Blockchain technology has emerged as one of the most transformative innovations of the 21st century, reshaping industries from finance to healthcare, supply chain, and beyond. At The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the course CSCI2730 – Introduction to Blockchain Technologies and Applications offers students a comprehensive foundation in this rapidly evolving field. Designed for undergraduate students in computer science and related disciplines, this 3-credit course blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare learners for the digital economy’s decentralized future.
Understanding the Core of Blockchain
Blockchain is more than just the backbone of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin—it's a distributed ledger technology that enables secure, transparent, and tamper-resistant data transactions. In CSCI2730, students begin their journey by exploring blockchain fundamentals, including consensus mechanisms (like Proof of Work and Proof of Stake), cryptographic hashing, and peer-to-peer network architecture.
The course emphasizes not only how blockchains work but also why they matter. By the end of the semester, students will be able to:
- Explain the core concepts and techniques behind various types of blockchains (public, private, consortium).
- Understand how decentralized applications (DApps) operate on peer-to-peer networks.
- Identify real-world blockchain applications across multiple platforms.
👉 Discover how blockchain is revolutionizing digital trust and security today.
Weekly Curriculum Breakdown
The 13-week syllabus is structured to build knowledge progressively, moving from foundational principles to advanced integrations with emerging technologies.
Weeks 1–3: Foundations and Sustainability
Students start with Blockchain Fundamentals, followed by an exploration of Blockchain Mining—the process that validates transactions and secures the network. The third week introduces Sustainable Blockchain, addressing environmental concerns related to energy-intensive mining processes and examining eco-friendly alternatives such as Proof of Stake and layer-2 scaling solutions.
Weeks 4–6: Platforms and Decentralization
This segment dives into enterprise-grade frameworks like Hyperledger and leading public blockchains such as Ethereum. Students learn how smart contracts power decentralized applications (DApps), enabling automated, trustless interactions without intermediaries.
Weeks 7–9: Interdisciplinary Integration
As blockchain converges with other cutting-edge fields, the course covers:
- AI in Blockchain: How artificial intelligence enhances data analysis on decentralized networks.
- IoT and Blockchain: Securing Internet of Things devices through immutable ledgers.
- Security Issues in Blockchain: Common vulnerabilities (e.g., 51% attacks, smart contract bugs) and mitigation strategies.
Weeks 10–13: Scalability and Real-World Applications
The final stretch focuses on Scalable Blockchain architectures and Blockchain as a Service (BaaS) models used by cloud providers. The last three weeks are dedicated to hands-on exploration of real-world blockchain applications, including non-fungible tokens (NFTs), supply chain tracking, digital identity, and decentralized finance (DeFi).
👉 See how developers are building the next generation of decentralized apps.
Learning Outcomes and Skill Development
By completing CSCI2730, students gain both conceptual understanding and technical proficiency in key areas:
- Mastery of blockchain architecture and consensus algorithms.
- Ability to analyze the impact of blockchain on industries such as logistics, healthcare, and financial services.
- Practical experience with popular blockchain platforms like Ethereum and Hyperledger Fabric.
- Insight into the ethical, environmental, and regulatory dimensions of decentralized systems.
These outcomes align with growing market demand for professionals skilled in distributed ledger technology, smart contract development, and decentralized system design.
Assessment Structure
Student performance is evaluated through a balanced mix of assessments designed to reinforce learning and encourage applied thinking:
- Examination (55%): A final exam assessing theoretical knowledge and problem-solving abilities.
- Homework or Assignments (25%): Regular tasks reinforcing weekly topics, including coding exercises and case studies.
- Project (20%): A capstone project where students design and prototype a blockchain-based solution, such as a DApp or secure IoT data logger.
Feedback is provided through quizzes, class discussions, office hour consultations, and course evaluations—ensuring continuous improvement and engagement.
Recommended Resources
To support deep learning, the course recommends several authoritative texts:
- Mastering Blockchain by Imran Bashir – A technical deep dive into protocols, smart contracts, and DApps.
- Mastering Bitcoin by Andreas Antonopoulos – The definitive guide to Bitcoin’s underlying technology.
- The Little Bitcoin Book by Timi Ajiboye et al. – An accessible introduction to Bitcoin’s societal and financial implications.
These readings complement lectures and help students stay current with rapid advancements in the field.
Prerequisites and Enrollment
This course is open to undergraduate students who have completed foundational programming or information engineering courses. Eligible prerequisites include AIST1110, CSCI1120–1550, ENGG1110, or ESTR1002/1100/1102. Students who have previously taken IERG4360 or ESTR4326 are not eligible for enrollment.
Class size is capped at 80 students per lecture and tutorial session, ensuring personalized attention and interactive learning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is prior knowledge of cryptocurrency required?
A: No. While familiarity with basic computing concepts is expected, the course starts from first principles and does not assume prior exposure to blockchain or crypto assets.
Q: Can non-computer science majors take this course?
A: Yes, provided they meet the prerequisite requirements. The course welcomes students from engineering and information technology backgrounds.
Q: What kind of project will we build?
A: Past projects have included NFT marketplaces, supply chain trackers using IoT sensors, and simple DeFi protocols on testnet blockchains.
Q: Does the course cover coding?
A: Yes. Students will write basic smart contracts using Solidity (for Ethereum) and may engage with Hyperledger Composer or Fabric for enterprise use cases.
Q: How relevant is this course for future careers?
A: Extremely. Blockchain skills are in high demand across fintech, cybersecurity, consulting, and tech innovation roles globally.
👉 Explore career opportunities in blockchain development and decentralized systems.
Why This Course Matters in 2025
As organizations increasingly adopt blockchain as a service (BaaS) and governments explore central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), understanding decentralized systems is no longer optional—it's essential. CSCI2730 equips students with forward-looking skills at the intersection of computer science, economics, and innovation.
Whether you're interested in launching a tech startup, securing critical infrastructure, or shaping policy around digital assets, this course provides the tools to lead in a decentralized world.
With its rigorous curriculum, industry-aligned content, and focus on real-world application, Introduction to Blockchain Technologies and Applications stands as a vital stepping stone for the next generation of technologists, entrepreneurs, and change-makers.