Khoury College of Computer Sciences

Cybersecurity

Master's: Online
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Master's : Boston, MA
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The Master of Science in Cybersecurity explores key issues in information security and how technology can help resolve them. You will build and strengthen your technical skills and add to your understanding of the context in which cybersecurity technology is applied.

Online
Location
Full-Time
Part-Time
Commitment
2-2.5 Years
Duration of Program
Fall, Spring
Entry Terms
No
Meets F1 Visa Requirements
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Overview

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.

More Details

Unique Features

  • 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

Program Objectives

  • Build core knowledge surrounding computer system security and network practices
  • Plan and implement security strategies to reduce risk and enhance protection of information assets and systems
  • Understand legal and ethical issues associated with information security, privacy, and digital rights
  • Enhance communication skills for effective interaction with corporate management on IA-related issues

Career Outlook

Ever-increasing cyberattacks against companies and governments are creating unprecedented risks and a tremendous need for trained cybersecurity professionals. In fact, according to Burning Glass, a labor market analytics firm, cybersecurity positions rose 73 percent in the five-year period ending in 2012—3.5 times faster than postings for computer jobs as a whole. As a result of mounting risks, knowledge and experience requirements, and demand exceeding available talent, cybersecurity specialists command premium salaries. For example, the median pay for a cybersecurity analyst—ranked #17 in CNN/Money’s “Best Jobs in America”—is $95,700. 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

 

Testimonials

"I had an incredible experience in the program. I met some of the most brilliant-minded colleagues and challenged myself in a way I didn’t know was possible. I’m forever grateful to the program for getting me a step closer to expertise in the field of cybersecurity."

Ally H., MSIA 2017

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Admissions

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

$52K *
Tuition

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

  • 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
  • Unofficial TOEFL or IELTS 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

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Global Engagement Learn how our teaching and research benefit from a worldwide network of students, faculty, and industry partners.

Admissions Dates

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
Spring Term
Deadline for domestic applicants: August 1
Domestic Students: December 1
Curriculum

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.


For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

 

Experiential Learning

Co-op makes the Northeastern graduate education richer and more meaningful. It provides master’s students with up to 12 months of professional experience that helps them develop the knowledge, awareness, perspective, and confidence to develop rich careers. In addition to the esteemed faculty, many students enroll in the master’s programs largely because of the successful co-op program.

Graduate students typically have an experiential work opportunity following their second semester. This could be a six- to eight-month co-op or a three- to four-month summer internship. Those who initially experience co-op may have the opportunity to seek an internship for the following summer, or vice versa.

Student participation in experiential education provides enhanced:

  • Learning
  • Maturity, responsibility, and self-knowledge
  • Technical expertise
  • Occupational information
  • Job-seeking and job-success skills
  • Networking opportunities with those in desired career paths

Northeastern’s co-op program is based on a unique educational strategy which recognizes that classroom learning only provides some of the skills students will need to succeed in their professional lives. Our administration, faculty, and staff are dedicated to the university’s mission to “educate students for a life of fulfillment and accomplishment.” Co-op is closely integrated with our course curriculum and our advising system. The team of graduate co-op faculty within the Khoury College of Computer Sciences provides support for students in preparing for and succeeding on their co-ops.

These multiple connections make co-op at Northeastern an avenue to intellectual and personal growth: adding depth to classroom studies, providing exposure to career paths and opportunities, and developing in students a deeper understanding that leads to success in today’s world.

Faculty

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Students

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Cybersecurity alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

 

  • Where They Work

    • Raytheon
    • Wayfair
    • Fidelity
    • Amazon
    • Google
    • Akamai
    • PWC
    • Microsoft
    • National Security Agency
    • Department of Defense
    • Dell

  • What They Do

    • Forensic Manager
    • Security Analyst
    • Malware Engineer
    • Systems Analyst
    • CISO
    • Systems Engineer
    • Cybersecurity Analyst

  • What They're Skilled At

    • Java
    • SQL
    • Software Development
    • JavaScript
    • HTML

 

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on Linkedin.

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