Top Cybersecurity Degrees in Massachusetts for 2024
Updated November 2, 2023
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Steeped in history, Massachusetts is home to New England's largest city (Boston) and a thriving technology industry. In 2022, the Massachusetts Technology Leadership Council (MassTLC) reported that the state hosts more than 18,000 tech companies.
MassTLC also ranked Massachusetts third in the United States in technology venture capital funding in 2021, behind only New York and California.
Students considering cybersecurity degrees in Massachusetts have a wealth of learning opportunities to consider. The state offers many rigorous, well-regarded, and accredited cybersecurity and technology degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
A strong tech industry and one of the nation's top college systems combine to make Massachusetts an appealing cybersecurity education and career-building destination. Targeted research can help determine whether Massachusetts matches your long-term goals and plans.
To that end, use this data-rich guide to explore key tech industry learning and labor market trends in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts at a Glance
- Annual Average Wage for Computer and Mathematical Occupations: $118,510
- % of Workforce in Tech: 8.4%
- Economic Impact of Tech Industry: $80 billion
- Number of Higher Learning Institutions: 107
Sources: Cyberstates™, NCES, OEWS
Why Study Cybersecurity in Massachusetts?
In the 2023 edition of its annual Cyberstates index, CompTIA reported that 8.4% of Massachusetts' entire workforce was employed in the tech industry. The state's dense presence of tech employment ranked fourth in the country.
CompTIA also counted more than 135,000 Massachusetts tech job postings over the course of 2022. Nearly two-fifths of those jobs were in emerging technological areas. These trends signal strong opportunity, both now and as the industry continues its march into the future.
Career experts highlight the value of building a career in the same state where you studied. Many cybersecurity programs in Massachusetts include practicums, internships, and other field learning or work-study components. These features connect students directly with job pipelines that can expand professional networks and may lead to valuable opportunities.
With 107 degree-granting postsecondary institutions as of 2020-21, Massachusetts has one of the nation's largest higher learning networks. Students in Massachusetts enjoy a wide breadth of choice.
You can study in urban, suburban, peri-urban, or rural locales. Cybersecurity degrees in Massachusetts also offer campus-based, fully online, and blended learning formats.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Education Statistics for Massachusetts
The 107 degree-granting institutions in Massachusetts' higher education network include both two- and four-year colleges. Students in Massachusetts also engage with distance learning at significantly lower-than-average rates compared to national trends.
This suggests atypically high levels of satisfaction with the traditional campus experience among the state's student body.
| Higher Education Statistics | Massachusetts Data | National Data |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Year Colleges | 88 | 2,679 |
| Two-Year Colleges | 19 | 1,303 |
| Students Enrolled in Distance Education | 40.5% | 59% |
Sources: NCES
Accreditation for Massachusetts Schools
You should only consider Massachusetts cybersecurity degrees hosted at accredited institutions. Institutional accreditation means that a school meets high academic quality standards, as assessed by a credible third-party agency.
Historically, the New England Commission of Higher Education served as the main accreditor of Massachusetts colleges. However, any accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) can now endorse schools located anywhere in the United States.
You can check a school's accreditation status with CHEA. In particular, check to see if the school you are considering is recognized by one of the seven main regional accreditors. You can also search using the Department of Education's Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.
Some Massachusetts cybersecurity degrees also have programmatic accreditations. These voluntary endorsements apply to programs that meet exceptional quality standards in a targeted specialization area (cybersecurity or technology, in this case).
ABET and the National Security Agency's Center of Academic Excellence program represent two major programmatic accreditors of cybersecurity, technology, and computer science degrees.
Considerations for a Cybersecurity Degree in Massachusetts
Students must assess many factors when weighing school and program options. Major examples include program costs, diversity factors, the school's location, and its reputation and job placement rates. The availability of flexible learning formats increasingly ranks as another important consideration.
Online learning is readily available in Massachusetts. Yet, the state's student body engages with it at below-average rates. This suggests particularly strong opportunities for learners who prefer the traditional campus experience.
The following chart breaks down the latest available data covering various higher education learning formats in Massachusetts:
Explore Rankings for Top Cybersecurity Programs Around the Country
Cybersecurity Concentrations and Similar Degrees
Campus-based and online cybersecurity degrees in Massachusetts belong to a specialized subfield of computer science. Other such concentrations may also interest you. As part of your due diligence, and depending on your interests and career goals, you may also want to consider related specializations.
