The study compares some of the most frequently used qualitative data collection methods and analytical techniques employed by intelligence analysts with those of social scientists. The focus is on intelligence units versus research sections, the research cycle, data collection, and data analysis. The study concludes providing tertiary education in social research methods for law enforcement intelligence personnel, or alternatively recruiting social scientists as analysts, can be beneficial. The study also points to similar positive situations experienced by the Central Intelligence Agency in its exchange program with various universities. 40 references, 3 endnotes, and 7 figures