PhD in Cybersecurity
PhD in Cybersecurity
Overview
A 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. The interdisciplinary nature of the program distinguishes it from traditional doctoral degree programs in computer science, engineering, or social sciences and makes it unique in the Boston area.
Innovative Curriculum - Cybersecurity PhD
Students who choose the PhD in Cybersecurity program have a strong desire to purse academic research solving critical cybersecurity challenges facing today’s society. The PhD program is a natural path for students in the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program who want to pursue research and students with bachelor’s degrees and an interest in research-focused careers. Students who pursue careers in advancing the state of the art of cybersecurity have an opportunity to gain:
- A strong technical foundation in cybersecurity and an interdisciplinary perspective based on policy and social science
- A 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 as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Research, Information Assurance/Cyber Defense, and Cyber Operations
- The opportunity to work with and learn from faculty who are recognized internationally for their expertise and contributions in information assurance from Northeastern’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:
- The Institute of Information Assurance (IIA), an interdisciplinary research center overseen by both the Khoury College of Computer Sciences and the department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in the College of Engineering and the recipient of a National Science Foundation grant to train the country’s next generation of cybercorps
- The International Secure Systems Lab, affiliated with Northeastern, a collaborative effort of European and U.S.researchers focused on web security, malware and vulnerability analysis, intrusion detection, and other computer security issues
- The ALERT Center, where Northeastern is the lead institution, a multiuniversity Department of Homeland Security Center of Excellence involved in research, education, and technology related to threats from explosives
Experiential Learning
Northeastern combines rigorous academics with experiential learning and research to prepare students for real-world engineering challenges. The Cooperative Education Program, also known as a “co-op,” is one of the largest and most innovative in the world, and Northeastern is one of only a few that offers a Co-op Program for Graduate Students. Through this program students gain industry experience in a wide variety of organizations, from large companies to entrepreneurial start-ups, while helping to finance their education. Students also have the option to participate in the university’s Experiential PhD program.
Academic Advising
The Academic Advisors in the Graduate Student Services office can help answer many of your questions and assist with various concerns regarding your program and student record. Use the link below to also determine which questions can be answered by your Faculty Program Advisors and OGS Advisors.
Admissions & Aid
Ready to take the next step? Review degree requirements to see courses needed to complete this degree. Then, explore ways to fund your education. Finally, review admissions information to see our deadlines and gather the materials you need to Apply.