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Springfield Technical Community College
Springfield, MAPublic
$600
Tuition/yr
32%
Grad rate
75.5
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best information security degree programs: Northeastern, Bentley, College of Our Lady of th...
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $576 to $66,410/year
Springfield Technical Com... offers the most affordable option at $600/yr
Information Security degree programs available: 8 associate's, 6 master's, 1 doctoral in Massachusetts
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
6 online information security degree programs in Massachusetts
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Massachusetts community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
8 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Amazon, Google, HubSpot, Wayfair
Tech hubs in Boston and Cambridge
Hakia Research 2026
Information Security degree programs near 75+ cities across Massachusetts
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Massachusetts Information Security programs
We rank 20 accredited information security programs in Massachusetts using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Information Security Degree Programs in Massachusetts Worth It?
Answer
$128,640
Yes. The best information security degree programs in Massachusetts deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $128,640 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $32,115/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Information Security Degree Rankings in Massachusetts
Compare the top-ranked Information Security programs in Massachusetts by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Information Security Programs in Massachusetts
7
Programs ranked
$1,317
Avg tuition/yr
23%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Massachusetts offers 8 accredited associate's degree programs in information security, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Springfield Technical Com..., Quinsigamond Community Co..., Northern Essex Community ..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Massachusetts offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $1,248/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $70,752 in Massachusetts.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Massachusetts's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Boston, Cambridge, Worcester areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Amazon, Google, HubSpot hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among information security schools in Massachusetts, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information security degrees in Massachusetts.
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Massachusetts Bay Community College | Wellesley Hills, MA | Public | $576 | 17% | 62.5 |
| #7 | North Shore Community College | Danvers, MA | Public | $600 | 18% | 61.8 |
Best Bachelor's Information Security Programs in Massachusetts
5
Programs ranked
$51,954
Avg tuition/yr
78%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Massachusetts ranks among the nation's top destinations for information security education, with 5 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 0 public and 5 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Northeastern, Bentley, College of Our Lady of th..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Massachusetts information security programs earn a median salary of $109,344, 11% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Boston, Cambridge, Worcester metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Amazon, Google, HubSpot.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $40,095 to $62,000 annually, with an average of $49,841/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 93%, with the highest reaching 99%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Massachusetts's leading technology employers. For students seeking information security degrees in Massachusetts, these top-ranked information security schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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Northeastern University
Boston, MAPrivate nonprofit
The Center for Health Policy and Law at Northeastern University School of Law$64,990
Tuition/yr
91%
Grad rate
95.2
Hakia Score
#4
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Boston, MAPrivate nonprofit
$41,984
Tuition/yr
68%
Grad rate
75.5
Hakia Score
#5
College of Our Lady of the Elms
Chicopee, MAPrivate nonprofit
$41,300
Tuition/yr
68%
Grad rate
74.2
Hakia Score
Best Master's Information Security Programs in Massachusetts
6
Programs ranked
$64,409
Avg tuition/yr
92%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Massachusetts offers 6 master's degree programs in information security, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Northeastern, Boston College, Tufts, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $128,640, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Boston, Cambridge, Worcester creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Amazon, Google, HubSpot actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $63,479/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Massachusetts's information security schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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Northeastern University
Boston, MAPrivate nonprofit
The Center for Health Policy and Law at Northeastern University School of Law$64,990
Tuition/yr
91%
Grad rate
94.5
Hakia Score
#4
$66,670
Tuition/yr
89%
Grad rate
90.6
Hakia Score
#5
$69,146
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad rate
90.5
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Worcester, MA | Private nonprofit | $59,700 | 90% | 83.6 |
Best Doctoral Information Security Programs in Massachusetts
1
Programs ranked
$64,990
Avg tuition/yr
91%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Massachusetts is home to 1 doctoral programs in information security, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Northeastern are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Massachusetts PhD holders earning a median of $160,800, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Boston, Cambridge, Worcester region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Amazon, Google, HubSpot.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Massachusetts programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing information security degrees in Massachusetts, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Information Security Degree Costs & Tuition in Massachusetts
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $32,115/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $80,288/year |
| Community college tuition | $8,029/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $192,692 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $48,172 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Security Students in Massachusetts
State Aid Programs
Massachusetts offers substantial financial aid opportunities for information security students through state-specific programs and federal assistance. The MASSGrant provides need-based aid to Massachusetts residents attending approved institutions within the state. Students can receive up to $1,600 annually through this program, with awards based on family income and enrollment status. The MassTech Intern Partnership provides additional financial support by offering companies reimbursement of up to $3,200 per intern, enabling more paid internship opportunities (MassTech Intern Partnership).
