<p>I am considering majoring in computer science at a good school, but not in the top 25. Would I have a shot of working for the CIA as an analyst, or is an Ivy League degree necessary? What about if I got into a top grad school?</p>
<p>A degree from a "top" university would help but it isn't necessary. From what i've been told, the CIA only actively recruits from certain schools, although anyone is free to apply. I had a brief talk with a recruiter a few months ago about an analyst postion as well (albeit as a political analyst). He basically explained that they were currently filled to capacity for those spots. Wheather or not they'll open more positions in the future is anybody's guess. </p>
<p>The best advice I could offer is for you attain the best GPA you can possibly get, have a sqeaky clean background and take a shot at an internship position. If you can get the internship, it'll provide with some pretty good networking opportunities that could lead to permanent employment in the forseable future. Mind you, these internships are extremely difficult to come by, so you may have to be flexible about exploring other options.</p>
<p>I'm actually quite surprised so many people want to work for the CIA...what happened to greed :(</p>
<p>greed was so spring '07...its all about happiness now (so boring)</p>
<p>Investigate the research funding sources of your department profs and their specialties. Those who are receiving funding from DARPA may have some excellent contacts for internships in your area of interest.</p>