The following explores three such options:
Cybersecurity Management
Cybersecurity management programs also examine the tools and technologies used to secure computer systems and networks. However, they more closely focus on the strategic management and use of these tools from both human resources and technological perspectives.
Information Security
Information security takes a broader view than cybersecurity, expanding to include both online and offline data and the access control strategies used to safeguard it. You can study information security at both the bachelor's and master's levels.
Computer Forensics
Also known as digital forensics, computer forensics links general computer science with cybersecurity and law enforcement. Computer forensics programs specifically teach students how to collect, organize, preserve, and analyze evidence related to digital investigations.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Paying for Your Cybersecurity Degree
Many students grapple with the financial realities attached to paying for a bachelor's or master's in cybersecurity in Massachusetts. As the table below indicates, students in Massachusetts tend to pay premiums in exchange for access to one of the nation's leading higher education systems.
If you need help paying for your degree, begin by exploring non-repayable forms of aid. These include:
- Scholarship programs
- Study grants
- Fellowships
As a last resort, you can also consider federal or private loans to fill in remaining funding gaps.
If you reside in Massachusetts, you may also qualify for assistance under the MASSGrant and MASSGrant Plus programs. These initiatives offer valuable education funding to students in qualified certificate or undergraduate degree programs who meet eligibility guidelines.
In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition
Practically all U.S. public colleges apply different in-person tuition rates to in-state and out-of-state students, with the latter group paying more. This is because state residents already pay into local higher education networks through their tax remittances.
Despite these tiered tuition-rate policies, many states also participate in reciprocity programs. These programs generally function to extend in-state rates to learners from neighboring or regional states.
Massachusetts participates in the New England Board of Higher Education's Tuition Break program. If you are from elsewhere in New England, you may qualify for in-state rates as you pursue a bachelor's in cybersecurity in Massachusetts. Eligibility also extends to select graduate programs.
Massachusetts's Cost of Living
Local living costs can profoundly affect student budgets, particularly for learners in campus-based programs. These costs cover essentials such as housing, food, utilities, and transportation.
If you plan to move to Massachusetts for school, prepare to meet high living costs, especially for housing.
As of October 2023, Massachusetts has a cost of living index score of 148.4, ranking third in the United States behind only Hawaii and the District of Columbia.
The cost of living index uses 100 as a nationwide baseline. Massachusetts' score of 148.4 means it is 48.4% more expensive than the average locality in the United States.
Jobs for Cybersecurity Graduates in Massachusetts
With an economy ranked ninth in the United States in 2023, Massachusetts abounds with opportunity. Specific to the tech industry, the 2023 Cyberstates report found that Massachusetts has approximately 177,000 technology jobs. The majority (61%) are outside the technology sector, which reflects technology's fast-rising adoption rates in other industries.
Examples of leading Massachusetts industries with pronounced technology and cybersecurity needs include:
- Financial services
- Life sciences and scientific research
- Advanced and precision manufacturing
- Sustainable energy
In Massachusetts, further tech industry growth appears imminent. In 2021, the state ranked among the top destinations for venture capital, attracting $35.5 billion in funding across nearly 1,100 financing programs.
A cybersecurity degree may help you qualify for entry to numerous tech-related career paths. The following list profiles explore some of the specialized job titles open to cybersecurity degree-holders.
Note that the O*NET Online database groups these positions together under the general "information security analyst" heading. O*NET projects a searing growth rate of 51% for information security analyst jobs in Massachusetts from 2020-2030.
Penetration Tester
Penetration testers probe their employers' computer systems and networks for weaknesses using the same strategies and tools deployed by hackers. They generate reports identifying vulnerabilities and help employers or clients remediate them. As the Massachusetts economy becomes increasingly reliant on technology, employer demand for penetration testers continues to grow.
Salary for Penetration Testers: $92,570 (October 2023)
Incident Responder
Incident responders mount frontline defenses in the event of a security breach, unauthorized system or network activity, or cyberattack. At other times, incident responders monitor systems, probe them for vulnerabilities, assess their risks, and participate in security auditing. Massachusetts hosts multiple industries vulnerable to cyberattacks, including financial services, energy generation, and scientific research.
