Diploma Bitcoin
Diploma Bitcoin is the Portuguese adaptation of the internationally recognised course created by My First Bitcoin, already translated into more than 8 languages.
This 10-chapter programme is designed to empower individuals, businesses and communities, promoting financial literacy and a solid understanding of Bitcoin.
It is a great opportunity to understand the fundamentals of Bitcoin and its impact on society, in a structured and accessible way.
Taking part costs a symbolic €21, which makes sure participants are committed. It is later returned as a discount in our online shop.
Classes are weekly and online only. Each chapter has:
- A recorded theory class (up to 45 minutes), which students watch before the practical class. The recording is released a week before the practical class and stays available at any time.
- A live practical class (online) for exercises, questions and discussion of the chapter's topics. It takes place every Saturday morning for the length of the course.
Calendar at a glance
- Length: 10 weeks
- Classes: 20 (10 recorded, 10 live)
- When: Every Saturday at 10 a.m.
Topics covered in the course
- What money is, its history and how it works
- What fiat currencies are
- Problems with today's financial system
- What Bitcoin is and how to use it
- The Lightning Network and everyday payments
- Bitcoin's technical side
What you need
- A device with internet access and a working microphone and camera, to watch and take part in the classes.
- A smartphone with internet access, for the hands-on parts.
Student handbook
You can download the digital handbook for free. If you like, you can also buy the printed edition.
Sign up now!Frequently Asked Questions
What is Diploma Bitcoin?
Diploma Bitcoin is an adaptation of the internationally recognised 10-week programme developed by My First Bitcoin. This course will give you a solid understanding of Bitcoin.
Who is this course for?
Anyone who wants to learn about Bitcoin, or to deepen what they already know. It is a great opportunity to understand the fundamentals of Bitcoin and its impact on society, in a structured and accessible way.
What language is the course in?
The course is taught entirely in Portuguese.
How long is the course?
The course has ten chapters, spread over ten weeks.
What format do the classes take?
Each week has a recorded theory class, which students watch before the practical class, and a live practical class (online) for exercises, questions and discussion of the chapter's topics. The practical class is on Saturday mornings.
What is the class calendar?
| Chapter | Theory class | Practical class |
|---|---|---|
| #1: Why do we need money? | 18 Apr | |
| #2: What is money? | 18 Apr – 24 Apr | 25 Apr |
| #3: The history of money | 25 Apr – 1 May | 2 May |
| #4: What are fiat currencies and who controls them? | 2 May – 8 May | 9 May |
| #5: Building solutions from problems | 9 May – 15 May | 16 May |
| #6: Introduction to Bitcoin | 16 May – 22 May | 23 May |
| #7: How to use Bitcoin | 23 May – 29 May | 30 May |
| #8: The Lightning Network: using bitcoin every day | 30 May – 5 Jun | 6 Jun |
| #9: An introduction to Bitcoin's technical side | 6 Jun – 12 Jun | 13 Jun |
| #10: Why Bitcoin? | 13 Jun – 19 Jun | 20 Jun |
When are the practical classes?
The practical classes are on Saturdays at 10 a.m. (mainland Portugal and Madeira time).
How do I join the practical classes?
The link to the practical classes is sent before the course starts, to the email address you signed up with.
How long are the recorded classes available?
The recorded classes stay available after the course ends.
What is My First Bitcoin?
My First Bitcoin is a global, decentralised movement focused on independent, impartial, community-led Bitcoin education. Diploma Bitcoin started in El Salvador, has been translated into eight languages and taught in many countries around the world.
Do I have to attend the practical classes?
Yes, attending the practical classes is required to receive the diploma.
I can't attend one of the practical classes. What should I do?
If you can't attend a practical class, please let us know by email at education@freemadeira.org. We will take it into account in the assessment.
How is the course assessed?
The assessment is based on attendance and active participation in the practical classes.
Will I get a diploma or certificate of participation at the end?
Yes, as long as you meet the assessment goals.
Why do I need to have my camera on during the practical classes?
We want taking part in this course to be engaging and about sharing knowledge, with room for everyone to take part and ask questions. That only works when everyone involved connects, and eye contact is essential for that.
Are the practical classes recorded?
No. The practical classes are live only. They are not recorded, for the comfort and privacy of the participants. The theory classes are always available on our website.
Why isn't this course free?
The symbolic sign-up fee makes sure participants are committed. It is later returned as a discount in our online shop.
Are places limited?
Yes, there is a maximum number of participants, so we can keep the practical classes good. We recommend signing up as soon as you can.
What is the sign-up deadline?
Sign-ups are open until 16 April, or until the maximum number of participants is reached.
Why can't I join halfway through the course?
The course has 10 chapters in a fixed order. Missing the first classes means missing information you need to follow the course. You can still watch the recorded classes, though.
I can't take this course. Will there be another one?
Yes, we plan to teach this course regularly. Subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on social media to hear about the courses and workshops we teach.
Is there any course material?
Yes, the Diploma Bitcoin handbook is the main course material, and you can download it for free. If you prefer a printed copy, you can buy one in our online shop. The slides from the theory and practical classes are shared too. The download and shop links are above, under "Student handbook".