2015-02

Arizona State University
University Senate
Fall 2014

Senate Motion #2015-02

Motion Introduced by: Curriculum and Academic Programs Committee, Kathleen Puckett, Chair

Date of First Reading: September 8, 2014

Date of Second Reading: October 6, 2014

Title of Motion: Request from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences – School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences – for the establishment of an undergraduate certificate – Cryptology

Action Requested: The Curriculum and Academic Programs Committee recommends University Senate approval of a proposal submitted by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences – School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences – for the establishment of an undergraduate certificate – Cryptology

Rationale: The Certificate in Cryptology is intended to develop students’ expertise in the mathematics underlying modern cryptosystems. It is comprised of a combination of foundational courses on the mathematics needed to understand these cryptosystems, and specialized courses on the theory that explains the security they provide, the algorithms used to create and cryptanalyze them, and their potential vulnerabilities.

Modern cryptosystems are based on ideas from number theory, abstract algebra, and discrete mathematics. Individuals with expertise in these mathematical underpinnings are in high demand in private industries where information security is important, and in national security related careers.