Academic Programs

Academic ProgramsSecurity and Resilience Studies

College of Social Sciences and Humanities

Master of Science in Security and Resilience Studies — Arlington

Master’s Degree

We live in a world of increasing transnational risks, systemic vulnerabilities, and environmental challenges. Our Master of Science in Security and Resilience Studies program provides skills in data analysis, leadership, and systemic thinking to help the next generation of leaders build organizations, communities, and societies that can withstand forthcoming challenges.

Application fees will be waived for applications to the Master of Science in Security and Resilience Studies and Master of Public Policy programs at Northeastern University’s Arlington campus.

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Location

Arlington, Virginia

Commitment

Full-Time/Part-Time

Duration

1-2 Years

Type

Hybrid/Classroom

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Security and Resilience Studies is a first-of-its-kind graduate degree program that integrates traditional security studies with a focus on maximizing system and societal resilience. Resilience is defined as the capacity of individuals, communities, institutions, businesses, and systems within a community to survive, adapt, and grow despite environmental and societal threats, stresses, and shocks.

In the 21st century, threats of all kinds are challenging communities, companies, and countries. These threats include terrorism, cyberattacks, natural disasters, migration, bioterrorism, climate change, and pandemics. Each pose immediate and real social, economic, and physical challenges. There is an urgent need for professionals who can provide support to private and public organizations to better prepare for, withstand, rapidly recover from, and adapt to disruptive events.

Graduates of the program are able to deploy strategic systemic approaches to resilience and security, and are prepared for multiple career opportunities leading multiagency, multi-community collaboration/planning and implementation efforts for private companies, nonprofits, and government organizations.

Unique Features

Gain real-world experience: Participate in co-ops, individually tailored capstones with real-life client institutions like Logan Airport and the U.S. Marshal Service, and have the option to engage in extended research projects with faculty.
- Past student co-ops have included Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Climate XChange, the Global Resilience Institute, and Apex Systems.
Breakthrough study of resilience: Unlike other programs this degree has a unique focus on the emerging study of resilience.
- A cutting-edge curriculum allows students to understand not only policy, but a wide variety of technical areas that must work with policy in order to build resilience including civil and environmental engineering, cybersecurity, and building and system design.
Access to multiple research centers: Students have access to the Global Resilience Institute, The Social Impact Lab, and the Dukakis Center for Urban and Regional Policy.
Learn from distinguished faculty: Faculty are renowned security and resilience experts who have advised presidents, Congress, and key security organizations.
Tailor your degree to your career goals and passions: Choose a mix of classes from one of five elective themes:
- Administration Management and Policy
- Counterterrorism and Conflict Studies
- Cybersecurity Policy
- Resilient Cities
- Criminal Justice
Select courses are offered online

Tuition and Aid

Tuition

$46.2K

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2021-2022 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time.

Find detailed information on tuition and fees from Student Financial Services.

Finance Your Education

We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships. Learn more from Student Financial Services.

Curriculum

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View course catalog

Experiential Learning

Northeastern’s signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.

Admission Dates

deadlines

Recommended deadline for Fall 2023:

August 15, 2023

How to Apply

Learn more about the College of Social Sciences and Humanities’ admissions process and required materials.

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