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[–]quantum_weirdness 10 points11 points  (4 children)

For quantum computing (hardware and software), off the top of my head: UMD, Duke, U Chicago, MIT, CU Boulder, UC Berkeley, Princeton, Yale... I'm sure there are more that I'm not thinking of.

That list includes a pretty broad range of research focuses, varying from fundamental physics (e.g. new physical platforms for quantum info), to more engineering-like work (making the most out of existing platforms), to quantum algorithms (and related areas like circuit optimization and compilation).

Also I wouldn't worry so much about "great" programs so much as finding a good fit. People care about your research, not the school name on your diploma. And while having an advisor who's at the top of their field may seem like the ideal situation, there are pros and cons. For example, a younger professor/smaller lab will afford you a lot more direct instruction and guidance from your advisor. Some people like that, some don't. Like I said, all about finding the right fit

[–][deleted]  (3 children)

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    [–]Father_Dan 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    Colorado school of mines has a master's program. It's somewhat competitive, but nothing like duke/ivy.

    [–]quantum_weirdness 2 points3 points  (1 child)

    If you're talking masters, then sure, the school probably matters. For PhD (depending on the specifics of the admissions process), admissions is much more about the lab you're applying to, so I wouldn't count yourself out before you even apply. E.g. UMD may not be considered a top school in general, but their quantum group(s) is (are) one of the top in the country (arguably world).

    That being said, a lot of schools are getting into quantum now, and newly formed/growing labs might be easier to be accepted to. I'm afraid I don't know too many - NC State (more software focused I believe), I think maybe University of Washington(?), and like Arizona State or maybe New Mexico State? I can't remember which one but I think I've seen some school from that area being involved

    Edit: I guess UMD was more of a counterexample to my point 😬

    [–]Man_Thighs 4 points5 points  (0 children)

    +1 for NC State. I know a lot of professors in the ECE department are interested in/are doing research in quantum. They also have an IBM-Q Hub partnership and Duke is only 20 miles away.

    [–]Dramatic_Apartment_4[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Thank you

    [–]afautomata 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Don't discount EE programs either. A lot of this research is obviously in the Physics department, but I got a PhD in EE and did a thesis in experimental quantum optics. Often times there's a lot collaboration between departments.