Thinking about earning a cybersecurity degree in Massachusetts? Whether you’re just starting or advancing your expertise, this guide highlights top programs and everything you need to know, from accreditation to career opportunities in one of the nation’s top tech hubs.
Massachusetts is home to several well-established cybersecurity programs that equip students with the skills needed to thrive in today’s security-driven tech industry. Accredited by the National Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE) through the NSA and DHS, these programs offer industry-recognized training and career-ready credentials.
Key Takeaways:
- #1 in Science & Technology: Massachusetts leads the U.S. in tech innovation, with tech employment growing by 24.3% from 2010 to 2019.
- Software Industry Hub: Home to 2,000+ software publishing companies employing 37,000+ workers (3× the national average).
- Strong IT Workforce: Over 85,000 professionals employed in computer systems design across 9,000+ companies.
- Cybersecurity Infrastructure: 140 cybersecurity firms and 30+ cybersecurity degree programs across the state.
- Job Growth: Massachusetts added 72,000 tech jobs in the past decade, reflecting a booming IT and cybersecurity sector.
- Fortune 500 Presence: Massachusetts hosts 12 Fortune 500 companies, including major players in finance, defense, biotech, and tech innovation.
State Overview and Landscape
Massachusetts has long been a national leader in cybersecurity education and innovation. With over 30 cybersecurity degree programs and four institutions recognized by the NSA and DHS as Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE), the state is committed to producing top-tier cybersecurity professionals. Renowned universities such as Boston University and Northeastern play a pivotal role in advancing cybersecurity training, research, and workforce development.
Many cybersecurity programs in Massachusetts are offered in flexible formats, including on-campus and fully online options to accommodate different student needs.
All programs listed below meet Massachusetts education standards and align with federal guidelines, ensuring graduates are prepared for industry-recognized certifications and roles in cybersecurity.
Affordable Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs List
The following Master’s in Cybersecurity programs were carefully selected for their strong academic reputation, CAE accreditation, and alignment with current industry needs. These programs offer a range of learning formats, including on-campus, hybrid, and fully online, providing flexibility for working professionals and full-time students alike. With reasonable tuition rates, hands-on experiences, and pathways to leadership roles, these programs offer great value for anyone looking to break into or grow in the cybersecurity field.
Boston University – Boston
- Boston, Massachusetts
- 40 hours
- Campus
Program:
MS in Computer Science, Security Concentration
Modality: On-Campus (Full-time or Part-time)
Things to Consider:
- 12-20 Months
- 17 Core Faculty
- No GRE/GMAT required
Length: 40 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $880 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $880 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #1 in Boston, Boston University’s Master’s in Computer Science with a Security concentration prepares students for high-demand cybersecurity roles through hands-on learning, research opportunities, and strong career support. The program offers flexible study options, access to extensive university resources, and a certificate-to-degree pathway.
- STEM Designated
- Combines technical theory with real-world projects and case studies.
- Research opportunities via BU’s RISCS center.
- One-on-one career counseling and job-hunting resources.
- Taught by expert faculty with industry experience.
- Strong peer and alumni professional networks.
- STEM-designated: OPT extension up to 36 months.
- Flexible evening and seasonal course offerings.
- Established program with 40+ years of academic excellence.
- Merit scholarships for U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
- Certificate-to-degree pathway available (Information Security & Digital Forensics).
Harvard University – Cambridge
- Cambridge, Massachusetts
- 48 hours
- Hybrid
Program:
Cybersecurity Master’s Degree Program
Modality: Hybrid
Things to Consider:
- 11 out of 12 courses entirely online
- Have on-campus experience with a 3 week summer course
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $860 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $860 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #1 in the world, Harvard University’s Cybersecurity Master’s Degree Program equips students with advanced skills to secure networks, systems, and cloud infrastructures. The program combines rigorous academics, real-world projects, and access to Harvard’s vast alumni and innovation networks to prepare graduates for leadership roles in cybersecurity.
- Gain expertise in data network architecture, communication, and risk mitigation.
- Complete a capstone project with peers and industry partners.
- Earn a Harvard University ALM degree in Cybersecurity.
- Rated 4.5/5 by students for quality instruction.
- Access entrepreneurial support through Harvard Innovation Labs.
- Join Harvard’s global alumni networks (400,000+ members).
Bay Path University – Longmeadow
- Longmeadow, Massachusetts
- 30 hours
- Online
Program:
MS Cybersecurity
Modality: Online
Things to Consider:
- 100% Online
- 10 Course Program
- Classes start every January, May, September and October
- No GRE/GMAT Required
Length: 30 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $880 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $880 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked the 5th Best Online Master’s in Cybersecurity by Fortune for 2024, the MS in Cybersecurity is a flexible and customizable program that prepares students for leadership and decision-making positions in companies, educational institutions, organizations, nonprofits, and government.
