BOSTON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
MS in Computer Science with Specialization in Cyber Security
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 8 graduate courses (32 units)Program Length
- Specialization in Cyber SecurityFocus Area
- Covers technical and societal aspects of securityCurriculum Scope
- Strong CS foundation requiredPrerequisite
- Option for Master's Project/ThesisCapstone
Boston University's Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science with a specialization in Cyber Security is designed for students seeking advanced technical expertise in protecting computer systems. This program addresses the growing demand for professionals skilled in cyber security, covering both technical aspects of secure software and systems, and broader societal implications like privacy and legal frameworks. The specialization builds upon a strong foundation in computer science, preparing graduates for roles that require a deep understanding of safeguarding digital information and infrastructure. The curriculum is an eight-course program, with 32 credit units. Students will gain mastery in areas such as cryptographic methods, data security, fault-tolerant computing, network security, privacy, anonymity, software safety, and system security. While the program is ideal for those with an undergraduate degree in computer science, it also welcomes applicants with equivalent training, experience, or those with a strong academic record and some gaps in their CS background. Graduates will possess comprehensive knowledge across computer science theory, software, systems, and applications, with specific expertise in cyber security principles and practices.
Curriculum
The MS in Computer Science with a specialization in Cyber Security requires eight graduate courses (32 units). Five of these courses must fulfill the program's core breadth requirements, ensuring a well-rounded understanding across key computer science areas. The remaining courses can be chosen from cyber security-related electives, with advisor approval.
- Core Breadth Requirements
- TheoryGRS CS 630 (recommended)
- SystemsCAS CS 551, CAS CS 552, CAS CS 561, GRS CS 651, GRS CS 654, or GRS CS 655
- SoftwareGRS CS 611 (recommended)
- Applications
- Cyber Security Specialization Core
- Cyber Security Specialization Course 1CAS CS 518, CAS CS 538, CAS CS 548, CAS CS 558, or CAS CS 568
- Cyber Security Specialization Course 2CAS CS 518, CAS CS 538, CAS CS 548, CAS CS 558, or CAS CS 568
- Electives
- Cyber Security Related Elective 1Graduate-level CS (CAS CS 500-599 or GRS CS 600-999) or approved courses from Math/Stats, Engineering, or Business
- Cyber Security Related Elective 2Graduate-level CS (CAS CS 500-599 or GRS CS 600-999) or approved courses from Math/Stats, Engineering, or Business
- Cyber Security Related Elective 3Graduate-level CS (CAS CS 500-599 or GRS CS 600-999) or approved courses from Math/Stats, Engineering, or Business
Careers
This specialization prepares graduates for roles in the rapidly expanding field of cyber security, equipping them with the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary to protect digital assets and systems. Graduates will be well-positioned for careers focused on ensuring the reliability, safety, and security of computer systems.
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Information Security Engineer
- Network Security Specialist
- Software Security Developer
- System Security Administrator
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the MS in Computer Science with a specialization in Cyber Security program?
- The program requires completion of eight graduate courses, totaling 32 credit units. The program structure is designed to be completed through these courses.
- What are the entry requirements for this program?
- A bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field with equivalent training and experience is preferred. Applicants with strong academic records, even with some gaps in their CS background, are also considered.
- How do I apply to this program?
- You need to submit an online application through the Boston University Graduate Admissions portal. This includes submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and English proficiency test scores for international applicants.
- What are the tuition fees and living costs for international students?
- Specific tuition fees for this program are not provided and should be checked on the university's official tuition pages. International students must secure funding for the entire cost of attendance, including living expenses, as these are not provided by the program.
- What are the career prospects after completing this specialization?
- This specialization prepares graduates for roles such as Cyber Security Analyst, Information Security Engineer, and Software Security Developer, equipping them to protect digital assets and systems.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field with equivalent computer training and experience is preferred. Strong academic records are considered, even with some background gaps.
Students are expected to achieve a grade of B– or better in all graduate-level courses counting towards the degree. Among the grades for the five breadth courses, the number of B– grades must not exceed the number of B+ or higher grades. No grade lower than B– is accepted for graduate credit.
Fees
Tuition (international)Specific tuition fees are not provided for this program. Please refer to the university's official tuition pages for current rates.
Tuition (home)Specific tuition fees are not provided for this program. Please refer to the university's official tuition pages for current rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided. International students must secure funding for the entire cost of attendance, including living expenses.
The School of Theology is mentioned as having the lowest tuition among graduate programs at BU; however, this MS program is within the Computer Science department, not the School of Theology. LLM students are eligible for partial-tuition waivers, but full tuition and living expenses are not covered. Full funding for living expenses is not available.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and any prerequisite requirements for the MS in Computer Science program.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and GRE scores if required. International students will also need to provide English proficiency test scores.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the online application form provided by Boston University Graduate Admissions.
4. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
5. Send Supporting DocumentsEnsure all official transcripts and test scores are sent directly to the admissions office as instructed.
6. Await Admission DecisionAdmissions decisions are typically released after the application review period.
Scholarships
LLM Scholars ProgramPartial-tuition waivers
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the MS in Computer Science with a specialization in Cyber Security program?
+
The program requires completion of eight graduate courses, totaling 32 credit units. The program structure is designed to be completed through these courses.
What are the entry requirements for this program?
+
A bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field with equivalent training and experience is preferred. Applicants with strong academic records, even with some gaps in their CS background, are also considered.
How do I apply to this program?
+
You need to submit an online application through the Boston University Graduate Admissions portal. This includes submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and English proficiency test scores for international applicants.
What are the tuition fees and living costs for international students?
+
Specific tuition fees for this program are not provided and should be checked on the university's official tuition pages. International students must secure funding for the entire cost of attendance, including living expenses, as these are not provided by the program.
What are the career prospects after completing this specialization?
+
This specialization prepares graduates for roles such as Cyber Security Analyst, Information Security Engineer, and Software Security Developer, equipping them to protect digital assets and systems.