Apply Now for All Academic Programs

October 24, 2023

NIU is the Intelligence Community’s accredited, federal degree-granting institution attended by intelligence and national security professionals from across the federal government who study and pursue solutions to the toughest national security challenges. NIU’s unique and integrated academic experience allows students to learn and research in a classified environment guided by faculty with real-world experience and an array of academic backgrounds.

NIU is accepting applications for the full-time (one year), part-time (two year), and certificate (one year) programs.

All applicants must have an active TS//SCI clearance at the time of application and throughout the program. NIU programs are only available to federal government civilians or military personnel, contractors cannot apply. For more information, please visit the Eligibility Criteria and FAQ pages. 

  • Study like you work: Use NIU’s classified environment to conduct academic research and discovery into what happens each day in SCIFs across the intelligence enterprise.
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  • Get to know the mission and its people: Experience a unique education with an “insider’s perspective” that develops a deep, foundational understanding of the nation’s intelligence enterprise.

  • Pursue truth wherever it leads: Engage in focused study and high impact research on relevant topics and emerging issues to develop solutions to the nation’s greatest security challenges.

  • Don’t settle for status quo: Gain the tools, knowledge, and personal networks that empower leaders to drive innovation and integrate the intelligence enterprise.
  • In-Residence (Full-time): Requires agency nomination by your organization’s training office or detailer/branch manager/function manager and allows for degree completion in 11 months (July-June) at ICC-B.
  • Non-Residence (Part-time): This does not require agency nomination and is available at ICC-B.
    • Evening: Students attend class evening and typically complete the degree in two years. This format does not require a nomination from the student’s organization and is available at ICC-B.
    • ICC-Bethesda Day: Based on course availability, part-time students can attend class during the day at ICC-B, but it is the student’s responsibility to ensure management approval. The supervisor approval form must be submitted with the application to attend day classes at ICC-B.
    • Monthly: Students attend classes one weekend a month (full day on Saturday and Sunday) for two years along with a two-week intensive summer session at ICC-B. Reservist/National Guard applicants must be nominated by their unit and must submit a signed memorandum by an O-6 in their chain of command with their application.

NIU will be hosting virtual open house sessions in the coming months to discuss the application process, academic programs, and answer any questions. If you would like to receive invites for these sessions, please email NIU_Engagement@niu.odni.gov using your .gov/.mil emai

Please visit Admissions for the applications, application package requirements, and application submission instructions. 

For questions about the application or admission requirements please email NIU_Admissions@niu.odni.gov.

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