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.
Program overview
Power your cybersecurity career
Our online MS in Cybersecurity program combines an understanding of information technology with relevant knowledge from law, the social sciences, criminology, and management. The MS in Cybersecurity program is designed for working professionals and others who want knowledge they can apply in their workplaces to assess and manage information security risks effectively. The program provides a natural path to the PhD in Information Assurance program for students who want to pursue research in the field and careers involving research. Through the 100% online curriculum, students learn how to use methods and tools to make strategic decisions about information security issues, including identity theft and other forms of electronic fraud, computer viruses, hacking attacks, and even cyberwarfare.
Our online MS in Cybersecurity program combines an understanding of information technology with relevant knowledge from law, the social sciences, criminology, and management. The MS in Cybersecurity program is designed for working professionals and others who want knowledge they can apply in their workplaces to assess and manage information security risks effectively. The program provides a natural path to the PhD in Information Assurance program for students who want to pursue research in the field and careers involving research. Through the 100% online curriculum, students learn how to use methods and tools to make strategic decisions about information security issues, including identity theft and other forms of electronic fraud, computer viruses, hacking attacks, and even cyberwarfare.
- 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.
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.
Fall Term
| Deadline for domestic applicants: | August 30 |
Spring Term
| Domestic Students: | December 1 |
Online application and fee
Unofficial undergraduate/graduate transcripts (you can submit official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended at the time of admission)
Statement of purpose that should include career goals and expected outcomes and benefits from the program
Recent professional resumé listing detailed position responsibilities
Three confidential letters of recommendation
Recommended TOEFL (90 minimum) or IELTS (6.5 minimum) examination scores (international students only)
3.0 on a 4.0 scale
8.0 on a 10.0 scale
80 on a 100 scale
GRE is optional
Duolingo language test also accepted
Program objectives
Prepare for success
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity helps you develop advanced theoretical and contextual knowledge that you can immediately apply to real-world situations.
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.
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.
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.
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Cost of attendance
Tuition and financial aid
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$60,000Tuition 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 aidYour education, your way
Northeastern's online classes give you the same top-tier education you'd get in person, on a schedule that works for your lifestyle and career needs. They offer a range of videos, interactives, breakout sessions, and experience-focused learning opportunities to immerse you in the material and build community. You'll graduate with the same degree as your in-person peers.
#8
Northeastern's national ranking for Most Innovative Schools
(U.S. News & World Report, 2024)
53.5%
Percent of graduate students in the U.S. enrolled in online courses
(NCES, 2022)
97%
Percent of students in the U.S. who recommend online education
(BestColleges, 2024)