CSC126 - Introduction to Bitcoin & Cryptocurrency
Course Description
Take a journey of discovery into the world of Bitcoin and blockchain. Since Bitcoin’s launch in 2009, cryptocurrency and decentralized ledger technology, aka blockchain, have emerged as an economic force majeure, disrupting the fundamentals of how people interact and how they perceive money. In addition to pushing the evolution of money, Bitcoin is reinventing corporate and government treasury reserves and individual savings portfolios. Course participants will explore the organizational and individual impacts of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency.
This course is designed for students interested in understanding Bitcoin and cryptocurrency. We explore why this technology is important, how it works, and use cases for businesses and individuals. This class does not require any background in technology or computer programming. The class is for anyone with an interest in Bitcoin including individuals, financial advisors, corporate finance professionals, and more.
Course Outline
In this course, you will explore the following topics:
Class 1
- The Evolution of Money
- What is Bitcoin
- What is Cryptocurrency
Class 2
- Basic Cryptography
Class 3
- Foundations of Blockchain
Class 4
- Basics of Bitcoin & Cryptocurrency
- Using Bitcoin for Individuals
Class 5
- Stablecoins
- Bitcoin ETFs
- Bitcoin as a Corporate Treasury Asset
- Bitcoin as a Government Strategic Reserve
Learner Outcomes
Students will walk away with a fundamental understanding of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency, the framework of blockchain technology, and the impact on finance and society.Recommendations
- Register early to secure your spot using the SMU CAPE Student Portal. Please be aware that insufficient enrollment may cause course cancellation.
- If you need registration assistance or would like to enroll after online registration has closed, please call 214-768-2273 or contact smuthink@smu.edu.