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 forum. 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 Reading & Study materials, good examples, thoughtful analysis, and at least 2 scholarly resources.

Lab Assignments (3)

The student will complete the assigned lab reports after completing the assigned labs.

Article Review Paper Assignments (2)

The student will complete research papers based on scholarly articles related to the topic of cryptography. Each research paper will include a minimum of 750 words, 7 citations, and adhere to APA format.

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 should have a minimum word count of 750 words. This word count requirement ensures that the student delves into the topic sufficiently and demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the concepts and principles of cryptography. It also allows for a detailed exploration of the chosen subtopics or aspects within cryptography.

Additionally, the research papers should include a minimum of 7 citations. The minimum requirement of 7 citations encourages the student to consult a variety of sources and incorporate multiple perspectives into his/her research paper.

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, and have a 1-hour time limit.

Quiz: Midterm Exam

The Midterm Exam will cover the Reading & Study material from the first half of the course. The exam will be open-book/open-notes, contain 26 true/false, multiple choice, and short answer questions, and have a 2-hour time limit.

Quiz: Final Exam

The Final Exam will cover all the Reading & Study material for the course. The exam will be open-book/open-notes, contain 26 true/false, multiple choice, and short answer questions, and have a 2-hour time limit.


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