International Security and Intelligence
Programme and Conference

 

Introduction

This four-week summer programme offers a unique opportunity to work with leading practitioners and academics from the security and intelligence communities in the delightful setting of Emmanuel College. Chaired by Sir Richard Dearlove (formerly head of MI6, Britain’s Secret Intelligence Service) and convened by Professor Michael Goodman and Dr David Gioe, the International Security and Intelligence Programme (ISI) will consider the claims of state secrecy, the threat of nuclear proliferation, of cyber attack, of terrorism, the problems generated by the demand for regional security and the security challenges of revolutions and governing diversity. Intelligence collection, analysis of the product, and its dissemination to customers remain at the core of the intelligence cycle. Counterintelligence and covert action play more opaque but still vital roles at the heart of the nation state. Understanding these perspectives, what intelligence can achieve, but also its limitations, are major Programme and Conference themes. With its emphasis on contemporary and future challenges and practice, ISI will appeal to those with an academic or professional interest in intelligence and contemporary threats.
 

Academics

ISI models its approach to teaching and learning on that offered at Cambridge. Through lectures, seminars, a 2-day conference and ‘supervisions’ (see below) providing a minimum of 50hrs contact time, ISI students will explore the role of the intelligence and security agencies in a democratic society, applying the enduring principles of intelligence and security to cutting-edge problems. The 50hrs contact time comprises:

• 10hrs of key theme lectures

• 10hrs of key theme seminars

• 7.5hrs of special subject lectures

• 6.25hrs of supervisions

• 1.25hr essay writing lecture

• 10hrs of key note conference lectures and panel discussion

As part of the student's participation in the program, they will write a 3,500 word research paper on a topic relating to international security and intelligence. Students will be allocated to a 'supervision' group with an academic who has background in the topic. These supervisions hold about 6 students. Some examples of pervious research paper topics include:

• Intelligence history/the US and UK intelligence communities
• Nuclear proliferation/CBRN issues
• Human intelligence and tradecraft/intelligence in the military context
• Cyber and information operations/foreign influence/covert action
• Regional security topics covering the Middle East, Africa, and Asia
• Islamist and other extremist terrorism and violent non-state actors
• Intelligence analysis, liaison, oversight, policymaking, and accountability / ethical dimensions
• Russian and European security and intelligence issues
• Security cooperation (especially in the Global South)

All lectures, seminars and supervisions are held under the Chatham House rule. This means that students can use the information or opinions shared/provided, but cannot attribute the information or give any identifying information about who shared the information or opinion.

Students completing this program will be awarded the equivalent of POL 152MTR towards their degree at Catholic U. For more information on the academic program, click here.

Conference

As a part of the student's participation in the academic program, they will attend the Cambridge Security Initiative Conference, entitled "Intelligence and National Security in a Changing World." The Conference addresses the most pressing security challenges facing governments, private industry, and even private citizens in a globalised and interconnected world. Attendees can expect to hear about Great Power challenges to global order, such as those offered by Russia and China. The ever-present issues of global instability, terrorism, and regional conflict will be considered alongside the impacts of cutting-edge technological innovation, nuclear proliferation and cyber operations. With panels and distinguished keynote speakers moderated by ISI teaching faculty, the conference offers a chance for attendees to hear first-hand insights (under the Chatham House rule) from former senior officials, intelligence and security practitioners and from academic experts.

Accommodation & Meals

Founded in 1584, Emmanuel College offers classical architecture, and historic grounds, complete with quiet courts and beautiful gardens. Emmanuel College's central location provides the ideal base from which to explore the historic City of Cambridge.

Single occupancy accommodation is offered for the duration of the Programme within Emmanuel College's ancient city centre site. Linens and towels are provided and facilities include shared bathrooms, communal 'gyp rooms' suitable for making tea, coffee, and simple meals, study and social spaces, a cafe, bar and Dining Hall, laundry facilities, 24/7 staffed security and secure WIFI.

Included in the CUAbroad program fee is breakfast Sunday-Friday, and 10 formal dinner halls.

Scholarships

Applicants to this program are encouraged to apply for the Sir Richard Dearlove Scholarship, which is specifically dedicated to this program. Other scholarship opportunities can be found on the Office of Education Abroad scholarships website.