Build Authentication Systems That Actually Work
Learn how authentication really functions in modern applications. We focus on practical implementation instead of theoretical lectures. By November 2025, you'll understand session management, token handling, and password security from hands-on experience.
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What You'll Actually Learn
Six months of focused work on authentication systems. We cover everything from basic login flows to OAuth implementations. Classes start in September 2025 and run through February 2026.
Session Management
You'll build session handlers from scratch. Understand cookies, server-side storage, and session hijacking prevention. Most students find this module challenging but rewarding.
6 weeksToken Authentication
JWT isn't magic once you understand how it works. Create token generators, handle refresh flows, and secure API endpoints. This module builds on session knowledge.
5 weeksPassword Security
Hashing, salting, and key derivation functions explained through implementation. You'll also learn about breach detection and password policy enforcement that makes sense.
4 weeksOAuth and SSO
Third-party authentication adds complexity. Learn how OAuth flows work and implement single sign-on systems. Real services like Google and GitHub become integration projects.
6 weeksMulti-Factor Systems
TOTP, SMS verification, and backup codes. Build 2FA systems that balance security with user experience. Understanding threat models helps design better solutions.
4 weeksReal-World Integration
Final project combines everything. Build a complete authentication system for a web application. Teams work together to handle edge cases and security reviews.
3 weeksWho Teaches This Program
Aldric Westergaard
Lead Authentication Instructor
Aldric spent eight years building security systems for fintech companies before teaching. He breaks down complex authentication flows into manageable pieces. Students appreciate his focus on why certain approaches work better than others in production environments.
Theron Lindqvist
Security Implementation Specialist
Theron handles the practical lab sessions where theory meets reality. He's dealt with enough security incidents to know what actually breaks systems. His code reviews help students catch vulnerabilities before they become problems.
Real Projects, Not Toy Examples
We don't pretend that tutorial projects prepare you for actual work. Every module includes implementations that face real constraints — performance limits, database choices, deployment concerns.
Your projects will handle concurrent users, recover from failures, and log security events properly. These aren't abstract exercises.
- Deploy authentication services to cloud platforms with monitoring
- Handle database migrations without breaking active sessions
- Debug production issues in authentication flows under pressure
- Review security vulnerabilities in existing codebases
- Write documentation that other developers can actually use
Most graduates say the project work taught them more than they expected. There's no substitute for fixing your own mistakes in a controlled environment.
Program Schedule and Format
We open enrollment in June 2025. Reach out if you have questions about prerequisites or program fit.
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