MA Covert Action, HUMINT and the Psychology of Intelligence Elicitation by Research at University of Buckingham

This programme aims to offer insight into hitherto closed and sensitive areas of security and intelligence practice within both western democracies and authoritarian regimes. Emphasis is placed on relating academic and historical analyses to contemporary problems and policy questions, especially in the UK, but also to western states in general, using a unique degree of practitioner-led expertise.

Faculty: School of Humanities and Social Sciences  |  Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time  |  Study mode: full-time, part-time (online)  |  Intake: September 2026, January 2027  |  Location: Buckingham, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Enhances opportunities to develop a professional career in the intelligence and security sectors An opportunity to undertake a research project in an area of the student’s choosing Outstanding flexibility – study offered part time and full time AND by way of distance learning The programme welcomes both holders of first degrees or those who have the relevant professional experience Pre-recorded lectures enable the student to decide the best time to study Learning supported by former practitioners and leading international experts who work with NGO’s Governments and security sectors worldwide Programme qualifies for ELCAS funding Access to BUCSIS sponsored national intelligence conferences Opportunity to study at the world-leading Buckingham Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies (BUCSIS) The programme comprises of three terms of seminars of nine weeks each, covering: Covert Action, Human Intelligence (HUMINT), and the psychology of intelligence elicitation.

Career pathways

Our Buckingham University Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies graduates have gone on to further study at PhD level and secured / maintained jobs in intelligence and security related positions in the UK and overseas.

Official programme page