Columbia’s Quantum Master’s Kicks Off

With the fall semester getting underway, Columbia is excited to welcome its inaugural quantum master’s class to campus! Sixteen students—some joining from Columbia’s backyard and others coming from as far abroad as China, India, and Vietnam—will spend the next 15 months learning the fundamentals of quantum mechanics and about cutting-edge developments in quantum science and technologies, including computing, information and networks, sensing, and more. 

“These are ambitious students, many of whom are coming from non-traditional backgrounds into this master’s program, who see the potential of quantum science and technology,” said program co-director and professor of mechanical engineering James Schuck. “We are excited to help them become leaders in these rapidly emerging fields.”

The quantum master’s program, which was approved in 2022 and opened to applicants last fall, will be taught by faculty from the Faculty of Arts & Sciences and Columbia Engineering. The students will be administratively part of the Department of Electrical Engineering, which hosted its graduate program orientation and welcomes sessions on Thursday, August 29. 

Some of the students enrolled in the inaugural cohort are looking to strengthen their knowledge of quantum mechanics in anticipation of pursuing PhD, while others, many of whom are returning to academia after years in the workforce, are keen to explore how quantum science and technology can enhance their current skills and open doors to new opportunities in industries that increasingly require specialized education beyond an undergraduate degree. 

“Our goal is to provide our quantum master’s students with the knowledge and skills they will need to join the quantum workforce or pursue continuing education in quantum science, depending on their interests and aptitudes,” said co-director and professor of physics Abhay Pasupathy. 

All students will complete core coursework in quantum mechanics, experiments in quantum physics, professional development and leadership, and quantum computing, including hands-on work in Professor Sebastian Will’s Quantum Simulation and Computing Lab. They will take additional coursework in either the program’s physics or engineering tracks and over the course of the program, they will have opportunities to conduct research with Columbia faculty members and participate in summer internships.

Prospective students can learn more about the program and find information about applying to join the second quantum cohort at https://quantum.engineering.columbia.edu/. Applications will be due in February.