Blockchain technology has rapidly evolved from a niche innovation powering cryptocurrencies to a transformative force across industries. At The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the course CSCI2730 – Introduction to Blockchain Technologies and Applications offers students a comprehensive foundation in blockchain principles, practical applications, and emerging trends. This course is designed for undergraduate students in computer science and related fields who seek to understand how decentralized systems are reshaping finance, supply chains, healthcare, and more.
With a strong emphasis on real-world relevance, the curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience on popular blockchain platforms such as Ethereum and Hyperledger. Whether you're exploring smart contracts, decentralized applications (DApps), or the integration of blockchain with AI and IoT, this course equips learners with the skills needed to thrive in a digital-first economy.
Core Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain the core concepts and technical mechanisms behind various types of blockchains.
- Understand how decentralized applications operate on peer-to-peer networks.
- Analyze real-world blockchain implementations on leading platforms like Ethereum and Hyperledger.
- Evaluate security challenges, scalability limitations, and sustainability concerns in current blockchain systems.
These outcomes ensure that graduates not only grasp theoretical models but can also apply their knowledge to solve practical problems in emerging tech environments.
Weekly Curriculum Breakdown
The 13-week syllabus is structured to progressively build expertise from foundational concepts to advanced applications.
Week 1–3: Foundations and Mining
Students begin with Blockchain Fundamentals, covering distributed ledgers, consensus algorithms (e.g., Proof of Work, Proof of Stake), and cryptographic hashing. This leads into Blockchain Mining, where learners explore how miners validate transactions and maintain network integrity. The third week introduces Sustainable Blockchain, focusing on energy-efficient alternatives and environmental impact reduction strategies—an increasingly vital topic in today’s climate-conscious world.
Week 4–6: Platforms and Decentralization
Week 4 dives into Hyperledger, an open-source framework ideal for enterprise solutions requiring privacy and permissioned access. Week 5 shifts focus to Ethereum, examining its architecture, gas model, and role in enabling programmable money through smart contracts. In Week 6, students study Decentralized Applications (DApps)—how they’re built, deployed, and interact with backend blockchain networks.
👉 Discover how decentralized apps are revolutionizing digital services today.
Week 7–9: Integration with Emerging Tech
Week 7 explores the convergence of AI and Blockchain, discussing how machine learning models can be secured and audited using immutable ledgers. The course then examines IoT and Blockchain integration, showing how device data can be securely logged and verified across distributed nodes. Week 9 tackles Security Issues in Blockchain, including vulnerabilities like 51% attacks, smart contract bugs, and mitigation techniques.
Week 10–13: Scalability and Real-World Use Cases
The final stretch covers Scalable Blockchain solutions such as sharding and layer-2 protocols (e.g., rollups), followed by Blockchain as a Service (BaaS)—cloud-based offerings from major providers that simplify enterprise adoption. The last three weeks are dedicated to real-world applications, including NFTs, supply chain tracking, digital identity, and decentralized finance (DeFi).
Assessment Structure
Student performance is evaluated through a balanced mix of assessments:
- Examination (55%): A comprehensive final exam testing conceptual understanding and analytical skills.
- Homework/Assignments (25%): Regular problem sets reinforcing weekly topics, including coding exercises and case studies.
- Project (20%): A hands-on group project where students design and prototype a blockchain solution—such as a DApp or secure IoT system—using tools taught in class.
Feedback is provided via quizzes, class discussions, office hour consultations, and end-of-course evaluations to ensure continuous improvement.
Recommended Reading Materials
To support deep learning, the course recommends several authoritative texts:
- Mastering Blockchain by Imran Bashir – A detailed exploration of consensus protocols, smart contracts, and DApps.
- Mastering Bitcoin by Andreas Antonopoulos – An essential guide to Bitcoin’s underlying technology.
- The Little Bitcoin Book by Timi Ajiboye et al. – A concise yet powerful introduction to Bitcoin’s societal and financial implications.
These resources help students go beyond lectures and engage with global perspectives on blockchain innovation.
Prerequisites and Enrollment Details
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 taken IERG4360 or ESTR4326 are not eligible for enrollment.
The class includes 3 hours of weekly lectures and 1 tutorial session, accommodating up to 80 students per section. It carries 3 academic credits and follows a graded assessment model with no option for repeated credit.
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 enroll?
A: Yes, provided they meet the prerequisite requirements. Students from engineering or data science backgrounds often find the content highly applicable.
Q: What kind of project will we build?
A: Past projects have included NFT marketplaces, supply chain trackers using IoT sensors, and voting systems secured by smart contracts on Ethereum testnets.
Q: How technical is the course?
A: It balances theory and practice. You’ll write code (primarily Solidity or JavaScript), but foundational support is provided throughout.
Q: Is there career value in taking this course?
A: Absolutely. Blockchain skills are in high demand across fintech, cybersecurity, logistics, and Web3 startups. Employers value graduates who understand both the technical and business implications of decentralization.
👉 Explore career opportunities in blockchain development and innovation.
Why This Course Matters in 2025
As industries accelerate digital transformation, blockchain stands at the forefront of trustless automation and secure data sharing. From tokenizing assets to enabling transparent governance models, its applications continue to expand.
This course doesn’t just teach technology—it fosters critical thinking about ethics, sustainability, and long-term viability in decentralized systems. With Hong Kong positioning itself as a hub for fintech innovation, mastering blockchain now offers a strategic advantage for future leaders.
👉 See how blockchain is shaping the future of finance and technology ecosystems.
Core Keywords: blockchain technology, decentralized applications (DApps), Ethereum, Hyperledger, smart contracts, IoT blockchain integration, blockchain security, scalable blockchain