An Information Technology Degree -- Your Ticket to the FBI?

By Sarah Clark
Career Colleges Columnist

When it comes to hiring new employees, the FBI is irrefutably among the most selective employers. Only those with specific credentials are considered for their agent training program, and a degree in information technology just happens to be one of them.

Not since the Cold War has the role of the FBI agent been more important. The war on terrorism has ushered in a new era of responsibility for the government – one that requires diligent, careful investigative work, and close collaboration with other defense groups and intelligence agencies operating under the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of State, and the Department of Defense.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that only those with at least one of the following qualifications can be considered for employment as a federal agent: a college degree in accounting, electrical engineering, law, or information technology; fluency in a foreign language; or three years of relevant full-time work experience. Great news for IT professionals-in-training.

Information Technology Programs

You'll need a discrete skill set if you want to land a career in national intelligence, and more agents than ever before hone their abilities through formal IT degree programs. One of the most valuable skills IT programs teach is how to ensure information shared over a network is secure – a challenge the FBI can appreciate. You may also learn how to create technology that allows agents to eavesdrop on online child predators or alleged terrorists.

Information technology professionals enjoy a wealth of opportunity beyond government agencies, particularly among defense contractors. Either way, an IT program can lead to a fascinating career in national intelligence.

About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer specializing in career development and postsecondary education.

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