University offers spam and spyware writing course – silicon.com — Without comment.

The virus writing class of 2003 now get to create their payload…
The controversial computer science department at the University of Calgary has once again kicked off heated debate in the security industry by offering students a course in writing spyware and the tools for sending and propagating spam.

The move follows the introduction of a widely-criticised virus writing course offered by the university in 2003.

However, the reaction to the latest addition to the syllabus has been more measured, with many in the security sector saying the right skills, taught in a controlled environment will prove a useful addition to their industry.