COSC 350: Codes and Ciphers

An Introduction to Cryptography and Its Applications


This course will describe the basic principles of cryptography and how it is used in modern computer and communication systems. It will cover simple ciphers, modern ciphers, public-key cryptography, key management, cryptanalysis, and steganography. Students will learn how cryptography is used for message secrecy, integrity, authentication, and digital signatures. Application areas to be discussed include e-mail, files, network communications, and electronic payments. Students need some math and computer skills.

Offered: Spring term, 3 credits

Professor: Dorothy E. Denning