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M aster the Mysteries and Mental Challenges
Cryptanalysis and Signals Analysis are core technical disciplines necessary for NSA to accomplish its mission and provide critical intelligence to the Nation's leaders. This intelligence may be used to combat terrorism or invent ground-breaking technology solutions.
CRYPTANALYSIS
Cryptanalysis is the art and science of solving cryptograms (writings in cipher or code) or cryptographic systems (devices for enciphering and deciphering). Cryptanalysts utilize Mathematics, Computer Programming, Engineering, and language skills as well as new technologies and creativity to systematically analyze basic elements in a cipher code to find a solution. Cryptanalysts at NSA have the unique opportunity to work with high power workstations and supercomputers to develop their own hardware and software tools for solving analytic tasks.
No specific major is targeted for Cryptanalysis; NSA hires people with technical and non-technical degrees, ranging from Mathematics to Music, Engineering to History, and Computer Programming to Chemistry.
Cryptanalysis Intern Program
Applicants for Cryptanalysis are placed in the Cryptanalysis Intern Program (CAIP), which is designed to produce professional Cryptanalysts. CAIP participants attend formal classes, receive technical training from experienced Cryptanalysts, and rotate to various job assignments throughout NSA.
SIGNALS ANALYSIS
Signals Analysis is a cutting-edge technical discipline that seeks to recover, understand, and derive intelligence from foreign signals. Signals Analysts must use their background in Computer Science, Mathematics, and Engineering to analyze, understand, and exploit the advanced signals that NSA targets use to communicate.
At NSA, Signals Analysts use the latest in computing technology and laboratory signal measurement and test equipment, as well as high power workstations and supercomputers which can be used to develop their own hardware and software tools for solving analytic tasks.
Extensive in-house classroom and on-the-job training is offered to both new hires and experienced employees as part of their continuing career development.
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