Master of Science and Technology Intelligence (MSTI)

The Master of Science and Technology Intelligence thesis is a written presentation of original research examining a science and technology intelligence topic within the selected S&T concentration that contributes to the overall knowledge base of the IC.

In MCR 701, all degree candidates are required to form a committee and select an intelligence topic for developing a thesis. In MCR 702, thesis students', in consultation with their committee, develop and obtain approval of their thesis proposal. Thesis proposals should clearly state the nature of the intelligence problem to be addressed, the approach used in addressing the problem, and methods (analytical, observational, statistical, etc.) for data collection and analysis. In MCR 703 students conduct thesis research on their approved thesis topic. Thesis research must be rigorous – demonstrating not only an understanding of the existing literature, but fully and properly applying analytical methodologies that are appropriate to the topic under investigation. An acceptable thesis must be based on sound, valid, and clear argumentation, provide documentation sufficient for the research to be replicated, and contribute to the body of intelligence literature.

All theses will be researched and written under the close guidance of a thesis chair and a reader. The thesis may be classified or unclassified. In MCR 704 students complete and publish their thesis. See the student handbook for an expanded discussion of student thesis requirements.

THESIS COURSE DESCRIPTIONS


MCR 701 Thesis Methodology and Design

This course is designed to prepare students for the graduate-level research and organization needed to complete their graduate thesis. Students will learn and practice the skill of acquiring and synthesizing archival and original research and be introduced to literature reviews, human subjects review, institutional review board procedures, analytical frameworks, and research methodologies. Students will prepare and review each others’ thesis questions, hypotheses, research strategies, and analytical designs. This course provides the student with a starting point for successfully completing a thesis on a national security and intelligence related topic, thus making an important contribution to the body of intelligence knowledge.

MCR 702 Thesis Proposal

Under the thesis chair’s guidance, the student develops the proposal and completes their committee while beginning IRB approval and research. Proposals must be submitted for approval no later than the 5th week of the term and must be approved to complete the course. (Prerequisite: completion of MCR 701 with a “B” or higher)

MCR 703 Thesis Research

Under the thesis chair’s guidance, the student produces a major portion of the thesis draft. The thesis chair, working with the student, will set the deliverables for the course, but, at a minimum, students must show continued progression in research and writing (Prerequisite: completion of MCR 702 with a “B” or higher)

MCR 704 Thesis Completion

Under the thesis chair and reader, the student completes the master’s thesis. (Prerequisite: completion of MCR 703 with a “B” or higher)