MIT Sloan School of Management
Blockchain Technologies: Business Innovation and Application
Harness the economic potential of blockchain technology
Start date
21 April 2021
Enroll by 13 April 2021
Course duration
6 weeks
Excluding orientation
Language
English
Access resources from start date
Effort
5–8 hours per week
Self-paced learning online
Course overview
Duration: 6 weeks (excluding orientation)
Blockchain technology has the potential to fundamentally change the way business is conducted, and to transform the foundations of our economic and social systems. This online program draws on the work of leading MIT faculty and cryptoeconomics expert Christian Catalini, and examines blockchain technology from an economic perspective. With a focus on its organizational opportunities and limitations, the program will equip you with the tools to leverage blockchain technology to drive innovation and efficiency in your business. On completion, you’ll be able to implement a blockchain-based solution to address a business problem within your own context.
Is this course for you?
This online short course is not technical, but rather focuses on the applications of blockchain technology for business. It’s geared towards leaders and managers seeking a deeper understanding of the impact of blockchain technologies in an economic environment, and to identify areas for implementation in their organization.
Course overview
Introduction
Duration: 6 weeks (excluding orientation)
Blockchain technology has the potential to fundamentally change the way business is conducted, and to transform the foundations of our economic and social systems. This online program draws on the work of leading MIT faculty and cryptoeconomics expert Christian Catalini, and examines blockchain technology from an economic perspective. With a focus on its organizational opportunities and limitations, the program will equip you with the tools to leverage blockchain technology to drive innovation and efficiency in your business. On completion, you’ll be able to implement a blockchain-based solution to address a business problem within your own context.
Is this course for you?
This online short course is not technical, but rather focuses on the applications of blockchain technology for business. It’s geared towards leaders and managers seeking a deeper understanding of the impact of blockchain technologies in an economic environment, and to identify areas for implementation in their organization.
What will set you apart
A deeper understanding of the capabilities of blockchain technology, enabling you to assess which business problems it can solve.
A blockchain-based strategy that addresses a business challenge within your industry.
A thorough understanding of how blockchain technology lowers the cost of verification and the cost of networking.
Knowledge of how blockchain powers applications like bitcoin and other token-based initiatives.Course curriculum
Orientation module
Welcome to your Online Campus
Module 1
An introduction to blockchain technology
Module 2
Bitcoin and the curse of the double-spending problem
Module 3
Costless verification: Blockchain technology and the last mile problem
Module 4
Bootstrapping network effects through blockchain technology and cryptoeconomics
Module 5
Using tokens to design new types of digital platforms
Module 6
The future of blockchain technology, AI, and digital privacy
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Faculty Director
Christian Catalini
Theodore T. Miller Career Development Professor at MIT; Associate Professor of Technological Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Strategic Management; Founder, MIT Cryptoeconomics Lab
Earn a certificate of completion from MIT Sloan
Earn an official certificate of completion from the MIT Sloan School of Management.
This program also counts towards an MIT Sloan Executive Certificate, which you can earn by completing four programs; three from your chosen certificate track and one completed in person. Find out more.
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Want to know more?
Why choose GetSmarter?
GetSmarter, a 2U, Inc. brand, is an online learning expert with over 10 years' experience in developing high-quality online short courses from the world’s leading universities. We deliver market-led courses that equip working professionals with the expertise required for the workplace of the future. Through a data-driven approach, we analyze future skills requirements and ensure all courses address this need.
Students are supported at every stage of the learning journey, enabling them to thrive professionally through increased relevance, competence, and confidence. Find out more about GetSmarter’s approach to digital learning, course design, and online delivery here.
Payment options
You can pay your course fees before the course starts, or you may opt for a split payment plan on courses that are nine weeks and shorter. For courses 10 weeks and longer, there is a three-part payment plan available. To find out more about payment options please visit our Payment and Financing FAQ, or contact an Enrollment Adviser, to find out which option you qualify for.
Manage your time
GetSmarter's learning model is designed to help you, as a working professional, improve your skills without compromising on work and family responsibilities. The course work is broken up into weekly, manageable bite-sized modules, with incremental deadlines, designed to help you pace yourself over the duration of the course and allow you the legroom to work when it suits you best.
At the beginning of each module you'll be presented with the course content and assignments necessary for completion. You also have access to your Success Adviser who will help you manage your time, and support you with any administrative or technical queries you might have.
Seek employer assistance
By improving your skills and industry knowledge, you'll have an influence on the success of your organization. Why wouldn't you ask your boss to help you fund your studies if it's going to have an impact on the way you do business?
Of our past students, 37 percent have received financial assistance from their employers. You can ask for help, too. Here is a guide to show you how to request financial assistance from your employer.
If you are a Learning & Development (L&D) manager, or involved in training and upskilling for an organization, you can request information regarding our corporate offering on our GetSmarter for business page.
How to change your start date
As part of our commitment to your professional development, GetSmarter offers you a two-week period to change your course start date or request your money back if you’re not fully satisfied.
To qualify for a deferral of your course start date, or to cancel your enrollment and receive a refund of your course fee, your request would need to reach our Success Advisers before the release of Module 2. For more information, please read our Terms and Conditions.
Discover the Online Campus
The Online Campus will be your virtual classroom for the duration of your course. Through its easy-to-use interface you'll have access to a diverse variety of course content formats including: interactive videos, module notes, practice quizzes, presentations, assignment briefs, and additional web resources.
On the Online Campus, you'll also be able to ask questions and interact with your fellow students and teaching team through the discussion forums. If you are looking for your Online Campus login, please see the list of university partner login pages here.
