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Graduate

MSc in Quantum Technologies

A taught interdisciplinary course covering quantum computing, sensing, and communications, with practical training and a four-month research project bridging academia and industry.

Full time

Open
Upcoming application deadline for 2027-28 entry:
12:00 midday UK time on Wednesday 27 January 2027

Expected length
1 year
Expected start date
October 2027
English language level
Higher level required

Application deadlines

12:00 midday UK time

Final application deadline for entry in 2027-28

Quantum Signal Computing conceptual visualisation

A visualisation of signal computing in quantum computers (Getty Images / XH4D)

About the course

Quantum technologies (across quantum computing, sensing and communications) have the potential to bring transformative changes across different sectors from scientific research to industrial applications.

The MSc in Quantum Technologies will provide you with the central technical background in these technologies, combined with hands-on practical training through short modules and research experience through an extended four-month project.

This course is taught in collaboration with the Departments of Engineering, Materials, Mathematics, Computer Science and Chemistry, providing an interdisciplinary overview. The course is designed to be accessible to students with a strong background in any of these areas of study.

At the end of the course, it is expected that you will have achieved the following learning objectives:

  • to have a technical overview of the principles underpinning quantum technologies
  • to understand the principles of quantum computing, sensing and communications
  • to have an overview of the state-of-the-art in hardware for quantum technologies
  • to have further detailed knowledge of specific topics within quantum technologies and their applications (through chosen option courses)
  • to appreciate the challenges and opportunities of translating quantum technologies to applications across different setups
  • to complete short training in transferable skills including presenting work
  • to have practical hands-on experience in practical techniques underpinning quantum technologies chosen from options ranging from laboratory techniques and control systems to programming of quantum computers
  • to have demonstrated competence in completing and presenting a research project, both in written and oral form

Course structure

This section provides an overview of the course structure, while details of the individual course components are provided below.

The academic year is split into three terms of eight weeks but work on the MSc course continues throughout the year and is not restricted just to term time.

During the three terms of the course, you will choose from modules on various aspects of quantum technologies.

There are two seminar-based compulsory modules comprising an Industry Seminar and a Graduate Public Engagement element. The Industry Seminar is assessed by a coursework report. Option modules are available in terms one and two.

You will work on a four-month research project and will be placed either within a University research team, or at an industrial partner organisation.

The course will be strongly connected to the emerging international quantum technologies industry, with regular industry seminars highlighting the opportunities and challenges of translating these technologies across different sectors, as well as entrepreneurship and IP management. Some projects will be directly connected to or based within industry research teams.

During term one (Michaelmas term), you will take:

  • Quantum Mechanics for Quantum Technologies (optional for students with previous quantum mechanics courses)
  • Introduction to Quantum Technologies

During term two (Hilary term), you will take:

  • Quantum Technologies and their applications
  • Hardware for Quantum Technologies

During terms one and two, you will take part in:

  • the Industrial Seminar
  • Quantum Technologies Practical Training

Students without formal training in quantum mechanics (typically students from a non-physics background), will take the Quantum Mechanics for Quantum Technologies course in Michaelmas term, which will prepare them for the other core modules and replace one option class.

Therefore, you will take either: 

  • Option A (for students with Quantum Mechanics in a Physics undergraduate qualification):  Three option module courses
  • Option B (generally for students without a background in quantum mechanics):  Quantum Mechanics for Quantum Technologies (MT) and two option module courses

Core components

You will take five or six core modules, complete a research project and submit a dissertation.

Option modules

You will choose your option modules. 

Course details

Entry requirements

For entry in 2027-28

Funding and costs

College preference

Before you apply

Completing your application

Contact details