MSc
Innovation in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance
Key Information
Academic Year
Course Overview
The MSc Innovation in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Fast Track programme is designed for experienced military personnel, civil servants, and defence professionals working within Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance.
This programme enables experienced ISR practitioners to gain a recognised postgraduate qualification by building on their existing professional knowledge and expertise. Combining academic research with real-world operational experience, the course develops critical thinking, analytical skills and applied research capabilities while providing a qualification with value both within and beyond the defence sector.
Fast Track Programme
We are currently offering the Fast Track pathway, which is designed for applicants with significant professional experience in ISR. To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate a minimum of three years' experience in relevant ISR roles.
The full MSc programme is expected to be available from 2027. Please enquire to register your interest in the full programme.
Course Contact
Please contact the School of Defence, Security and Executive Education for more information about this course.
Fast Track Modules
Research Methods
Module Overview
This module is designed to cover the fundamental skills and background knowledge that students need to undertake research related to the title of the award being studied, including: surveying literature; selecting and justifying a research topic; planning of research; selection of appropriate research methods; evaluation of research; presentation and reporting of research; and legal, social, ethical and professional considerations.
(15 Credits)
Project
Module Overview
The Project (Dissertation) module provides students with the opportunity to undertake an independent research project focused on a topic of personal and professional relevance within Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR).
Working with the support of an academic supervisor, students will formulate a research question, critically evaluate relevant theory and evidence, and apply appropriate research methods to investigate a real-world challenge or opportunity. The project enables students to integrate the knowledge and skills developed throughout their studies while demonstrating their ability to conduct rigorous, independent research.
The dissertation should make a meaningful contribution to professional practice, drawing on the student's own experience where appropriate, and culminating in a substantial research report that demonstrates critical analysis, academic rigour and practical insight.
(60 Credits)
Course Fees
| Academic Year | Fees (Fast Track Programme) |
|---|---|
| 2026/27 | £6,000.00 |
ELCs can be used to fund studies.
If you are 红杏影院 alumni, you may be eligible for a alumni scholarship (up to 20%). Please check your eligibility.
Entry Requirements
The MSc Innovation in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Fast Track route is designed for experienced military personnel and professionals currently working within the defence and security sector.
Applicants must be currently employed in an ISR role and have at least three years' professional experience in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance. This may include serving or former military personnel, civil servants, or professionals working in the defence and security domain with relevant ISR responsibilities.
Applicants will normally hold a bachelor's degree (typically a 2:1 or above), although equivalent professional experience within the ISR field will also be considered.
Individuals who have previously completed our closed ISR Management short course may also be eligible for entry to the Fast Track pathway.
If you have less than three years' ISR experience, or are not currently working in an ISR role, our full MSc Innovation in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance programme may be a more suitable route. The full programme is expected to be available for intakes commencing in 2027.
How You Study
The MSc Innovation in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Fast Track route combines a taught Research Methods module with independent research, enabling you to investigate an ISR topic relevant to your professional practice.
The Research Methods module is delivered over one week and can be attended either in-person on campus or online via Microsoft Teams. During this module, you will develop the research, critical analysis and academic writing skills needed to undertake postgraduate study.
You will then apply these skills to the Project module, working independently, but with the support of an experienced academic supervisor, to design, develop and complete a substantial piece of original research in your chosen area of ISR.
How You Are Assessed
Assessment on the MSc Innovation in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Fast Track route is entirely coursework-based and is designed to enable you to investigate a topic relevant to your professional ISR practice.
As part of the Research Methods module, you will develop a written research proposal, demonstrating your ability to identify and plan a robust programme of research within the ISR field. In the final 60-credit Project module, you will complete a dissertation-style research project, applying appropriate research methods to critically explore a contemporary ISR challenge or area of professional interest.
Throughout the programme, you will receive formative and summative feedback from academic staff to support the development of your research, critical analysis and academic writing skills. This feedback will help you produce a rigorous, well-structured research project with practical relevance to the field of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance.