Education · 1 of 5
The path
A technical degree, a long screening, then three years of paid training inside the agency.
- 1
High school
Grade 12
Take math as far as your school goes. Keep your record clean, because the background check looks at your whole life.
- 2
Bachelor's degree
4 years
Usually mathematics or computer science. The agency says its cryptanalysis program needs no particular major, but it wants proof of technical skill.
- 3
Apply and interview
Varies
You must be a United States citizen. Some jobs add a pre-employment test. Interviews are mostly online or by phone, then comes a conditional job offer.
- 4
Security and psychological screening
Varies by candidate
Security forms, a background investigation, a polygraph, sometimes a one or two day security interview, written personality tests and an interview with a psychologist.
- 5
A development program
About 3 years
Formal classes, training from experienced cryptanalysts and rotating job assignments. The agency says most of its programs last three years.