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Blekinge Institute of Technology
Department of Computer Science

Revision: 2
Reg.no: BTH-4.1.14-0191-2026


Course syllabus

Trusted Systems

Trusted Systems

6 credits (6 högskolepoäng)

Course code: DV2644
Main field of study: Computer Science
Disciplinary domain: Technology
Education level: Second-cycle
Specialization: A1N - Second cycle, has only first-cycle course/s as entry requirements

Language of instruction: English
Applies from: 2026-03-17
Approved: 2026-03-17

1. Descision

This course is established by Dean 2023-05-03. The course syllabus is approved by Head of Department of Computer Science 2026-03-17 and applies from 2026-03-17.

2. Entry requirements

Admission to the course requires taken course in operating systems. Further requirements are (I) 6 credits in security technology or (II) 3 credits in the basics of cryptology and a taken course in basic cybersecurity. English 6.

3. Objective and content

3.1 Objective

In the course, the student has the opportunity to acquire knowledge of the principles, techniques, and technologies of trusted systems (the computer and its services), as well as to understand the process of designing and building secure systems and networks. The course also introduces the Blockchain concept, trusted computing in decentralized systems, and its industrial applications.

3.2 Content

  • Introduction to Trust
  • Fundamentals of Trust, Functions, and Alternative Approaches
  • Definitions of Trust in Computer Systems
  • System Models for Trusted Computer Systems
  • Hardware, Trust, and Confidential Computing
  • Blockchains and Trusted Systems
  • Advanced and Applied Topics in Trusted Systems

4. Learning outcomes

The following learning outcomes are examined in the course:

4.1. Knowledge and understanding

On completion of the course, the student will be able to:

  • Describe and explain basic concepts related to trusted computer systems
  • Describe and understand techniques for hardware and software-based trust
  • Understand attack models and security and performance issues in trusted computer systems
  • Understand the design of trusted systems and their relationship to applications

4.2. Competence and skills

On completion of the course, the student will be able to:

  • Select, configure, deploy and test a small-scale trusted system
  • Select appropriate hardware and software concepts for trusted systems
  • Design small-scale software to achieve trusted system characteristics
  • Write and orally present project results in the form of a short report

4.3. Judgement and approach

On completion of the course, the student will be able to:

  • Assess the advantages, disadvantages, and requirements of the most important models and concepts for trusted systems
  • Assess the security and performance of trusted computer systems

5. Learning activities

The course consists of lectures, laboratory exercises, and a project that ends with seminars. During the lectures, theory is discussed and then applied in laboratory exercises and projects. Laboratory exercises and projects are carried out in small groups.

6. Assessment and grading

Modes of examinations of the course

Code Module Credit Grade
2610 On-campus Examination 2 credits AF
2620 Laboratory Session 2 credits GU
2630 Project 2 credits GU

The course will be graded A Excellent, B Very good, C Good, D Satisfactory, E Sufficient, FX Failed result, a little more work required, F Fail.

The examiner may carry out oral follow-up of written examinations.

The information before the start of the course states the assessment criteria and make explicit in which modes of examination that the learning outcomes are assessed.

An examiner can, after consulting the Disability Advisor at BTH, decide on a customized examination form for a student with a long-term disability to be provided with an examination equivalent to one given to a student who is not disabled.

7. Course evaluation

The course evaluation should be carried out in line with BTH:s course evaluation template and process.

8. Restrictions regarding degree

The course can form part of a degree but not together with another course the content of which completely or partly corresponds with the contents of this course.

9. Course literature and other materials of instruction

Mike Bursell: “Trust in Computer Systems and the Cloud”, ISBN: 978-1-119-69232-4, Wiley, Dec. 2021.