Quantum Computing Specialists

High School

Take as many STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) classes as possible to build your skills and prepare for intensive college study in these areas. Artificial intelligence is increasingly used in quantum computing, so it’s a good idea to take classes in this field if they are available. You should also join STEM clubs and participate in STEM competitions to build your skills and meet people with shared interests, Taking English, speech, and writing courses will help you to develop your communication skills.

Postsecondary Education

Many QC specialists have degrees in physics, computer science, electrical or other engineering fields, mathematics, data science, artificial intelligence, or chemistry. Those with a bachelor’s degree typically qualify for entry-level positions. A master’s degree or doctorate is required to work in research positions—especially at top employers.

A few colleges and universities (such as Miami University in Oxford, Ohio) offer bachelor’s degrees in quantum computing, quantum science and technology, and related fields. Approximately 40 U.S. postsecondary institutions offer master’s degrees in quantum computing. Examples include the University of Maryland (College Park, Maryland), Columbia University (New York City), and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Certification

Certificates in quantum computing, quantum physics, and related fields are offered by colleges and universities. They serve as an excellent introduction to the field and a way for those with degrees in traditional STEM disciplines to build their skills. For example, the University of Connecticut offers a certificate in quantum science and technology. Students must complete the following courses to earn the certificate: Introduction to Quantum Science and Technology; Mathematical Foundations of Quantum Science; Quantum Materials and Sensing; and Quantum Computing. Certificate programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Continuing education seminars, webinars, and other learning opportunities are provided by professional associations (such as the IEEE Computer Society and the Association for Computing Machinery), colleges and universities, and for-profit online learning platforms such as Coursera and edX (which sometimes collaborate with colleges and universities to offer programs). Contact these organizations for more information.