CSA 221 - Cryptocurrency

(3 credits)

“Virtual currencies, perhaps most notably Bitcoin, have captured the imagination of some, struck fear among others, and confused the heck out of the rest of us.” - Thomas Carper, U.S. Senator. Today cryptocurrencies, or “cryptos”, have become a global phenomenon. While still somehow geeky and misunderstood by most people, banks, governments and a number of businesses are aware of its importance. But beyond the noise and press releases, the overwhelming majority of people, even bankers, consultants, scientists, and developers, have a very limited knowledge about cryptocurrencies and often fail to understand even the basic concepts. This introductory course explains the most important facets of cryptocurrencies and walks the student through the beginnings of the very first cryptocurrency - Bitcoin. Other topics include the uses, challenges, and investment opportunities of cryptos, as well as the future cryptocurrency. As a final project, students will create a crypto wallet and purchase cryptocurrency.After taking this course, you will know more about cryptocurrencies than most other humans. Prerequisite(s): CSA 220. Spring (alternate years).