How to Become a CIA Agent

Thursday, January 6, 2011 posted by Jessica Holloway

How to Become a CIA AgentWondering how to become a CIA agent?

CIA Agents are known for being top-notch spies with glamorous lifestyles. It makes it almost irresistible to not apply to become a CIA Agent. However, there is more to that.

Many CIA employees work in analytical positions, or positions in language, science, engineering or technology. It’s best that should you want to become a CIA agent, that you master one of those positions in your college education.

It takes a certain type of person to become a CIA Agent. You must have leadership qualities, integrity, analytical ability, curiosity, and a drive to succeed and move up within the organization.

Earn Your Criminal Justice Degree Online

Although you can earn your degree in a number of fields and still qualify for a career in the CIA, a degree in criminal justice will help prepare you for a career in any criminal justice field.

Right now, the top 2 universities offering accredited criminal justice degrees online are Arizona State University and Colorado Tech University.

Arizona State University

How to Become a CIA Agent

Arizona State University is regionally accredited, the highest level of accreditation possible in the United States.

Arizona State University offers a number of online degrees that could help prepare you for a career in law enforcement.

U.S. News and World Report ranks Arizona State University in its top tier of U.S. universities, and Forbes considers ASU among America’s best colleges.

Colorado Tech University

How to Become a CIA Agent

Colorado Tech University is regionally accredited, the highest level of accreditation possible in the United States.

Online Criminal Justice Degrees:

Earn your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree online in as little as 17 months at Colorado Tech University.

The CIA is a tight knit agency thanks to the academic environment and the nature of the work performed in the CIA. They also have their own Center with a food court, fitness facilities, formal gardens, walking paths, store, recreational clubs and artwork!

To apply for a position within the CIA, it’s best to visit their official website (cia.gov) and view their career opportunities. They also have a great FAQ page if you require further information. The CIA does advise you that having good grades, fluency in a foreign language, and motivation are strong points in becoming a successful CIA agent.  You must be a citizen of the United States to apply to work for the CIA, and while an undergraduate degree isn’t mandatory, they strongly advise it.

Most opportunities will be available to you if a degree is earned, especially an advanced degree (graduate degree, masters degree, PhD). You must also be 18 years of age to apply for a career at the CIA, and you will have to pass several tests and possibly even an exam.

Careers at the CIA can be applied for online through their official website (cia.gov).