Program Overview

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Introduction to the Intelligence and Security Studies PhD

The Brunel Centre for Intelligence and Security Studies Team conducts research in most areas connected with intelligence organisation, management, and analysis. Members of BCISS from other departments contribute to research in fields such as law, engineering, and cryptography.

Research Profile

The team's expertise includes:

• Political sociology as it applies to institution-building and organisational design of intelligence agencies and communities
• Theories of 'intelligence culture' and the practice of intelligence around the world
• Military doctrine of intelligence, with a focus on UK practices
• Analytical methods: the tools and practices of intelligence analysts
• Intelligence history: how states have organised and practised intelligence in the period since the bureaucratisation of intelligence, and earlier

Research Journey

This course can be studied 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time, starting in January, April, or October.

Research Support

Excellent research support and training are provided through the Graduate School, including workshops, online training, coaching, and events. The researcher development programme (RDP) offers workshops and seminars in areas such as progression, research management, research dissemination, and careers and personal development.

Library Services

Brunel's Library is open 24 hours a day, has 400,000 books and 250,000 ebooks, and an annual budget of almost £2m. Subject information Specialists train students in the latest technology, digital literacy, and digital dissemination of scholarly outputs.

Careers and Your Future

You will receive tailored careers support during your PhD and for up to three years after you complete your research at Brunel. The Professional Development Centre runs a varied programme of careers events throughout the academic year.

UK Entry Requirements

The general University entrance requirement for registration for a research degree is normally a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (1st or 2:1). An interview will be required as part of the admissions process.

EU and International Entry Requirements

If you require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK, you must prove knowledge of the English language. The English language requirements are:

• IELTS: 6.5 (min 6 in all areas)
• Pearson: 59 (59 in all subscores)
• BrunELT: 63% (min 58% in all areas)
• TOEFL: 90 (min 20 in all)

Fees and Funding

2025/6 entry

• International: £22,320 full-time, £11,160 part-time
• UK: £5,006 full-time, £2,500 part-time Fees quoted are per year and are subject to an annual increase.

Scholarships and Bursaries

Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students, including the Doctoral Student Loans of up to £25,000 for UK and EU students, and funding available through the Research Councils. Many international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.

Available Scholarships

• Brunel Graduate Discount
• Doctoral Researcher / PhD Studentships
• Doctoral Researcher Funding Opportunities

Location of Study

The study location is Brunel University London, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 3PH.

Related Courses

• Politics and History PhD
• Sociology and Communication PhD
• Law PhD