- Bay Path’s membership in MassCyber’s Training and Education Working Group offers access to internships, research, networks, and industry best practices.
- Partner in the $1.5M Union Station Cyber Range Project, providing hands-on experience through simulations and live cyberattack scenarios.
- Hosts an annual Cybersecurity Summit with national professionals, offering networking and career opportunities.
ABET + CAE Accredited Master’s in Cybersecurity Program List
These master’s programs in cybersecurity stand out for their academic excellence, trusted accreditations, and strong industry alignment. Each is accredited by an organization like CAE (National Centers of Academic Excellence), ensuring relevance and quality. Whether you’re looking for online flexibility or on-campus rigor, these programs offer impactful pathways into advanced cybersecurity careers.
Northeastern University – Boston
- Boston, Massachusetts
- 32 hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
MS in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Things to Consider:
- 100 percent of graduates have found employment in their field
- $120K median salary (information security analyst)
- Co-ops and internships: Rated #1
Length: 32 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $1,570 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,570 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-R, CAE-C0
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #2 in Boston and #6 in the state, Northeastern University’s MS in Cybersecurity will equip you to manage ongoing information security risks as you tackle digital threats to key pillars of our society — government, health, finance, logistics, defense, industry, and more.
- Research Opportunities
- Co-op program (ranked #1 in the country by U.S. News & World Report).
- Can complete a capstone project for a company like Rapid 7, MITRE, Mass General Brigham, Fidelity, or Raytheon.
- Offers options for students with strong computer science or domain-specific backgrounds (e.g., military, health, finance).
Worcester Polytechnic Institute – Worcester
- Worcester, Massachusetts
- 30 hours
- Campus
Program:
Master’s in Cyber Security
Modality: On-Campus
Things to Consider:
- On-campus only — not suited for students seeking an online program
- GRE/GMAT Required
Length: 30 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $1,610 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,610 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-R
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #11 in the state, WPI’s Master’s in Cyber Security offers both standard and advanced tracks, allowing students to tailor their education based on prior experience and career goals. The program blends technical expertise with societal context and emphasizes hands-on, real-world learning.
- Two tracks: standard and advanced.
- Focus options: software-centric or hardware-centric courses.
- Interdisciplinary input from CS, ECE, math, and business departments.
- Emphasizes societal, business, and policy contexts.
- Customizable course paths aligned with career goals.
- Offers experiential learning and real-world research opportunities.
PhD in Cybersecurity Programs List
This program was selected for its strong research focus, NSA recognition as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Research, and access to expert faculty and advanced labs, making it an excellent choice for students pursuing a Ph.D. in cybersecurity.
Northeastern University – Boston
- Boston, Massachusetts
- 48 hours
- Campus
Program:
PhD in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus
Things to Consider:
- On-campus only — not suited for students seeking an online program
- Assistantships, Fellowships, Scholarships, and external awards available
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $1,875 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,875 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-R, CAE-CD, CAE-CO
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #2 in Boston and #6 in the state, Northeastern University’s research-based, interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cybersecurity combines a strong security technical foundation with a security policy and social sciences perspective. It seeks to prepare graduates to advance the state of the art of security in systems networks and the internet in industry, academia, and government.
- Strong technical foundation in cybersecurity and an interdisciplinary perspective based on policy and social science.
- path to a research-focused career coupled with depth in information assurance research at a leading institution, one of the earliest designees by NSA/DHS.
- Opportunity to work with and learn from faculty who are recognized internationally for their expertise and contributions in information assurance from Northeastern University’s Khoury College of Computer Sciences, the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities.
- Access to research projects at Northeastern’s research centers focused on security.
Bachelors in Cybersecurity Programs List
These bachelor’s programs were selected for their academic strength, national recognition, and real-world relevance. Each is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) by the NSA and DHS, ensuring high-quality cybersecurity education. Programs offer comprehensive training through on-campus or online formats and are designed to prepare students for today’s cybersecurity workforce.
Northeastern University – Boston
- Boston, Massachusetts
- 134 hours
- Campus
Program:
BS in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus
Things to Consider:
- On-campus only — not suited for students seeking an online program
- CyberCorps® Scholarship for Service (SFS) program
Length: 134 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $1,779 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,779 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-R, CAE-C0
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #2 in Boston and #6 in the state, Northeastern University’s BS in Cybersecurity teaches students the conceptual and practical skills that will enable them to contribute to ensuring the reliability and security of cyberspace.
- Co-op opportunities and Internships.
- Research opportunities.
- Hands-on experience through lab work.
