Step into the shadowy world of spies, tracing the evolution of espionage from centuries-old intrigue to modern intelligence agencies.
What does it really take to be a spy? How much of what we see in movies is based on reality? And what can secret missions from the past reveal about the world of espionage today?
Start by comparing classic spy movies with real historical cases to separate Hollywood myths from real-world tradecraft. Then, dig into declassified intelligence documents, firsthand accounts from former agents, and famous operations to uncover how spies actually gathered information, communicated in secret, and stayed hidden. Along the way, explore techniques like disguises, dead drops, surveillance, and secret messages while considering the risks and ethical questions that come with the spy business. Finally, put your skills to the test in a team-planned covert operation on campus, where you’ll carry out a mission, evade detection, and debrief your team afterward.
What you'll do
Spies on Screen vs. Real Life
Compare classic spy films with historical cases and discover where Hollywood gets espionage right, where it takes creative liberties, and what real spy work actually looks like.
Documents Declassified
Analyze real intelligence documents, firsthand accounts, and famous operations to piece together the stories behind some of history’s most intriguing missions.
Learn the Tradecraft
Try your hand at disguise, surveillance, dead drops, and secret messages as you explore the techniques spies have used to gather information and stay undercover.
Plan the Perfect Operation
Work with a team to plan and carry out a covert mission on campus. Complete your objectives, evade detection, and debrief your operation to see what went according to plan—and what didn’t.
