MATH 311 - Mathematical Cryptography

Credits: (3)

Instructional Method: Lecture
Prerequisites: Either MATH 171 (Calculus I) or MATH 169 (Calculus I with Integrated Precalculus II); MATH 260 (Linear Algebra) recommended.
Exploration of the mathematical principles underlying modern cryptography and data security. Topics include modular arithmetic, number theory, linear algebra, symmetric and public-key encryption, digital signatures, and hash functions. Emphasis is placed on the mathematical structures and algorithms that ensure confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity in digital communication. Given the fact that cryptographic algorithms are highly computational in nature, the use of a programming language and/or symbolic manipulator will be implemented throughout the course to demonstrate realistic examples.