Unit name | Advanced Cryptology (Teaching Unit) |
---|---|
Unit code | COMSM0042 |
Credit points | 0 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Dr. Martindale |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
COMS10017 Object Oriented Programming and Algorithms I or equivalent. COMS10014 Mathematics for Computer Science A and COMS10013 Mathematics for Computer Science B. COMS20010 Algorithms II or equivalent. COMS30023 Cryptology (Teaching Unit) or equivalent. or Working understanding of algorithms and complexity analysis
Exposure to abstract algebra or number theory
A good understanding of (discrete) probability theory
Exposure to basic cryptographic reductions and game-based security definitions |
Co-requisites |
EITHER COMSM0040 Advanced Cryptology (Exam assessment, 10 credits) OR COMSM0041 Advanced Cryptology (Coursework assessment, 20 credits). Please note: COMSM0042 is the Teaching Unit for the Advanced Cryptology option. Single Honours Computer Science students can choose to be assessed by either examination (10 credits, COMSM0040) or coursework (20 credits, COMSM0041 by selecting the appropriate co-requisite assessment unit. Any other students that are permitted to take the Advanced Cryptology option are assessed by examination (10 credits) and should be enrolled on the co-requisite exam assessment unit (COMSM0040). |
School/department | School of Computer Science |
Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
This unit builds on the foundations of confidentiality and authenticity set down in COMS30023 Cryptology, and deals with more advanced topics, specific to modern cryptographic research. Topics will range from foundational questions to more practical ones.
A common view of cryptography is that it only focuses on schemes for encryption; this unit aims to introduce an extended remit of advanced techniques and primitives that allow cryptographic solutions to numerous real-world problems.
The syllabus may include aspects of:
After successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Teaching will be delivered through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous sessions, including lectures, practical activities supported by drop-in sessions, problem sheets and self-directed exercises.
Teaching will take place over Weeks 1-7, with coursework support in weeks 8-10 and for students assessed by examination, consolidation and revision sessions in Weeks 11 and 12.
Examination details:
January timed assessment (100%, 10 credits).
OR
Coursework details:
Coursework (100%), to be completed in weeks 8-11.
Katz, J. and Lindell, Y, Introduction to Modern Cryptography (Chapman & Hall/CRC, 2011) ISBN: 1584885513