Master's Program

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In the Master of Science in Complex Network Analysis program, students will build a strong foundation in complex network analysis, supplemented by domain-specific coursework in one of four specializations.

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Join us for an engaging information session on Northeastern University's new Master of Science in Complex Network Analysis. Learn how this forward-thinking program is equipping the next generation of decision-makers with the skills needed to thrive in a data-driven, interconnected, and AI-powered world.

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Complex network analysis is the quantitative study of interconnected systems that influence every aspect of our lives — from where we get our news and who we share ideas with, to how we travel and the people we interact with, to the products we purchase and the foods we eat. Northeastern University’s Master of Science in Complex Network Analysis equips students with the conceptual and analytical tools needed to find and analyze patterns of connections in networked systems and apply these techniques to solve real-world problems.

Program Details

Duration: 24 months
34-38 credit degree program
F1 Compliant Program
Admissions Deadlines
○ August 1, 2025 (domestic)
○ July 1, 2025 (international)
Interdisciplinary Training
○ Four concentration areas
Research/Professional Focus
Foundations Coursework
  • Fundamentals of Complex Networks
  • Analyzing Complex Network Data
  • Advanced Tools for Complex Network Analysis
  • Visualizing Complex Networks
  • Communicating Network Data
Domain-specific Concentrations
  • Complex Social Systems
  • Economic and Technological Networks
  • Population Health Dynamics
  • Complex Biological Networks
Experiential Learning
  • Industry co-op internships
  • Research lab rotations
  • 2-credit "mastery" courses
  • Thesis optional

Required Foundations Core (16 credits)

CNET 5050 | Fundamentals of Complex Networks (4 credits)
CNET 5051 | Analyzing Complex Network Data (4 credits) 
CNET 5052 | Advanced Tools for Complex Network Analysis (4 credits)
CNET 5901 | Visualizing Complex Networks (2 credits)
CNET 5902 | Communicating Network Data (2 credits)

Concentration Core (10-12 credits)

Population Health Dynamics Concentration  +

The Population Health Dynamics concentration trains you to understand how diseases move through populations—and how to stop them. You’ll build a foundation in network science, biostatistics, epidemiology, and health informatics, applying those skills to real-world challenges like modeling outbreaks and designing smarter interventions. Learn from faculty who collaborate with leading public health agencies, and graduate ready to shape policy, improve outcomes, and make meaningful impact in global health.

Complex Social Systems Concentration  +

Social connections shape everything—from the way we communicate to how cities move. In the Complex Social Systems concentration, students use powerful data and network tools to decode patterns in human behavior, online influence, and urban life. Whether it’s tracking misinformation or modeling crowd dynamics, this concentration trains students to understand—and shape—the social systems of tomorrow.

Economic and Technological Networks Concentration  +

Business and finance are more connected than ever—and complex network analysis is the key to making sense of it all. From cryptocurrencies to global supply chains, this concentration trains students to predict trends, prevent failures, and harness economic networks for good. With coursework in financial networks, econometrics, and AI, students gain the tools to lead in today’s dynamic market landscape.

Complex Biological Networks Concentration  +

Biological systems—from genes to ecosystems—are governed by networks. The Complex Biological Networks concentration trains students to model and analyze these systems at multiple scales, with tools from network science, bioinformatics, computational biology, and network medicine. With faculty engaged in cutting-edge research across hospitals, biotech, and global research institutes, students are prepared to lead in biomedical discovery, personalized therapeutics, and environmental science.


Interdisciplinary Concentration Mastery (4 credits)

CNET 6061 | Analyzing Higher Order Networks (2 credits)
CNET 6063 | Probabilistic Mathematics of Networks (2 credits)
CNET 6099 | Special Topics in Complex Networks (2 credits)
CNET **** | Core course from different concentration (4 credits)

Experiential Courses: Select 2 courses (4 credits)

Select 2 courses:

CNET 6107 | Complex Network Analysis Research Rotation (2 credits)
CNET 6108 | Complex Network Analysis Capstone (2 credits)
CNET 6990 | Complex Network Analysis Thesis (2 credits)

(Optional) Professional/Research Co-op

CNET 6000 | Professional Development for Co-op (1 credits)
CNET 6964 | Complex Network Analysis Co-op (0 credits)

Informational Webinars

Join us for an engaging information session on Northeastern University's new Master of Science in Complex Network Analysis. Learn how this forward-thinking program is equipping the next generation of decision-makers with the skills needed to thrive in a data-driven, interconnected, and AI-powered world.

Resources

Program curriculum

Contact

 617.373.8856