Assumption College – Worcester
- Worcester, Massachusetts
- 120 hours
- Campus
Program:
BS in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus
Things to Consider:
- On-campus only — not suited for students seeking an online program
- Scholarships and Grants Available
- Employment options at campus
Length: 120 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $1,556 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,556 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Why We Picked This Program:
The Assumption University Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity offers a technology-based education, using methods in computing and information science, engineering, social science, and technology management that also foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the digital information economy.
- Double Major in cybersecurity and computer science.
- Faculty is drawn from different areas of expertise in cybersecurity.
Bay Path University – Longmeadow
- Longmeadow, Massachusetts
- 120 hours
- Online
Program:
BS in Cybersecurity: Digital Forensics and Incident Response
Modality: Online
Things to Consider:
- Online with asynchronous coursework
- Double Major available
- Access courses on your schedule through an interactive, virtual classroom
Length: 120 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $1,154 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,154 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Why We Picked This Program:
This program prepares students for career success by leveraging cutting-edge technology and real-world application. Students will gain expertise in forensic acquisition, network intrusions, mobile forensics, insider threat, and more. Students will learn to apply security measures that align with the CIA triad of data — confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
- Courses led by experienced and industry-connected faculty.
- Accelerated 6 or 7-week courses.
- The Digital Forensics and Incident Response major can also be taken as a Digital Forensics certificate and applied to any degree program for students interested in further specializing their area of study (Cyber Investigations, Mobile Technology Analysis, and Introduction to Digital Forensics).
- High-performing students will have the opportunity to enter a 4 + 1 program during their senior year.
- Eight lab-based courses.
Salary & Career Outlook in Massachusetts
The BLS table below highlights the key occupations:
| Title | Employment | Employment RSE | Employment per 1,000 jobs | Location quotient | Median hourly wage | Mean hourly wage | Annual mean wage | Mean wage RSE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analysts | 8,460 | 7.7% | 2.629 | 0.80 | $45.43 | $47.42 | $98,630 | 7.5% |
| Information Security Analysts | 2,770 | 6.4% | 0.860 | 0.74 | $47.34 | $52.95 | $110,140 | 4.0% |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | 70 | 38.2% | 0.022 | 0.10 | $57.74 | $69.86 | $145,310 | 7.1% |
| Computer Network Support Specialists | 2,920 | 4.3% | 0.909 | 0.87 | $29.29 | $32.86 | $68,350 | 3.0% |
| Computer User Support Specialists | 10,190 | 4.0% | 3.165 | 0.70 | $24.58 | $26.88 | $55,900 | 1.4% |
| Computer Network Architects | 3,940 | 8.9% | 1.223 | 1.07 | $53.08 | $53.95 | $112,220 | 2.2% |
| Database Administrators | 1,650 | 9.3% | 0.512 | 1.02 | $51.73 | $50.24 | $104,490 | 4.4% |
| Database Architects | 560 | 11.2% | 0.174 | 0.44 | $57.69 | $57.47 | $119,530 | 3.2% |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | 4,900 | 6.7% | 1.522 | 0.72 | $39.17 | $42.95 | $89,340 | 4.3% |
Massachusetts is experiencing a growing cybersecurity talent gap, with over 2,000 unfilled positions across the state and demand projected to rise steadily through 2026. Worcester alone anticipates 22% job growth, outpacing national trends. With its dense concentration of tech companies, research institutions, and government contractors, the state’s cybersecurity workforce cannot keep pace with emerging threats. The high demand coupled with a supply shortage presents strong career opportunities for both new and transitioning professionals.
Major employers fueling this demand include:
- Machado and SideChannel (Worcester) are actively recruiting, particularly looking for people with skills in AI security, cloud protection, and blockchain security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use an online cybersecurity degree from another state in Massachusetts?
Yes, as long as the degree is from an accredited school (especially one recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or CAE), it will be accepted by most employers in Massachusetts.
2. Which Massachusetts universities have CAE-designated cybersecurity programs?
Top schools like Northeastern, Boston University, WPI, and MIT are CAE-designated by the NSA and DHS, meaning they meet high national standards.
3. What financial aid is available for cybersecurity students in Massachusetts?
Students can apply for scholarships like the CyberCorps® Scholarship for Service, federal aid, and school-based grants, especially at CAE-designated universities.
4. Do Massachusetts employers accept online or hybrid cybersecurity degrees?
Yes, if the program is accredited and includes hands-on labs or internship experience, employers treat online and hybrid degrees as credible.
5. What is the job outlook for cybersecurity careers in Massachusetts?
Cybersecurity jobs are in high demand across the state, with over 2,000 openings and a projected growth rate of more than 20% in cities like Worcester.
