across agencies. Responsibilities for a spy include: What is a spy?Ī government employee who works for an intelligence or security agency is known as a spy, also known as an intelligence officer. Be able to write clearly and accurately.ĭespite how spies are portrayed in the media, which emphasizes the exciting action, a spy’s work involves long hours spent performing routine business tasks like filing paperwork, conducting interviews, and creating reports.Have a strong interest in international affairs.Possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.Candidates for CIA agent jobs in clandestine services must:
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