Cryptology: Cracking Codes

Unlock the world of secret communication in this engaging, fast-paced introduction to cryptology. Over six weeks, during live weekly sessions with your classmates and instructor, we'll explore how mathematics serves as the foundation for encryption and decryption techniques. Designed to be approachable yet challenging, this course offers an accessible glimpse into the history and principles behind secret codes and ciphers, with a focus on real-world applications. We will uncover the logic, patterns, and problem-solving strategies that drive cryptographic systems, and deepen our understanding of how cryptology has developed throughout history to shape our modern encryption systems and secure our digital world. Time commitment: 2.5-3.5 hours per week (1.5 hours of class time, 1-2 hours of independent work). Course will include 6 sessions over 6 weeks. Course Overview Learning Objectives: Encrypt and decrypt messages with a variety of codes Invent your own ciphers Discuss relevant historical events and literature Apply number theory concepts to cryptology About Advanced Enrichment Courses These courses offer above-grade-level material presented in a novel context, explored with other advanced learners, and guided by a CTY educator and help prepare students for higher-order thinking and college-style academic challenges. The content in Cryptology: Cracking Codes overlaps with the CTY course Cryptology: Math and Codes. Students who have already taken Cryptology: Math and Codes may wish to consult with an enrollment advisor before selecting this course.