PhD in Cybersecurity
The PhD in Cybersecurity prepares future researchers, faculty members, and policy advisors to advance the reliability and security of data networks and information systems. Explore the intersection of technology, law, policy, and human behavior as you learn to implement security measures against global threats. Whether you’re aiming for academia, industry, or government work, you’ll graduate as a sought-after expert ready for a successful career.
Become a leader in the field
Career prospects across industry and academia
A PhD in Cybersecurity opens doors to diverse and high-demand careers. Graduates can excel in various roles, including:
- Tenure-track faculty
- Policy advisor
- Information security officer
- Security consultant or threat intelligence analyst
- Research scientist
Research with world-class faculty
Collaborate with world-class researchers in state-of-the-art facilities, including our Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute, International Secure Systems Lab, and ALERT Center.
Internships with industry leaders
You can gain industry exposure, build important connections, and form new perspectives on the impact of your work through internship opportunities at forward-thinking companies like:
- Meta
- MITRE
- MIT Lincoln Laboratory
- Sony
- Qualcomm
Graduate assistantships and fellowships
Northeastern University and Khoury College of Computer Sciences offer a number ways to help finance your PhD education, including funding packages and fellowships. Financial support varies based on program and research funding availability.
Learning outcomes
Students graduating with a PhD in Cybersecurity will learn to:
- Identify, formulate, and solve complex problems related to cybersecurity and privacy.
- Explain and apply cybersecurity design principles.
- Develop solutions that meet specified end-user needs with consideration of security, privacy, safety, and welfare.
- Produce and defend original cybersecurity research
- Communicate research results orally and in writing
Stories from our students
PhD student Johanna Gunawan came to Khoury College for the Align Master’s program in Cybersecurity. After completing the program, she started a research project studying the intersection of law, computer science, and internet interfaces. She describes her interdisciplinary educational journey as one she never expected to have, but “really a rewarding experience.”
Campus location
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Boston
Located in the heart of Boston, Northeastern’s oldest campus is home to a vibrant community of students, researchers, and faculty working across disciplines to build a better world through CS.
Applications and admissions
Deadline: December 15 for fall admission
Virtual information sessions
The Khoury PhD Admissions Committee will hold virtual information sessions in fall 2025. Six sessions focus on specific research areas, and faculty presenters will discuss specific research opportunities in those areas. One session will provide a special focus on Khoury College’s efforts to support applicants from underrepresented groups in computing. These sessions allow applicants to share their concerns about the application process and get connected to resources and support. Attendees will also be provided a special code that waives the program application fee.
Advance registration is required.
How to apply
Our PhD Apply page has everything you need to know about applying to the PhD in Cybersecurity program at Khoury College, including:
- Admissions requirements
- Application deadline
- Resources and contact information
Advanced entry
If you have already completed an MS in Cybersecurity or have a master’s degree in a related field, you may petition for advanced entry. Petitions are reviewed by the graduate program administration on a case-by-case basis.
Have questions?
Contact the graduate admissions team
Meet our faculty
Get to know the engaged, experienced professors who are here to support you every step of the way.
Aanjhan Ranganathan
Aanjhan Ranganathan is an assistant professor at Khoury College. His research encompasses physical-layer security of wireless systems, secure localization and proximity verification, trusted computing architectures, and side channels.
Institutes and Centers
Where engaged students, expert faculty, experienced research scientists, and industry and government partners work together to solve big challenges.
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