Cryptography and Society

MATH 165FS

Introduction to topics in mathematical cryptography, and the role of cryptography within society, in both historic and modern contexts. Cryptographic systems studied will include: early historical ciphers; the Enigma machines of WWII; modern public channel cryptography. Students will learn: to encode/decode using each system; to quantify the complexity, strength, and weaknesses of each system; to use elementary techniques from combinatorics, graph theory, abstract algebra, and number theory; about the role cryptography plays in human society. Open only to students in the Focus Program. Department consent required.

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MTH 165FS: Cryptography and Society
Curriculum Codes
  • STS
  • W
  • QS
Cross-Listed As
  • SCISOC 165FS
Typically Offered
Fall Only