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College of Engineering

Cyber-Physical Systems

Master's

Northeastern University's Master of Science in Cyber-Physical Systems prepares our graduates for a world of connected devices.

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Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
2 Year(s)
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes

Program overview

Propel your career in a growing field

This program prepares students to design and deploy secure, scalable, and intelligent cyber-physical systems that drive innovation across industries. With a curriculum spanning embedded systems, sensor and actuation networks, robotics, and advanced Internet of Things (IoT) protocols, learners gain practical, hands-on experience in building responsive and reliable smart devices. Courses also cover wireless networking with cutting-edge 5G and emerging 6G technologies, emphasizing scalability, interoperability, and cybersecurity. On the application side, students explore AI, machine learning, and big data analytics to develop intelligent systems capable of transforming domains such as smart cities, healthcare, autonomous vehicles, and industrial automation.

This program positions itself at the forefront of technological innovation, preparing students to lead in a world where intelligent systems seamlessly integrate with the physical environment. Rooted in a curriculum that blends embedded systems, IoT protocols, wireless networking, AI, and data analytics, the program empowers graduates to design and deploy smart solutions across industries.

Graduates of the program are highly sought after by industry, and their career paths primarily lead to practical applications across a wide range of engineering and technology domains.

Leveraging their expertise in cyber-physical systems, IoT, and intelligent applications, alumni often pursue roles such as IoT embedded software engineers, data scientists, systems architects, and robotics engineers. Many also transition into cross-functional positions like sales engineers, technical consultants, and product managers, where their deep technical knowledge and strategic thinking drive innovation and business growth.

  • Identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems.
  • Explain and apply engineering design principles, as appropriate to the program’s educational objectives.
  • Produce solutions that meet specified end-user needs with consideration of economic factors, and, where relevant, factors related to public policy, safety, and the environment.
  • Acquire strong working knowledge of the computer languages required to build IoT applications, both on IoT devices and on the network/server side.
  • Gain comprehensive understanding of the range of wireless and application protocols that support different IoT application domains.
  • Work in a team environment to design and develop a complete IoT application using both high-level and low-level computer languages and a range of software configuration tools.

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.

Applications received after the stated deadline dates will be accepted and processed as quickly as possible; however it may not be possible to have a decision rendered in time for the applicant to begin taking classes for the desired term if admitted.

Applications submitted by the referenced dates will receive full consideration for the referenced term. Applications received after the referenced dates will be considered on a case-by-case basis.


Fall Semester Entry

Early ActionDecember 1
Final Deadline International Students outside the USJune 1
Final Deadline: International Students Inside the USJuly 1
Domestic applicantsAugust 1

Spring Semester Entry

International Students Outside the USNovember 1
International Students Inside the USDecember 1
Domestic ApplicantsDecember 1

  • Completed online application form

  • Two letters of recommendation

  • Transcripts from all institutions attended

    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)

  • GRE is not required for terms starting during the 2025-2026 academic years

  • Statement of purpose

  • Resumé

  • TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for international applicants unless the waiver requirements are met

  • The application fee is waived for all new applicants applying to any of our Master of Science or Graduate Certificates for the fall 2025 and spring 2026 application terms.

Program objectives

Prepare for success

Gain hands-on experience in networking, security, embedded systems, data analytics, and more while building the skills to design and analyze advanced applications across diverse industries.

Shape the future with intelligent systems

Cyber-physical systems form the foundation of intelligent technologies. With training in software, embedded systems, wireless, and data, you’re prepared to shape the future of connected industries.

A flexible career path

Careers in this rapidly evolving area will encompass industry sectors, including energy, healthcare, transportation, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

Connect with us

Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

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Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $61,728
    Tuition in USD

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid
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