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Cryptology ,Certificate

Cryptology, Certificate

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / Cryptology

Ciphers, Codes, Encryption, analysis, math, numbers, theory

Cryptology is necessary everywhere in today's technological world. Want to learn how to protect personal, financial and sensitive public-sector information through encryption? Prepare for a career in national security, communication systems, electronic banking, internet commerce and just about any field that requires securing data.
Program description ▲

Cryptology is the art and science of making and breaking codes and ciphers. The certificate program in cryptology is designed to provide a strong foundation in the mathematical topics that are most applicable to modern cryptosystems. Students also gain specialized knowledge required for understanding and working in the field of mathematical cryptology.

At a glance ▲
  • Second language requirement: No
  • STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

Curriculum ▲

Concurrent program options▲
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Degree requirements ▲

This certificate requires 18 credit hours.

Required courses: (12 credit hours)

MAT 440 Group Theory (3) or MAT 444 Intermediate Abstract Algebra (3)
MAT 445 Theory of Numbers (3)
MAT 447 Cryptography I (3)
MAT 448 Cryptography II (3)

Electives: (6 credit hours; select two courses)*

MAT 415 Introduction to Combinatorics (3)
MAT 416 Introduction to Graph Theory (3)
MAT 441 Ring Theory (3)
STP 421 Probability (3)
STP 427 Mathematical Statistics (3)

*may substitute MAT 484 Internship (3) (approved cryptology-related internship experience) for one elective

A "C" (2.00 on a 4.00 scale) or better is required in all upper-division course work.

Depending upon a student's undergraduate program of study, prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this certificate.

Admission requirements ▲

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Additional requirements:

This program has additional admission requirements; students should see a college advisor for details. Applicants should be in good academic standing with a "B" or better (scale is 4.00 = "A") in MAT 300 Mathematical Structures, or equivalent.

A student pursuing an undergraduate certificate must be enrolled as a degree-seeking student at ASU. Undergraduate certificates are not awarded before the completion of an undergraduate degree. A student who already holds an undergraduate degree may pursue an undergraduate certificate as a nondegree-seeking graduate student.
Tuition information▲
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Transfer options▲

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Program learning outcomes▲

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:

  • Apply appropriate concepts from their elective courses in the certificate to cryptology.
  • Analyze security of contemporary cryptosystems using results from theoretical mathematics.
Career opportunities▲

A certificate in cryptology offers graduates a wide variety of career possibilities. Some pursuing this certificate are interested in working in government, business, financial and medical settings and in educational industries. These areas require individuals with the skill sets to secure data, and graduates of this program have developed these skills.
Contact information▲
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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