GOVT 494 Intelligence Studies Capstone

This capstone course is designed to synthesize all elements of intelligence studies into a final, interactive course and exercise. In addition to considering contemporary issues in intelligence and security, students apply knowledge gained throughout their undergraduate coursework on government, politics, economics, national security, and other foundational concepts to demonstrate and further develop their comprehension of the expansive topic of intelligence. 

The purpose of this course is to understand the process for developing a comprehensive intelligence product which includes preparation of the environment; assessment of entities within that environment; solutions for support to allied activities; and, converting intelligence into operations through targeting. This course takes the lessons learned and gained throughout their undergraduate coursework, and incorporates it into a comprehensive exercise. This course helps the student to realize the importance of their role as an intelligence-related specialist, and demonstrates how critical they are in helping their leadership to make effective operational decisions.  

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After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to provide a thread in response to the provided prompt for each Discussion. Each thread must be 500 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 other classmates’ threads. Each reply must be 250 words.

The student will write a 19-page research-based paper in current APA format that corresponds with a notional conflict scenario and focuses on performing JIPOE and DIME analysis; recommending solutions to fill intelligence-related gaps; and generating a list of prioritized targets for operational effect. While there is no requirement to use references from your Learn items, you will be expected to demonstrate a thorough understanding of concepts presented in those items.

Research Paper: Intelligence Capstone Introduction Assignment

The student will write a 4-page paper, describing a current scenario, as well as potential conflicts and concerns within the scenario region. The student will provide his or her understanding of the general posture and capabilities of friendly, enemy, and neutral components.

Research Paper: Intelligence Processes – JIPOE & DIME Assignment

The student will write 4-page paper, providing an initial overview of the diplomatic, informational, military, and economic situation in the chosen region. Additionally, the student will describe the individual governments and national statuses; military capabilities; intelligence agencies and capabilities; and existing threats for each nation.

Research Paper: Intelligence Agencies, Disciplines, and Domains Assignment

The student will write a 4-page paper, describing the domains in which each nation in the scenario is capable of operating; the intelligence capabilities and gaps of those nations; and how the U.S. could fill or exploit the defined gaps should an intervention have to occur.

Research Paper: Part 1 – Targeting Assignment

The student will write a 2-page paper, listing the potential target systems and target system components for targeting consideration.

Research Paper: Part 2 – Targeting Assignment

The student will write a 2-page paper, listing potential targets and target elements for targeting consideration.

Research Paper: Intelligence Capstone Final Assignment

The student will write the final 3-pages of the Research Paper, resulting in a 19-page Research Paper. For the final three pages, the student will create two sub-sections, one of which will include a list of Priority Intelligence Requirements (PIR) and one of which will include a prioritized list of recommended targets for command approval.