Exciting Opportunities Await With Counter-Terrorism

Answer 1

Counter-terrorism is the discipline dedicated to the prevention of terrorist acts, whether foreign or domestic. In the United States, especially in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, counter-terrorism took on a new priority as the threat of Islamic terrorists suddenly became very apparent. Officials working within this field are faced with relentless tide of threats against their own country from every corner of the world. The intense personal pressure and stress that results ends up nearly breaking those who do not find the strength within themselves to carry on and protect their fellow citizens from the danger that sometimes lives among them.

There is no one degree to study if one wants to become a counter-terrorism agent or analyst. Many people working in counter-terrorism were recruited by the Central Intelligence Agency or the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their skills in analysis and comprehension. These two qualities are essential for understanding complicated intelligence data and sorting out conflicting information. Many liberal arts graduates go on to serve their country as a counter-terrorism agent. Since liberal arts colleges have such a strong reputation for minting excellent researchers, this makes a lot of sense.

Counter-terrorism involves skills such as critical thinking, writing and excellent communications skills. Alternative studies for those at major-based schools include foreign languages, religion, political science, history and even mathematics. There is even the option to pursue a criminal justice program with an eye towards working for the FBI. The CIA generally wants graduates with degrees in subjects such as international relations, national security studies and other subjects. Counter-terrorism agents and analysts have a long history of working together with intelligence and counter-intelligence programs.

Some counter-terrorism programs take graduates with degrees in finance or business. Whatever the particular speciality, the typical salary can range widely, from $50,000 to $90,000 per year and above depending on experience level. Counter-terrorism involves stretching oneself to the limit in the pursuit of protecting countries from killers and madmen. It is a high-stress field to work in, but with the right attitude and a taste for excitement and the sense that one is truly making the world a better place, there is no better career option.