Cybersecurity, MS Online - New England College

NEC Faculty and Student Web Services (MyNEC) will not be available on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 5:00–10:00 a.m. due to system upgrade. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Need Help?
Admissions
Apply Now
Need Help?
Launch Experience
Degree Programs
Find a Program
Need Help?
Launch Experience
Life at NEC
Apply Now
Need Help?
Launch Experience
About
Apply Now
Need Help?
Launch Experience

Master’s in Cybersecurity, Online MS

Cybersecurity encompasses the protection of computer systems, networks, software, hardware, and other digital assets from data theft, disruption, and information distortion. This fast-growing segment of information technology impacts all areas of computer education—from programming to network engineering, to data storage and analysis, and beyond.

Apply Now

Request More Information

By clicking the button above, you consent to be contacted by New England College via call, text, or email regarding your education. These communications may use automated technology or AI.

Contact the Department

On This Page

Master’s in Cybersecurity Online Program Overview

Students in the New England College (NEC) master’s in Cybersecurity online program will learn about the advanced defensive and proactive techniques used to combat existing threats and future attacks. Our students will hone the skills to detect, counter, and recover from security incidents and cyber vulnerabilities. They will also study best practices related to protecting an organization’s data and infrastructure.

Students who move to a career in cybersecurity can expect competitive salaries and benefits, opportunities for advancement, and the promise of continuing job growth.

The 36-credit master’s in Cybersecurity online program at NEC can be completed in 14 months. Offered 100% online, the program has six convenient start times throughout the year.

Cybersecurity Online Master’s Program Highlights

Flexible Efficient
With our 100% online degree, you can work toward your degree on your schedule. Earn the degree in as little as 14 months.

Why Earn Your MS in Cybersecurity Online?

As tech-driven devices and networks continue to flourish, the potential threat of cyberattacks also grows. This growth can have devastating economic consequences. According to CyberProtection Magazine, the cost of cybercrime around the globe is expected to increase from $8.44 trillion in 2022 to $23.84 trillion by 2027. 

The seriousness of cyberattacks makes cybersecurity professionals highly sought-after in modern business. New paths for cybercriminals to exploit and more sophisticated cybercrime strategies make it important that cybersecurity professionals possess a high level of knowledge and skill to anticipate, recognize, and thwart attempted attacks. 

An MS in cybersecurity online can equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to become cybersecurity leaders who are fully entrusted to keep a company’s vital information protected from cybercrime—an element that may also protect crucial customer data. The cybersecurity field also offers unique industry stability. As long as cyberattacks occur, cybersecurity jobs will be in demand.

 

Cybersecurity Master’s Online Learning Outcomes

In NEC’s Cybersecurity online master’s degree program, you’ll learn to:

  • Fortify knowledge of database vulnerabilities and defenses
  • Understand the ethics and legal aspects of cybersecurity
  • Develop strong, secure network systems
  • Enhance the ability to develop and execute cybersecurity and web application strategies
  • Understand the nuances of cloud computing and cybersecurity

What Can You Do with a Master’s in Cybersecurity Online?

Because cybersecurity is crucial to almost every aspect of computer and information technology, the field has an abundance of potential career options. As a result, those who hold a master’s in cybersecurity online can potentially pursue a career path that best aligns with their interests.

Computer Network Architect

$126,900*

 Information Security Analysts

$112,000*

 Computer and Information Systems Manager

$164,070*
*Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2022

Why Choose NEC?

New England College (NEC) is a private, nonprofit college founded in 1946 to serve the needs of servicepeople attending college on the GI Bill after World War II and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. Today, NEC is an innovative, military-friendly institution and one of the top five liberal arts colleges in New Hampshire.

NEC offers 60 associate and bachelor’s degrees, as well as more than 20 master’s degrees and one doctoral degree program, all delivered by dedicated faculty focused on giving students opportunities to live what they learn. With access to many clubs, outdoor activities, natural areas, internships, and professor-led trips, NEC students have many ways to meet new people and try new things.

At NEC, the world is your classroom.

Learn More

Recognition and Rankings

Forbesadvisor.com logo for best online colleges in New Hampshire

NEC Ranked Top Online College in New Hampshire

New England College in New Hampshire has earned recognition as one of the best Online Colleges in New Hampshire, as acknowledged by Forbes Advisor, a credible source for evaluating higher education programs.

 

 

 

Intelligent.com logo for Best Online College in New Hampshire

NEC Ranked Top Online Degree Program

New England College in New Hampshire has earned recognition as a leading online college in NH, as acknowledged by Intelligent.com, a credible source for evaluating higher education programs.

 

 

 

 

Edurank logo for best college in New Hampshire

NEC Ranked Top College in New Hampshire

New England College in New Hampshire has earned recognition as a leading college in NH, as acknowledged by EduRank, a credible source for evaluating higher education programs.

 

 

 

Degree Requirements

Download Course Requirements

Faculty

  • Dr. Joan Lawson

    Professor Joan Lawson

    Visiting Assistant Professor MSCIS;
    Program Director, Executive Information Technology & Cybersecurity and Data Science & Analytics
    Office: John Lyons Building
    Email: jlawson@nec.edu

    Educational Background
    EdD in Information Technology, University of the Cumberlands
    MS in Software Engineering with specialization in Database Technologies, Regis University
    BS in Computer Information Systems, Bentley University

    Bio
    Joan Lawson had an extensive career in Information Technology—working in enterprise architecture, IT management, software development, and more—at companies such as IBM, Monster, and Kronos. She has over 15 years as an adjunct professor and completed her doctoral studies to expand her knowledge of the educational environment. Joan joined NEC in 2022 and assumed the role of Program Director in 2023.

    Joan feels very fortunate to have been involved in the evolution of IT. She started with paper tape and punch cards and is now working on artificial intelligence, with so many great experiences on the way. Outside of NEC, Joan loves to travel, cook, quilt, ski, kayak, and camp.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the master’s in Cybersecurity online program?

NEC’s Cybersecurity online master’s program can be completed in as little as 14 months.

 

How is the MS in Cybersecurity online program structured?

NEC’s master’s in Cybersecurity online program consists of 36 credits. Thirty of these credits consist of required cybersecurity courses. Students earn the remaining six credits from cybersecurity electives of their choosing.

 

What are the benefits of a Cybersecurity online master’s degree?

By earning a master’s in Cybersecurity online, individuals can pursue a wide range of cybersecurity professions, including positions of leadership. This can also potentially deliver an earnings boost. According to the compensation website Payscale, the median annual salary for those with an MS in Cybersecurity was $94,000 as of August 2023.

 

How do I enroll in the master’s in Cybersecurity online program?

Individuals can enroll in the MS in Cybersecurity online by applying directly on NEC’s website. NEC does not charge an application fee, nor do we require standardized test scores.

Start Your Application

Cybersecurity that is effective, efficient, robust, and forward-thinking is needed now more than ever in our expanding digital world. Those who earn their master’s in Cybersecurity online can position themselves as leaders in this crucial field, consistently staying one step ahead of cyber criminals as their tactics and techniques evolve.

Learn how NEC can prepare you to play a pivotal role in the ongoing battle against cybercrime.

Apply Now
Launch Experience

Your Future Starts at NEC

APPLY TO NEC VIEW A VIRTUAL TOUR