Modern investigative and intelligence work relies on more than gathering information.
Professionals across enforcement, safeguarding, regulatory and security environments are increasingly required to interpret complex material, evaluate reliability, challenge assumptions and provide defensible reasoning to support decisions.
The University of Buckingham’s Level 4 Intelligence Analyst Apprenticeship provides a structured professional development route for practitioners working within intelligence functions, not just those with an ‘Analyst’ job title.
Developed with employers and aligned to the national Intelligence Analyst occupational standard, the programme strengthens structured thinking, evidential reasoning and professional communication skills and is applied directly to operational contexts rather than abstract academic theory.
Flexible National Delivery, with entry points in April & October
The programme is designed for working professionals across England and is delivered through weekly live online sessions with two in-person University visits during the programme.
This blended approach allows participants to study alongside full-time employment while still benefiting from face-to-face professional discussion and contextual learning.
The apprenticeship is open to organisations and individuals working in England. For those outside England, you may still be eligible for apprenticeship funding or can apply on a commercial basis.
About the Programme
The Intelligence Analyst Apprenticeship provides a structured route for intelligence practitioners to build recognised professional competence while continuing in employment.
Learners develop the ability to:
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Apply structured analytical techniques
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Evaluate intelligence reliability and evidential strength
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Produce defensible analytical assessments
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Identify risk, threat and harm
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Communicate intelligence to decision-makers
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Challenge bias and assumption
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Work ethically and lawfully within investigative frameworks
The programme is suitable for professionals who gather, interpret, or use information to support decision-making across sectors including law enforcement, regulatory bodies, financial investigation, counter-fraud, corporate security, and public sector intelligence functions.
The programme is designed not only for analysts, but also for investigators, intelligence officers, researchers, caseworkers, and professionals whose roles include developing intelligence responsibilities.
Programme Delivery
The University of Buckingham delivers the programme in partnership with experienced intelligence practitioners Mr Simon Butterworth and Ms Sharon Connally, bringing significant operational credibility to the learning experience.
Fees and Funding
The programme is funded via the Apprenticeship Levy and costs £11,000.
The apprentice does not pay for the training personally. Funding is accessed by the employer through either their Apprenticeship Levy or government co-investment.
Important notes
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Apprenticeships funded through the English system require the apprentice’s main place of work to be in England.
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Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland operate separate apprenticeship arrangements.
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Employers and providers must follow the national funding rules applicable to the apprentice’s start date.
Further information on eligibility, employer contributions and funding conditions can be found in the official government guidance: Apprenticeship funding rules (GOV.UK)
Organisations or individuals wishing to discuss suitability and entry routes are welcome to contact the University of Buckingham Apprenticeships Team.
To find out more:
Programme Information
https://www.buckingham.ac.uk/apprenticeships/intelligence-analyst
Contact the University of Buckingham Apprenticeships Team: apprenticeships@buckingham.ac.uk