Salary for Incident Responders: $86,420 (October 2023)
Security Auditor
Security auditors conduct comprehensive reviews of computer and network security systems for their employer or clients. Lead auditors occupy senior roles, and usually have multiple years of lower-level experience in addition to specialized cybersecurity education. You can ascend into a lead role by working as a security analyst, security engineer, or security specialist.
Salary for Security Auditors: $84,040 (October 2023)
The subsections below offer further insights into career paths and opportunities that may be open to candidates in Massachusetts with cybersecurity degrees.
Massachusetts Employment Trends
| Year | State | National* |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Hardware Engineers | ||
| 2020 Employment | 2,640 | 78,100 |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 3,150 | 81,600 |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +19% | 5% |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | ||
| 2020 Employment | 21,950 | 557,400 |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 27,760 | 643,300 |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +27% | +15% |
| Software Developers | ||
| 2020 Employment | 76,920 | 1,594,500 |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 106,880 | 2,004,900 |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +39% | +26% |
Source: O*NET
*National numbers are for 2022-2032
| Career | Massachusetts Employment | Massachusetts Annual Average Wage | National Annual Average Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | 21,490 | $176,820 | $173,670 |
| Computer Hardware Engineers | 1,530 | $141,960 | $140,830 |
| Computer Network Architects | 5,910 | $161,950 | $129,490 |
| Computer Network Support Specialists | 2,520 | $86,290 | $76,060 |
| Computer Programmers | 6,040 | $111,270 | $102,790 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | 11,410 | $121,100 | $107,530 |
| Information Security Analysts | 3,720 | $121,840 | $119,860 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | 7,440 | $106,360 | $97,160 |
| Software Developers | 60,310 | $133,750 | $132,930 |
| Web Developers | 1,670 | $92,570 | $87,580 |
Source: BLS OEWS
For each of the careers in the salary table, professionals in Massachusetts earn more than the national average. While this reflects strong demand and the health of the state's tech industry, it is also impacted by Massachusetts' relatively high living costs. Employers consider living costs when calculating salary offers and typically pay premiums in expensive areas.
Cybersecurity Employers in Massachusetts
Imprivata: Based in the Boston suburb of Waltham, Imprivata is a cybersecurity and information security company focused on the healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, gaming, and logistics industries. The company employs about 1,000 people and specializes in risk management and data privacy.
Rapid7: Rapid7 is an internationally focused cybersecurity company with its global headquarters in Boston. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of managed cybersecurity services, along with advisory, consultation, training, and security certification capabilities.
Datadog: Headquartered in New York City with a regional office in Boston, Datadog provides cloud monitoring as a service to a global network of clients. As a fast-growing company with more than 3,000 employees, Datadog has ongoing needs for cybersecurity professionals of all experience levels.
Cybersecurity Organizations in Massachusetts
Cybersecurity organizations help professionals keep pace with fast-changing industry trends. Many organizations also double as valuable sources of professional development programs and networking opportunities, through events including workshops and annual conferences.
Consider the following cybersecurity organizations with a presence in Massachusetts:
Built in Boston
Operating in multiple major U.S. technology hubs, the "Built in…" resource connects emerging and established professional tech talent with employers and opportunities. Users enjoy free access to a job board replete with precision search features.
Cybersecurity and Enterprise Risk Management
This cybersecurity and information security risk management portal is operated by the Massachusetts state government. Use it to connect with state-funded resources and services spanning cybersecurity, risk management, and prevailing enterprise cybersecurity standards.
Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech)
A public organization, MassTech works to strengthen the state's information economy and tech industry through partnerships, diversity initiatives, and investment. It encompasses the MassCyberCenter, which offers summits, seminars, training programs, and a free job board.
Schools With Cybersecurity Programs in Massachusetts
The directory below is divided into two sections of cybersecurity degrees in Massachusetts. The first portion of the directory links to associate and bachelor's in cybersecurity programs. The second links to the master's in cybersecurity programs Massachusetts has to offer.
Data in the directory comes firsthand sources—the schools themselves—as well as the National Center for Education Statistics' College Navigator tool.
