Align MS at Khoury College
Break into tech with no CS experience
Launch your tech career today
The Align master’s program brings together creative thinkers from more than 150 disciplines to learn computer science or data science for the first time — and launch a career in tech.
You don’t need a background in tech to have a future in it. You just need the Align program. In as little as 2 1/2 years, nonmajors can earn a master’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or data science through the Align program. All you need is a bachelor’s degree (in any discipline), drive, and a fresh perspective.
This is Align
Watch this video to learn about the unique opportunity that the Align program offers for all students from nontechnical backgrounds — not just computer science majors.
Find the program that’s right for you
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Align MS in Computer Science
The Align MS in Computer Science will prepare you to break into tech, without a computer science background.
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Align MS in Computer Science Online
The Align MS in Computer Science Online offers a flexible online format with three in-person residences to prepare you to break into tech, without a computer science background.
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Align MS in Data Science
The Align MS in Data Science will teach you the skills to harness the power of data, even without a tech background.
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Align MS in Cybersecurity
The Align MS in Cybersecurity was designed to give you access to incredible career opportunities even if you didn’t major in CS or cybersecurity.
More than 11 years of strong outcomes for Align graduates
The Align program has graduated more than 1,550 students since it was launched 11 years ago. Our alums are well positioned for roles at the most competitive global companies.
Watch this video to learn about the partnership between Amazon Web Services and Khoury College, and how Khoury students benefit.
Choosing between computer science and data science
Northeastern offers Align computer and data science master’s for nonmajors and those with no tech experience. See which program is right for you.
Computer Science
Are you excited about the prospect of creating something new? Can you think of a problem that might be addressed by a technological solution? Would you like to build this solution from the ground up? An Align master’s in computer science (MSCS) might be the path for you.
Data Science
Would you enjoy opening up a world of possibilities with a new set of analytical tools? Would you like to be able to break down data in real time to help find new solutions? Consider pursuing an Align master’s in data science.
How the Align program works, semester by semester
- Full-time or part-time cybersecurity, computer, or data science master’s for nonmajors
- In person on one of our eight campuses; MSCS is also available online
- 2 1/2 years (full time; students typically enroll in three semesters per year: fall, spring, summer)
- Funding is available through a combination of paid, full-time co-op or internship placements, teaching assistant and tutor positions, Federal Student Aid,* and scholarships from corporate partners
- Application
*Applies to domestic students on US campuses
Financial support for master’s students
Attend a Break Into Tech event
Learn if Align is right for you — experience cypersecurity, computer science, and data science in action to see how they apply to your everyday life. This event (virtual or in person) gives you a chance to participate in a real project with diverse learners without experience in tech and explore how your point of view could help shape the industry.
Gain hands-on tech experience in a co-op or internship
Northeastern is known for connecting academic learning to real-world projects and work experiences. In the Align program, you’ll get to put your new tech skills into practice as you learn them. This program gives you the option to hold a paid, full-time computer or data science co-op or internship of up to eight months in fields as varied as traditional tech, health care, music, and more.
Learn in a dynamic and supportive community
You’ll learn from talented faculty who love teaching students from outside the tech industry. You’ll be part of a cohort of students with a wide range of backgrounds but a shared interest in collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving.
- 150+ disciplines represented, including history, business, biology, political science, and more
- 55% identify as female (fall 2023)
- 15% identify as a race or ethnicity historically underrepresented in the tech industry (domestic students, fall 2023)
Watch this video to learn about Khoury Graduate Recruitment Ambassadors — the graduate students who support their peers through programming, one-on-one advising, and feedback provided to faculty and staff.
There aren’t a lot of programs like Align, for somebody who has a nontraditional background … I’d really love to build products that will, across the board, improve the lives of everyone, regardless of race, class, creed. If done correctly, technology has the ability to do that
— Bethlehem “Betty” Mesfin, Align MSCS ’22/’23
Meet Align students and graduates across our campuses
8 campus locations
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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.
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Arlington
The tech hub of the National Capital Region, Arlington offers rich opportunities with thriving companies such as Amazon and Microsoft.
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Miami
Miami is a bold and creative city — the perfect place to push the boundaries of tech. Come find out what’s possible here.
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Oakland
Tech companies in Oakland benefit from a diverse and creative local ecosystem with easy access to Silicon Valley resources — providing a massive opportunity for CS education and research.
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Portland
The collaborative nature of Northeastern’s Roux Institute in Portland connects students with corporate and governmental power players across the Northeast, and beyond.
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Seattle
The Seattle campus partners with industry, government, and academia to bring programs in high-growth fields to the Pacific Northwest — becoming a valuable part of the region’s economy in the process.
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Silicon Valley
Located in the heart of the tech revolution (and where it began), the San Jose campus offers students the opportunities to advance the CS field in a program known for industry connections and diverse work opportunities.
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Vancouver
Vancouver students gain skills and explore partnerships within a regional network that offers experiential and professional opportunities in leading-edge sectors such as AI, e-commerce, financial technology, and more.
