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Khoury College of Computer Sciences

Cybersecurity

Master's

Help advance the field of cybersecurity, assessing and managing ongoing information security risks. Learn from top faculty and through direct work in tech, government, finance, defense, and more.

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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

The future of cybersecurity

One of the best cybersecurity programs available, Northeastern University’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity helps you develop advanced theoretical and contextual knowledge you can immediately apply to real-world situations.

Designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence for Cyber Operations by the Department of Defense and National Security Agency, our program helps you gain technical computer skills in information security. You’ll develop a contextual and interdisciplinary foundation in law, forensics, criminology, social sciences, policy, and management to break down silos in cybersecurity while learning from the experts who are driving innovation across industries.

  • Northeastern University has been designated by the National Security Agency and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as a Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance/Cyberdefense, in IA Research, and in Cyberoperations
  • Earn real-world experience through the capstone project, or through numerous co-op opportunities
  • Join a network of alumni who work at leading institutions such as Cigital, Akamai, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, MITRE, and Partners Healthcare
  • 100% online format provides the greatest flexibility for working professionals

Our MS Cybersecurity graduates have found career success at a range of companies and government organizations, including:

  • Cigital
  • EMC Corporation
  • IBM
  • Microsoft
  • MITRE Corporation
  • Raytheon
  • U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force
  • U.S. Department of Justice
  • U.S. National Security Agency

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.

Applicants must submit the online application and all required admission materials no later than the stated deadlines to be considered for admission. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis.


Spring Term

International Students:September 15
Domestic students:December 1

Fall Term

International Students:May 1
Domestic students:August 30

  • Online application and fee 

  • Transcripts from all institutions attended 

  • Statement of purpose that should include career goals and expected outcomes and benefits from the program

  • Recent professional resumé listing detailed position responsibilities

  • Three letters of recommendation

  • GPA minimums: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, 8.0 on a 10.0 scale, or 80 on a 100 scale

  • Recommended TOEFL (90 minimum) or IELTS (6.5 minimum) examination scores (international students only)

  • GRE Optional

Program objectives

Prepare for success

Develop your network in Boston

As a tech-forward city, Boston connects you to important sectors for cybersecurity, such as military, finance, health, law, and policy. Our flagship Boston campus puts cutting-edge research at your fingertips.

Leverage tech for a more secure world

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity helps you develop advanced theoretical and contextual knowledge that you can immediately apply to real-world situations.

Experience-driven learning

Experiential learning is a core piece of your program and takes place in the form of project work, research opportunities, optional paid co-op and internship opportunities, and a capstone project.

Strengthen your knowledge and skills

Build core knowledge surrounding computer system security and how to plan and implement security strategies to reduce risk with an understanding of legal and ethical issues.

Launch an in-demand career

You don’t need a background in cybersecurity to have a future in it. A master’s designed for non-majors, the Align program can help you launch your new tech career in as little as 2.5 years.

Market outlook
Industry at a glance
Here's a look at current market trends and the career landscape.

Occupations

Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $60,000
    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
Studying in Boston

A hub of innovation

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Northeastern's first campus builds on Boston's legacy of innovation. Our 37-plus research facilities allow students and faculty to work on groundbreaking research, while our deep ties to the biotech, healthcare, education, and startup industries provide unique opportunities for learning.

#1

Best state to live in

(WalletHub, 2023)

110K+

Northeastern alumni in Greater Boston

#3

Best state for education

(U.S. News & World Report, 2024) 

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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