Overview

The Security Studies programme at the University of Massachusetts Lowell provides students with the advanced technical and analytical expertise required to combat modern global threats. This Master of Science degree focuses on high-level risk assessment, intelligence operations, and the protection of vital national infrastructure.

Why Security Studies at the University of Massachusetts Lowell?

The university is a recognised leader in the field, with its online criminal justice and security offerings ranked among the top three programmes nationally by U.S. News & World Report. Students benefit from the expertise of nationally recognised scholars and practitioners who bring extensive experience from the defense and intelligence sectors.

Learning is supported by the University of Massachusetts Lowell Center for Terrorism and Security Studies, which provides unique research opportunities and internships. The institution is also ranked first for lifetime return on investment among public research universities in the state, ensuring a high-quality and cost-effective education.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 28398 per year
National fee: USD 28398 per year
Local fee: USD 16186 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of 30 credits, including six core courses and four electives. Modules may include:

Systems Security and Auditing
Digital Forensics
Network and Systems Administration
Secure Mobile Networks
Virtual Systems
Network Infrastructures
Cloud Computing
Advanced Cloud Computing
Intrusion Detection Systems
Advanced Research in Terrorism
Hazmat Transportation
Crisis and Emergency Management
Transportation System Security and Safety
Exposure and Risk Assessment
Biosensors
Infectious Disease
Epidemiology
Radiological Safety and Control I
Radiation Biology

Careers with Security Studies

Graduates are prepared for success within federal, state, and local intelligence agencies, as well as the private defense sector. The programme equips students with the professional communication and critical analysis skills necessary for high-level roles in homeland security and global policy.

Common career paths for alumni include roles such as Cybersecurity Analyst, Homeland Security Specialist, and Intelligence Officer. Others find success as Emergency Management Directors, Security Consultants, Policy Advisors, or Risk Managers within international organisations and private corporations.

Programme Structure

Courses offered:

Contemporary Security Studies

Intelligence Analysis: Policy and Practice

Scientific and Technological Dimensions of National Security

Research Design

Security Studies Capstone Research Paper

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months
Part-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-04 00:00:00

Apply anytime.
Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00

Apply anytime.

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

Lowell, United States

Disciplines

Terrorism & Security Cyber Security View 161 other Masters in Terrorism & Security in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

Submitted online application

Completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution of higher education

M.A. degree: A wide variety of undergraduate bachelor’s degree programs will qualify, particularly those in the behavioral and social sciences (such as political science, sociology, criminal justice, psychology, history, international relations, and many others)

M.S. degree: Should have a major in a science, technology or engineering discipline - graduates of bachelor's degree programs in behavioral and social sciences will also be considered on a case-by-case basis

Official transcript from previously earned degrees

Official score from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) result is optional.

2 letters of recommendation

Statement of purpose

$50 application fee

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

28398 USD / year

≈ 28398 USD / year
Out-of-State

28398 USD / year

≈ 28398 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

16186 USD / year

≈ 16186 USD / year

Living costs

Lowell

United States

1130 - 2341 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Security Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Lowell

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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