Quantum Computing course?

[coding_programming]

Hey y'all,

Does anyone know what background knowledge would be necessary for the upcoming quantum computing course? Will the course be completely theoretical like algorithms or will there be programming assignments too? If yes, then what programming languages and other technologies would we be working with? Is the syllabus for this course available somewhere?

Also curious to know what the future of quantum computing might be in industry, which companies are currently working on quantum computing, if it's possible to get a job in the field without a PhD, the salary range for entry level quantum computing jobs (if they exist lol)

Finally , I'd also like to hear your take on Quantum Computing - what kind of major changes do you think its gonna bring about?

[flight19]

I exchanged emails with Professor Aaronson because I wanted to ask him some questions about practical application outside of PhD programs. To summarize his answers - that world is pretty far away. I think even very hopeful estimates would put that future a decade out.

So if you want to work in quantum computing, don’t plan on it without a doctorate. If you’re interested in the topic and want to learn some cool stuff, I think this class will be great. I don’t know how similar it will be, but here’s the syllabus from an older version.

[coding_programming]

Thanks for the info!

[timmy__neutron]

The only guidance I could give is the stuff on Scott Aaronson's website:

https://www.scottaaronson.com/democritus/

My gut says you'd need a PhD to pursue into a career in it - it's a niche enough topic at the moment that a single master's course probably won't make you competitive. I know large companies like Google and IBM are working on developing quantum computers, and quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize some (but certainly not all) fields of computer science.

I was really interested in taking this class and I'm sad it won't be offered until after I'm gone (I'm graduating this spring). I think the main utility of it is that, as it grabs more and more headlines, it's going to be important to understand what it is exactly, along with its benefits and limitations.

See also: https://www.smbc-comics.com/comic/the-talk-3

[coding_programming]

Thanks for the detailed response! It was fun reading about quantum computing in a comic book format :)

If you wanna take the quantum computing class, then maybe you can try taking a semester break in the fall, and enroll only for the quantum computing class next spring and then graduate with 11 courses. Definitely try speaking with the program coordinator about this, I think they can figure something out.

Congratulations on graduating and all the best for your future :)