Learning Optics and Electrodynamics as part of the Bachelor of Information Technology Security curriculum

Abstract

The bachelor program in Information Technology Security of the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon used to teach the students the use of hardware and software needed for their professional development; moreover, the constant evolution of technology and the imminent arrival of new technologies such as Quantum computers, 5G, 6G, and more lead to needing to include a solid base on Physics at the first semesters of the curriculum. Considering this, the recent updates in the academic program of the Bachelor of Information Technology Security include a subject called Transmission Signals, where fundamental electrodynamics and optics are the main topics covered, including the explanation of its application in Computer, Telecommunications, Cryptography, and Security in IT. The main objective of the subject is to prepare the students to understand how the technology works and the science behind it, which will lead to the opportunity for the student to easily understand future technologies from a solid foundation of knowledge in Electrodynamics and Optics. The subject of Transmission Signals has been taught since 2019, and the present work shows a summary of its content, the projects developed by the students, the impact of this subject in the curriculum, and the future work proposed to improve the integral development of the IT Security students.