Key Programs & Amounts
Merit-based scholarships target high-achieving students in STEM fields, with many Massachusetts universities offering specific awards for cybersecurity and computer science majors. The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative supports workforce development through various grant programs that benefit students in priority technology sectors. Private foundations and industry organizations also provide scholarship opportunities specifically for cybersecurity students pursuing careers in defense, financial services, or healthcare information security.
Institutional Scholarships
Work-study programs and research assistantships provide additional funding while giving students valuable experience in their field. The Massachusetts Tech Connect program allocates $400,000 annually to support internship programs at community colleges and associate degree institutions (Massachusetts Tech Connect Program). Students should explore the comprehensive financial aid guide to understand all available funding options and application procedures for maximizing their educational investment.
Information Security Degree ROI Calculator, Massachusetts
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information security degree in Massachusetts. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Information Security Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a information security degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1064%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,967,896
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$100,000
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,003,304
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Boston, MA)$155,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.5%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Information Security Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Massachusetts metro areas
Boston$142K
Cambridge$135K
Worcester$129K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Boston | $142K |
| Cambridge | $135K |
| Worcester | $129K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Information Security Graduates in Massachusetts
Find information security jobs in Massachusetts. These major employers across Massachusetts metro areas are actively hiring information security degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Information Security Jobs in Boston/Cambridge
MABoston/Cambridge is a biotech and AI research hub, anchored by MIT, Harvard, and major tech company R&D centers.
Nearby cities: Cambridge, Somerville, Waltham, Burlington, Quincy
Transfer Pathways for Information Security Degrees in Massachusetts
State Transfer System
Massachusetts community colleges maintain formal transfer agreements with state universities, creating clear pathways for information security students. The Massachusetts Transfer Pathways program ensures that students completing associate degrees in computer science or related fields can seamlessly continue their education at four-year institutions. Core courses in mathematics, programming, and general education requirements transfer directly, allowing students to complete bachelor's degrees in four total years.
How Transfers Work
Many programs offer 2+2 agreements where students complete their first two years at community colleges and finish their information security degrees at universities. This approach significantly reduces educational costs while maintaining program quality. Transfer students often find that their community college experience provides strong foundational skills that prepare them for advanced coursework. The most affordable programs information security frequently use these transfer pathways to maximize educational value while minimizing student debt.
Why Pursue an Information Security Degree in Massachusetts?
Industry & Workforce
Massachusetts stands as a premier destination for information security education, driven by the state's position as a major technology hub. The Bay Area alone accounts for 13% of all AI-related job postings nationally, but Massachusetts is one of the key emerging metro areas expanding AI and cybersecurity opportunities (Brookings AI Economy Mapping). Software developers and technology professionals in Massachusetts earn competitive salaries, with strong job growth projected across the tech sector (BLS Software Developers Occupational Outlook).
Salary Outlook
The state's concentration of world-renowned universities, research institutions, and established tech companies creates an ideal learning environment for cybersecurity students. Cambridge alone houses multiple major employers across technology and innovation sectors, providing abundant internship and career opportunities (Cambridge Top 25 Employers). Massachusetts companies actively invest in student development through programs like the MassTech Intern Partnership, which reimburses companies up to $3,200 per intern annually.
