Introduction to Quantum Computing

Learn the fundamentals of quantum computing and discover its real-world applications with this online course from University College London.

Duration

2 weeks

Weekly study

5 hours

Premium course

What's included?

Accreditation

More info

Explore the difference between classical and quantum computing with UCL

Quantum computing is a rapidly advancing technology with the potential to transform industry and society.

On this two-week course, you’ll use video, active learning tasks, and group discussion to develop an understanding of the key theories and concepts which underpin quantum computing.

Learn about qubits, superposition, and measurement

Facilitated by world-leading experts from University College London’s Quantum Science and Technology institute, you’ll be guided through the fundamentals of quantum theory without the need for any in-depth mathematical knowledge.

You’ll be introduced to the definitions and properties of qubits, before comparing the characteristics of classical bits and quantum bits.

You’ll also get to take part in a live workshop, allowing you to have your questions answered in real-time by experts in the field.

Examine the potential power of quantum computers

Building on your understanding of quantum computing processes, you’ll look to the future and discuss the potential power of quantum computing.

You’ll investigate the limits of classical computing and identify how quantum computing can push physics and quantum theory in new and innovative directions. You’ll also acknowledge the limitations of quantum computing, giving you a rounded overview of this technology’s possible trajectory.

Discover quantum computing algorithms and applications

In the second week of this course, you’ll put your learning into context, discovering real-life applications of quantum computing and the problems it can address.

By the end of this course, you’ll have gained an understanding of the theories and concepts that underpin quantum computing. You’ll have contextualised this knowledge, using real-world applications, and be able to discuss quantum computing’s advantages and limitations.

  • Week 1

    Classical vs Quantum

    • Welcome to the course

      Science in the 20th century was dominated by the space race, a bid by research, government, and industry, to achieve dizzying new heights. How is the race for a quantum computer its 21st century equivalent?

    • Classical vs quantum physics

      What is quantum physics and how does it differ from classical physics?

    • Qubits, superposition, and measurement

      Quantum computers have the potential to be exponentially more powerful than classical computers. Discover how qubits, the building blocks of quantum computers, can unleash that power.

    • Challenge

      An assignment providing you with the opportunity to apply the knowledge you have learnt so far.

    • Summary

      A reflection on Week 1 of the course, the discussions you have participated in and the implications of quantum for the world of computing.

  • Week 2

    Algorithms, applications and platforms

    • Algorithms

      Quantum computers are uniquely suited to solving algorithms that prove very challenging and time-consuming for classical computers.

    • Applications

      A discussion around the potential applications of quantum computers.

    • Platforms

      There is no one method of success with this emergent technology, and many companies have developed unique products. Let's examine these technologies and consider which may be leading the race.

    • The future of quantum computers

      Quantum computing has progressed rapidly since the 1990s, but what can we expect in the future? Moreover, with any new technology there are choices to be made. What key questions do we need to ask about responsible innovation?

    • Challenge

      Here we challenge you to draw together everything you've learnt in the course and provide feedback to your fellow learners.

    • Summary

      A summary of the key themes we have looked at in Week 2.

    • Live workshop

      This week features a live virtual workshop over video conferencing platform Zoom. The workshop provides an opportunity to apply some of the knowledge and skills you have learnt, as well as ask the tutors any questions you have.

More courses you might like

Learners who joined this course have also enjoyed these courses.

©2025  onlincourse.com. All rights reserved