Open Source Intelligence (OSINT)

Catalog description

This course provides an intensive introduction to open source intelligence and its related disciplines. Students will examine the definition, nature, and development of open source intelligence (OSINT), including its policy considerations, management practices, and current trends within the intelligence community. Emphasis is placed on understanding how publicly available data and data collection methods contribute to producing actionable intelligence that supports national security objectives. The course also surveys OSINT-focused organizations, challenges, reform efforts, and future prospects, preparing students to evaluate information collected from diverse sources and apply foundational OSINT techniques in professional intelligence environments.