Quantum Science Master's Program

Coursework

Students can complete the Quantum Science track with emphasis on either quantum computing or quantum materials. Examples of suggested coursework follow.

Quantum Computing Focus:

Semester I:

1. Quantum Mechanics I (Physics 501)
2. Solid State Physics I (Physics 601)
3. Quantum Computing Theory

Semester II:

1. Quantum Mechanics II (Physics 502)
2. Quantum Computing Experiment
3. [Begin research and prepare for internship.] 

Semester III:

1. Quantum Algorithms (Computer Science 583)
2. Machine Learning I (Physics 568)
3. 701 Research - 3 credits

Semester IV:

1. Machine Learning II (Physics 569)
2. 702 Research - 3 credits

Quantum Materials Focus:

Semester I:

1. Quantum Mechanics I (Physics 501)
2. Solid State Physics I (Physics 601)
3. Computational Physics (Physics 509)

Semester II:

1. Quantum Mechanics II (Physics 502)
2. Solid State Physics II (Physics 602)
3. [Begin research and prepare for internship.] 

Semester III:

1. Solid State Physics III (Physics 603)
2. Many Body Physics I (Physics 620)
3. 701 Research - 3 credits

Semester IV:

1. Quantum Computing Experiment
2. 702 Research - 3 credits 

Students enrolling in the program without the necessary background needed for the advanced Master’s coursework are required to take additional coursework before the start of the program:

Spring Prep Semester:

1. Intermediate Quantum Mechanics (Physics 417)
2. Introductory Solid State Physics (Physics 406)

Research

Research experience is a crucial component of the training of each student and occupies the majority of the second year of the program. During this time, students are assigned a faculty mentor who supervises a research project on a topic in quantum science. At the end of the project, students are expected to submit a Master’s Thesis. Research work culminating in a publication is not required for graduation but is highly recommended. Master’s research focuses on an original question that is of relevance to the field of quantum information and quantum matter.

Summer Research Opportunity

Students enrolled in the program are strongly encouraged to conduct paid research internships during the summer between the two years, in either research groups at the Center for Materials Theory or with an industry partner. The Center for Materials Theory partners with leaders in the quantum industry sector to make available an array of experiential learning opportunities. The partner organization or the corresponding research lab supports students’ research activities over the summer. The summer internship program allows the students to be exposed to cutting-edge research problems and prepare them for the research activities during the final year of the Master’s program.