Why a minor in Quantum Technology?
Quantum technology is an emerging field that has the potential to revolutionize many areas of science and technology, from computing to sensing to communication. A minor in this area will provide you with a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and skills in a cutting-edge and rapidly developing field, which is appealing if you’re looking to differentiate yourself in the job market.
Furthermore, quantum technology requires a multidisciplinary approach that involves concepts from physics, mathematics, computer science, and engineering. A minor in this area can help you develop a broader understanding of these subjects and how they can be applied to real-world problems. It can also encourage collaboration between you and faculty from different departments, leading to a more diverse and innovative learning environment.
What are the minor’s learning objectives?
- Developing a basic understanding of the principles of quantum mechanics and their application to various technologies.
- Learning about quantum algorithms and how they differ from classical algorithms, and gaining hands-on experience with programming quantum computers.
- Understanding the principles of quantum communication and cryptography, and how they can be used to ensure secure communication.
- Understanding the principles of quantum sensing and metrology, and their applications in various fields.
- Learning about the engineering and design principles of quantum devices, such as qubits, quantum sensors, and quantum communication systems.
- Developing an understanding of the limitations and challenges of working with quantum technologies, such as noise and decoherence.
- Gaining practical experience with experimental methods and techniques for working with quantum systems, such as quantum optics, quantum information, and quantum control.
I’m interested. What’s the first step?
The first required course for the minor is being rolled out this coming semester (Spring 2024):
PH-UY 2002 Introduction to Quantum Science
Time: Mondays, 2pm – 3:50pm
Instructor: Prof. Rupak Chatterjee
Description: This course offers an introduction to the essential concepts of quantum mechanics. Topics covered include basic principles like superposition, entanglement, and measurement, along with elementary mathematical models such as wave functions and probability amplitudes. While the course does involve mathematical descriptions, the emphasis is on developing an intuitive understanding of quantum principles.
What are the other required courses?
In addition to PH-UY 2002, you must also take the following courses in future semesters:
PH-UY 2012 Introduction to Quantum Programming (offered every fall semester, starting in Fall 2024)
PH-UY 3613 Math Foundations for Quantum Computing (offered every fall semester, starting in Fall 2024)
PH-UY 4553 Introduction to the Physics of Quantum Computing (offered every spring semester, starting in Spring 2025)
Are there any other requirements?
Yes! You must also take two courses from this list of electives (prerequisites in parentheses):
CM-UY 3714 Physical Chemistry I (CM-UY 1004, MA-UY 1124, PH-UY 1013)
CS-UY 3943 Special Topics: Algorithmic Machine Learning and Data Science (CS-UY 4653)
CS-UY 4783 Applied Cryptography (MA-UY 2314, CS-UY 1134, CS-UY 2124)
CS-UY 4563 Introduction to Machine Learning (MA-UY 2224, MA-UY 2034, CS-UY 1134)
ECE-UY 3054 Signals, Systems, and Transforms (MA-UY 2034)
PH-UY 3474 Modern Optics (PH-UY 2033)
PH-UY 3614 Computational Physics (PH-UY 2033, CS-UY 1114, MA-UY 1124)
PH-GY 5493 Physics of Nanoelectronics (PH-UY 2023)
PH-GY 5553 Physics of Quantum Computing (PH-UY 2023)
PH-GY 6673 Quantum Mechanics I (MA-UY 2114, PH-UY 3234)
Anything else?
A few more things…
You must get an overall 2.00 GPA in the above courses in order to be granted a Minor in Quantum Technology.
Also keep in mind that there are opportunities for students to intern in companies and laboratories in the area. You can apply for placement in one such position upon completion of the minor.
Finally, if you’re not interested in taking the full minor, you should still consider taking some of the new courses that were created for the minor. PH-UY 2002, 2012, 3613, and 4553 are all fantastic ways to deepen your understanding of quantum computing should you find the area interesting!
If you are interested in signing up for the Minor in Quantum Technology or just in taking a few courses on the subject matter, feel free to reach out to us in the Applied Physics department at john.dibartolo@nyu.edu.