CSCI 605 Applied Cryptography

This course covers topics in modern cryptography with an emphasis on learning how to implement cryptographic protocols using mainstream cryptographic libraries such as OpenSSI.

For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.

Course Guide

View this course’s outcomes, policies, schedule, and more.*

*The information contained in our Course Guides is provided as a sample. Specific course curriculum and requirements for each course are provided by individual instructors each semester. Students should not use Course Guides to find and complete assignments, class prerequisites, or order books.


This course offers an introduction to the mathematical foundation and primary building blocks of the field of cryptography. In today’s interconnected world, it is more important than ever to keep our data safe. The student will learn what techniques are used to keep information secure and confidential, as well as its limitations. Mathematical rigor is emphasized; however, the primary thrust of the course is to enable the student to develop cryptographically secure code.


Textbook readings and lecture presentations

No details available.

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in Course Overview.

Discussions (4)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to provide a thread in response to the provided prompt for each Discussion. Each thread must be at least 300 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 other classmates’ threads. Each reply must be at least 150 words. All assertions in the thread and replies must be supported by course materials, good examples, thoughtful analysis, and at least 2 scholarly resources. All sources must be cited in current APA format.

Article Review Paper Assignments (2)

The student will complete 2 research papers based on scholarly articles related to the topic of cryptography. These research papers should be based on scholarly articles, which means that the student is expected to consult and analyze academic sources that provide authoritative and rigorous information on the subject matter. Each research paper will include a minimum of 750 words, a combination of at least 7 scholarly articles or books as references, and adhere to current APA format. Each paper should include an introduction, article overview, list of research questions, topic research, and a conclusion. Each paper must contain a cover page, table of contents, appendices, and bibliography.

Lab: Cryptography Assignments (3)

The student will complete 3 assigned lab reports after completing the assigned labs. The student must utilize the provided templates and submit their complete lab reports into Canvas.

Quizzes (2)

Each quiz will cover the Reading & Study material for the module/week in which it is assigned. Each quiz will be open-book/open-notes, contain 10 multiple-choice or short answer questions, have a 1-hour time limit, and allow for 1 attempt.

Quiz: Midterm Exam

The Quiz: Midterm Exam will cover the course material from the first half of the course. The exam will be open-book/open-notes, contain 24 multiple choice and 2 short answer questions, have a 2-hour time limit, and allow for 1 attempt.

Quiz: Final Exam

The Quiz: Final Exam will cover all the course material for the entire course. The exam will be open-book/open-notes, contain 24 multiple choice and 2 short answer questions, have a 2-hour time limit, and allow for 1 attempt.


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