About

These are exciting times for the development of quantum technology, with rapid advances both on the conceptual and the implementation front. A number of technology companies, such as IBM and Honeywell, have started to invest heavily in quantum technology, which has firmly established quantum computing as a new direction for the broader technology sector.

Demand for researchers and professionals with hands-on quantum technology experience is accelerating. Widely desired skills include the development of novel technologies –such as hardware for quantum computing, quantum detectors and receivers– to the evolution of new quantum computational methods, security of the internet and the communication infrastructure.

This post-baccalaureate certificate is designed for working professionals and will provide skills in areas of quantum technologies that can be applied to real-world problems. Students in the program will obtain a fundamental understanding of the current implementation platforms, as well as the operation and use of existing quantum computing hardware. Furthermore, students will acquire working knowledge of the relevant quantum information processing algorithms. In a broad sense, the certificate will prepare students for entering the quantum technology workforce and contributing to the development of new quantum technologies.

Admission Requirements

This post-baccalaureate certificate accepts applicants who hold bachelor's degrees in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, and Electrical and Computer Engineering from an accredited university and offers them opportunities to learn the fundamentals of quantum technology and quantum information. The aim is to provide a strong foundation in this emerging area, with a focus on quantum mechanical foundations, the implementation and use of existing quantum computing hardware tools and systems, technological advances on quantum level, and real-world applications.

Graduate Curriculum

The program consists of a 12-credit graduate curriculum for students who are already trained in disciplines like physics, chemistry, materials science, computer science, or other science and engineering fields. To complete the certificate, students take two required courses and two electives.

The two required core courses (6 credits) in quantum technology and quantum information provide an overview of the building blocks of quantum computers and basic principles of quantum information processing. The first required course, Quantum Technology, provides an applied physics/engineering treatise of the fundamental building blocks of quantum computers and covers different hardware platforms for realizing quantum bit–or qubit—technologies, as well as challenges for future advances. The second required course, Quantum Information, provides an introduction to the principles of quantum physics necessary for quantum computing and examines the way in which quantum information is stored and processed.

Two elective courses (6-credits) can be chosen from related graduate courses available in the College of Arts and Sciences Physics Department and in the College of Engineering's Materials Science and Engineering Department. The electives are selected from classes in Physics and Materials Engineering. A graduate-level STEM special topics course could also meet the requirement if deemed relevant by the student adviser. The courses prepare students for entering the growing workforce in this area and also build a foundation for advanced MS or PhD degrees in related disciplines.

Positioned for Growth

Students who successfully complete the certificate program in Quantum Technology and Quantum Information are able to apply in-depth knowledge and experience across this quickly emerging field and position themselves for advanced study. Drexel’s certificate program also serves as a gateway into a master’s of science in physics degree or a master’s of science in materials science and engineering degree. Students who wish to advance into these programs may transfer up to 12 credits towards the master’s degree if they meet predetermined grade requirements and comply with all additional admission requirements.