Oxford, Miss. — The University of South Florida’s School of Information recently strengthened its presence in the intelligence and national security education space by participating in a recruitment event at the University of Mississippi.
The event, organized by the Center for Intelligence and Security Studies at Ole Miss, brought together students interested in intelligence, cybersecurity, and national security careers. Representatives from USF met with undergraduate students to discuss advanced academic pathways and professional opportunities in the intelligence field.
Dr. Steve “Scuba” Gary, a professor of instruction in USF’s Strategic and Cyber Intelligence Programs, represented the university and provided detailed information on two graduate degrees offered through the School of Information: the Master of Science in Intelligence Studies and the Master of Science in Cybersecurity Intelligence and Information Security.
Engaging Future Intelligence Professionals
Approximately 19 Ole Miss undergraduates attended the recruitment fair and spoke directly with faculty members about graduate education options and career preparation. Conversations focused on how intelligence-focused graduate programs can support careers in areas such as national security analysis, cyber threat intelligence, law enforcement support, and government or private-sector intelligence roles.
Dr. Gary said the event offered valuable insight into the interests and ambitions of students considering careers in intelligence-related fields.
“The students we met were highly motivated and eager to learn how graduate education can position them for impactful careers,” Gary said. “Events like this allow us to share how USF’s programs combine rigorous academics with practical application.”
Programs Designed for Modern Intelligence Careers
USF’s intelligence graduate programs emphasize a multidisciplinary approach to intelligence and security challenges. Coursework covers topics such as open-source intelligence, threat assessment, data-driven analysis, cyber operations, and investigative methodologies.
Students also benefit from instruction by faculty with professional experience in intelligence, defense, and cybersecurity fields. In addition, the programs provide access to professional networks and career support resources designed to help graduates transition into the workforce.
Expanding National Outreach
The recruitment fair is part of broader efforts by the Center for Intelligence and Security Studies to connect students with educational opportunities aligned with national security and intelligence careers. For many participants, the event marked their first exposure to USF’s intelligence-focused graduate offerings.
USF officials say outreach efforts like this one are central to the School of Information’s mission to attract students from across the country and prepare the next generation of intelligence professionals to meet evolving global security challenges.