Regional Tech Hubs
Students benefit from Massachusetts's focus on priority technology sectors including cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and quantum technology. The state's information security programs prepare graduates for high-demand roles in these growing fields. Compared to traditional tech hubs, Massachusetts offers a more affordable cost of living while maintaining access to top-tier employers and software developer career paths across multiple industries.
Information Security Job Growth in Massachusetts
15%
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for information security occupations in Massachusetts through 2024-2034. The median salary stands at $128,640 with 18 accredited programs statewide.
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook
Information Security Job Market & Salary Data in Massachusetts
Employment Outlook
Massachusetts has positioned itself as a leading destination for cybersecurity professionals, with the state experiencing significant growth in AI-related and cybersecurity job postings. The region benefits from being identified as one of the emerging metro areas expanding beyond traditional tech centers like the Bay Area (Brookings AI Economy Mapping). Software developers and related technology roles show strong employment prospects, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting continued growth in computer and information technology occupations (BLS Software Developers Occupational Outlook).
Salaries by Metro
Cambridge serves as a major employment center, with numerous technology companies among the city's top 25 employers providing consistent hiring opportunities for cybersecurity graduates (Cambridge Top 25 Employers). The Massachusetts technology sector spans diverse industries from biotechnology to financial services, creating varied career paths for information security professionals. Companies in priority sectors including cybersecurity, fintech, and advanced manufacturing actively recruit talent through state-supported internship programs.
High-Growth Sectors
Remote work opportunities have expanded significantly, allowing Massachusetts-based cybersecurity professionals to access national job markets while maintaining lower living costs than traditional tech hubs. The state's emphasis on data scientist roles and emerging technologies creates crossover opportunities for information security specialists. Students can explore both traditional cybersecurity paths and specialized roles in quantum computing, robotics, and digital health sectors that define Massachusetts's tech economy.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Massachusetts$83,616$186,528
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Information Security Programs in Massachusetts
Online Programs
6 available in Massachusetts
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$28,904/yr$32,115/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Information Security Programs in Other States
Best Information Security Degree Programs in New Hampshire
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $15,500
Best Information Security Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 57
- Median Tuition
- $17,800
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Connecticut
- Total Programs
- 7
- Median Tuition
- $44,100
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Rhode Island
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $33,200
Best Information Security Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 39
- Median Tuition
- $1,300
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 30
- Median Tuition
- $4,300
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 48
- Median Tuition
- $6,200
Information Security Degree Programs in Massachusetts: FAQ
What are the best information security degree programs in Massachusetts?
The best information security degree programs in Massachusetts based on our methodology are: 1) Northeastern University (highly ranked), 2) Bentley University, and 3) College of Our Lady of the Elms. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Massachusetts offers 18 total accredited programs across 8 public and 10 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 5 bachelor's programs.
How much do information security degree programs cost in Massachusetts?
Information Security degree program costs in Massachusetts vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $32,115/year, while private institutions average $70,653/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $8,029/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $128,460 at public schools to $282,612 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can information security degree graduates earn in Massachusetts?
Information Security professionals in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $128,640, which is 11% above the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $83,616, while senior roles exceed $186,528. Salaries vary by metro area: Boston ($141,504), Cambridge ($135,072) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online information security degree programs in Massachusetts?
Yes, Massachusetts offers 6 accredited online Information Security programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Quinsigamond Community College and Northern Essex Community College. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire information security degree graduates in Massachusetts?
Major Information Security employers in Massachusetts include Amazon, Google, HubSpot, Wayfair, Toast. The Boston and Cambridge metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Massachusetts universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Massachusetts's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information security degree program worth it in Massachusetts?
An information security degree program in Massachusetts offers strong ROI with a $128,640 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $32,115/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($145,363), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do information security degree programs take in Massachusetts?
Standard completion times for information security degree programs in Massachusetts are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Massachusetts community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Massachusetts university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information security degree students in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts information security degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Massachusetts state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Massachusetts's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Massachusetts salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.