Math 581 syllabus

Cryptography

 

 
Course Description: This course provides an introduction to classical and modern methods of message encryption and decryption (cryptography) as well as possible attacks to cryptosystems (cryptanalysis). Topics include classical (symmetric) cryptosystems (DES, AES), public-key (asymmetric) cryptosystems (Diffie-Hellman, RSA, ElGamal), modes of operation, one-way and trapdoor functions, Hash functions, cryptographic protocols. Credit for both MA 481 and MA 581 is not allowed.
Prerequisites: C or better in MA 311 

Suggested Text: Introduction to Cryptography with Coding Theory by Wade Trappe and Lawrence C. Washington, Second Edition, Pearson Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ, 2006

Learning outcomes: Upon the successful completion of the course a student will:
Be familiar with several techniques for message encryption and decryption as well as possible attacks to cryptosystems.
Know how mathematics can be used to protect data and make electronic systems secure. 
Know the importance of pure mathematics, especially number theory and algebra, in our current world.