Quantum Information Theory Graduate Program
Welcome to the UVic graduate program in Quantum Information Theory. We study the use and application of quantum information in
physics, theoretical
chemistry, and theoretical
computer science.
Graduate courses in this area are a blend of several areas and are supplemented by courses taken at the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University through the . Courses are taken by agreement with the research supervisor and the graduate advisor.
More information about the research program in quantum information and quantum algorithms is located at the website.The also develops algorithms and models for benchmarking and optimization of quantum computers and other quantum devices. See also the related research areas covered within the
condensed matter physics graduate program.
Students entering the graduate program at MSc level will need to complete the coursework requirements for the
MSc (Physics) degree. These include 7.5 course units (5 one-semester classes) for an MSc, and a further 1.5 units (1 one-semester class) for a PhD. For MSc students, the primary course requirements are normally completed during the fall and spring semesters of the first year. A typical core course list for incoming quantum information theory students is shown below. Additional courses may be taken as required in the fall or spring of the second year.
Additional 4th year courses may also be required for those students who have not already completed upper level courses in quantum mechanics (see e.g. ), electromagnetism (see e.g. ), statistical physics (PHYS 421), and introductory quantum computing (PHYS 223).
Fall term core courses include:
Quantum Mechanics
Classical Electrodynamics
Spring term core courses are chosen from the “Further MSc/PhD courses” based on availability with the research supervisor and graduate supervisor. The MSc program requires 3 more courses. The PhD program requires one more course beyond the MSc requirements.
Further courses which can be taken at the MSc or PhD level include:
Quantum Theory and Quantum Fields
Solid State Physics I
PHYS 513 Topics in Theoretical Physics: “Statistical Field Theory”
PHYS 550 Topics in Condensed Matter Physics: “Quantum Devices I"
PHYS 580 Directed Studies: “Entanglement Renormalization"
CHEM 555 Statistical Thermodynamics (odd years)
CHEM 577 Computational Chemistry (odd years)
Topics in Computer Systems and Software: "Quantum Algorithms and Software Engineering”
Students may need to take a course at another university (UBC, SFU) through the Western Dean’s Agreement, including introductory courses for quantum computing.