Use this to launch your research for a cybersecurity degree in Massachusetts while remembering that additional programs not listed in the directory may be available.
| School Name | Student Population | Degree Program | Graduation Rate | Average Net Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Cybersecurity Degrees | ||||
| Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology | 513 | Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology/Cybersecurity Concentration | 44% | $18,198 |
| Bristol Community College | 5,822 | Associate in Science in Computer Information Systems, Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics Concentration | 22% | $6,204 |
| Cape Cod Community College | 2,136 | Associate in Science in Information Technology: Cybersecurity Concentration | 23% | $9,348 |
| Massachusetts Bay Community College | 3,423 (2021-22) | Cybersecurity Associate in Science | 18% | $6,872 |
| Middlesex Community College | 7,770 | Information Technology Cybersecurity Associate in Science | 16% | $3,265 |
| North Shore Community College | 4,391 | Computer Networking and Security–Information Technology Pathway | 21% | $8,444 |
| Quincy College | 2,602 | Associate in Science in Computer Science: Cybersecurity | 16% | $14,744 |
| Quinsigamond Community College | 6,481 | Computer Systems Engineering Technology–Cybersecurity Option | 21% | $6,809 |
| Assumption University | 2,059 | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | 72% | $28,911 |
| Bay Path University | 2,465 | Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | 70% | $18,502 |
| Cambridge College | 2,135 | Bachelor's in Cybersecurity | N/A | $21,178 |
| Fitchburg State University | 6,554 | Cybersecurity Concentration, Computer Information Systems, Bachelor of Science | 56% | $15,535 |
| University of Massachusetts Amherst | 32,229 | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Security & Privacy Track | 83% | $22,291 |
| Master's in Cybersecurity Degrees and Certificates | ||||
| Bridgewater University | 9,604 | Graduate Certificate in Cybercriminology and Cybersecurity | 56% | $17,225 |
| Boston University-Metro | 36,714 | Information Security Graduate Certificate | 89% | $27,829 |
| Northeastern University | 30,013 | Graduate Certificate in Information Security Management | 91% | $35,827 |
| University of Massachusetts Amherst | 32,229 | Graduate Certificate in Information Security | 83% | $22,291 |
| Bay Path University | 2,465 | Cybersecurity Master of Science | 70% | $18,502 |
| Boston University | 36,714 | Master of Science in Computer Information Systems, Security Concentration | 89% | $27,829 |
| Northeastern University | 30,013 | Master of Science in Cybersecurity | 91% | $35,827 |
| Tufts University | 13,431 | Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Public Policy | 94% | $30,479 |
| University of Massachusetts Amherst | 32,229 | Master of Science Concentration in Security | 83% | $22,291 |
| University of Massachusetts Lowell | 17,153 | Master of Science in Computer Science, Cybersecurity Option | 71% | $17,240 |
Sources: NCES, Cambridge College, Massachusetts Bay Community College
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Questions About Cybersecurity in Massachusetts
Should I pursue my cybersecurity degree online in Massachusetts?
It depends on your learning style. An online cybersecurity degree can offer flexibility and affordability. Many remote learners can maintain their current lifestyle while completing their coursework. Online learners need strong time management and organization skills.
Do New England cybersecurity colleges have a good reputation?
Yes. New England is home to many well-known and reputable colleges and universities. Students should research each school to learn about accreditation and reputation. All schools featured in our rankings hold accreditation.
Can I get a master's of science in cybersecurity in Massachusetts?
Yes. Massachusetts hosts several master's-level cybersecurity programs. Students at all levels may find a program that suits them at one of the state's many reputable and well-established colleges.
What jobs are available in Massachusetts for cybersecurity graduates?
Massachusetts shows strong projected growth for cybersecurity positions like computer forensics analysts and security administrators. The state is home to hundreds of tech companies and startups, with more positions opening all the time.
Source List
- Average undergraduate tuition. (n.d.). National Center for Education Statistics
- Cost of living index. (2023). World Population Review
- Degree-granting postsecondary institutions. (n.d.). National Center for Education Statistics
- Leading industries and employers. (2023). Mass Econ
- Massachusetts employment trends. (n.d.). O*Net
- MassTLC releases 2022 state of the Massachusetts tech economy report. (2022). Mass Technology Leadership Council
- Occupational Outlook Handbook. (2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Payscale homepage. (2023). Payscale
- State of the tech workforce. (2023). CompTIA | Cyberstates.org
- Trend generator. (n.d.). National Center for Education Statistics
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