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Physics: Quantum Computing MS

Master of Science in Physics

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Is this program right for you?

Governments and private companies around the world are increasingly investing in the promising technology of quantum computing. UW–Madison’s Master of Science in Physics: Quantum Computing is the first graduate degree of its kind in the US and the premier training ground for students to evaluate, synthesize, and solve current challenges in the physics of quantum computing.

  • Our accelerated program gives you hands on experience in quantum computing and networking, quantum sensing, and quantum materials through research opportunities with our Wisconsin Quantum Institute faculty
  • Intensive face-to-face coursework and laboratory training research provides you with the background quantum theory and its application to quantum computing technology
  • The Department of Physics has deep connections with industry and is part of a large Midwest-based Quantum Ecosystem that is rapidly expanding

Education that works for you

Gain advanced conceptual, mathematical, and experimental knowledge of quantum computing to promote the development of this future technology with UW–Madison’s Master of Science in Physics: Quantum Computing.

Program type

Master’s degree

Graduate education in a specific area of expertise

Explore program types

Degree awarded

Master of Science in Physics

Commitment

1 year

Tuition

$1,600 per credit

Format

Accelerated

Fast-paced program with higher course load

Face-to-face

On-campus, in-person courses

Credits

30 graduate credits

Admission terms

Program only admits for fall term

Offered by

Department of Physics

STEM opt eligible

Yes

International eligibility

Yes

Application deadlines

Fall 2025

  • Deadline: March 15, 2025

Fall 2026

  • Deadline: March 15, 2026

Fall 2027

  • Deadline: March 15, 2027
View UW–Madison’s Guide

Your questions, answered

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Admissions and events

Program requirements

Applicants must:

  • Have a bachelor’s degree in a related STEM discipline
  • Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
  • Submit evidence of English language proficiency, if applicable. The required proficiency scores are: TOEFL IBT 92, PBT 580; or IELTS 7.0

Application materials required

  • Online application
  • Resume/CV
  • Statement of purpose
  • Transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation

For complete application details visit UW–Madison’s Guide →

October 15, 2024 from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Program Overview & Career Outlook: Library & Information Studies MA

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October 16, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Program Overview & Career Outlook: Information MS

Join program staff to learn more about the Master of Science in Information program. Topics will include information about the curriculum, concentration areas, tuition and more.

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November 19, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Program Overview: Physics: Quantum Computing

Get more information about the Physics: Quantum Computing MS program including curriculum, application process, and potential career paths.

Register now →

December 4, 2024 from 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

iSchool Master’s Programs

Learn strategies to make your application stand out, whether you are applying to the Information MS program or the Library & Information Studies MA program.

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January 23, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Faculty Spotlight: Physics: Quantum Computing

Get a quick overview of the Physics: Quantum Computing MS program and connect with a couple of our faculty that will talk about their research activities.

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February 4, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Application Assistance: Physics: Quantum Computing MS

Learn how to make your application stand out and to discuss issues regarding the application process. Current MSPQC students will join to share their program experience and answer questions you may have!

Register now →

February 18, 2025 from 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Application Assistance: iSchool Master’s Programs

Learn strategies to make your application stand out, whether you are applying to the Information MS program or the Library & Information Studies MA program.

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Results that work for you

Physics: Quantum Computing MS

$117,600

Median salary in 2021. Source: Lightcast™ 2022.

Job titles

  • Quantum software developer
  • Quantum algorithm developer
  • Quantum software engineer
  • Quantum cryogenic engineer
  • System architect/designer
  • Data scientist
  • Product sales/marketing
  • Technical sales/marketing

Top industries

  • Manufacturing
  • Health care and social assistance
  • Professional, scientific, and technical services
  • Administrative and support and waste management and remediation services

7.7%

Projected growth from 2020-2030. Sources: Hughes, C., Finke, D., German, D. A., Merzbacher, C., Vora, P. M., & Lewandowski, H. J. (2022). Assessing the needs of the quantum industry. IEEE Transactions on Education. Dargan, J. 2022 . Top 8 quantum computing jobs and careers in 2022. The Quantum Insider.

What you’ll learn

Master the physics behind quantum computing with the Physics: Quantum Computing MS program. You’ll be prepared for this rapidly evolving field by studying a combination of core physics and cutting-edge topics like quantum algorithms.

For complete curricular details visit UW-Madison’s Guide →
  • Quantum computing
  • Quantum algorithms
  • Quantum hardware
  • Quantum materials
  • Quantum sensing

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