Open Source Intelligence Courses - Abertay University

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) from both practical and theoretical perspectives. It equips students with a deep understanding of the conceptual, historical, and intellectual foundations of OSINT, alongside the modern tools, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) employed by today's OSINT practitioners.
 
Throughout the course, students will be introduced to the ethical and legal considerations inherent to OSINT investigations and learn to navigate the complexities of online intelligence gathering. Practical components include advanced search engine operations, personal and operational security (PERSEC/OPSEC), dark web research, and intelligence analysis. The course also highlights the growing importance of OSINT in national security and counterterrorism, as well as future trends in the field.
 
By the end of the module, students will have acquired both the theoretical grounding, and the practical skills needed for roles that demand online investigative expertise, such as law enforcement, intelligence analysis, cyber security, digital forensics, and corporate investigations.

 
Examples of practical TTPs:

Advanced search engine operation
Personal security enhancing technologies
Intelligence analysis
Dark web research and analysis
Each week will feature engaging lectures and hands-on labs designed to build a robust skill set, from advanced search engine operations to developing an analytical mindset. The course concludes with an exploration of future trends in OSINT, preparing students to navigate and leverage emerging technologies.
  
Learning Hours and style
150 Hours on learning for a 15-credit module over an 8 week course period.
The course will included all pre-recorded lectures to be studied in the learners own time and virtual labs.  
 
Who is it for? 
This course is designed for individuals interested in roles that require significant online investigation, such as those in law enforcement, intelligence analysis, cyber security, digital forensics, fraud detection, corporate investigations, or research roles within government or private sectors. The course covers investigations centred around individuals, organisations, or technical targets, equipping students with the necessary skills for these diverse career paths. 
 
How is it assessed and what certifications will I receive? 
 
Assessment for this module is designed to provide both formative and summative evaluations of students’ knowledge and skills. Students will participate in weekly labs that offer hands-on experience with OSINT tools and techniques, reinforcing the theoretical knowledge covered in lectures. Each week, students will also complete a summative quiz to assess their understanding of the material covered, allowing for continuous progress tracking throughout the course.

Successful completion of the module will provide a solid foundation for careers in intelligence analysis, cyber security, law enforcement, and related fields.

Both public and private sector employers are grappling with growing skills gaps in crucial cybersecurity positions. Embark on a journey to acquire cyber security qualifications and enduring expertise with our complimentary cyber security career "Pathways" programmes. These programmes, conducted in collaboration with IBM and Abertay University, empower you to develop specialised skills and attain valuable qualifications. Explore our exclusive employment pathways tailored specifically for the Armed Forces community, and unlock a world of specialist skills and certifications.