This practical, self-contained text builds the knowledge vital for conducting independent research in spintronics. It explains the use of spin for encoding information in both classical and quantum systems, and how spin-orbit interaction forms the basis for spintronic field effect transistors and spin-based devices. It also discusses the advantages of spin-based devices over conventional electronic devices. Coverage spans active hybrid, monolithic, and passive spintronic devices as well as some based on the giant magnetoresistance effect. The final chapters introduce spin-based reversible logic gates, spintronic models of quantum computers, and advanced applications.