Quantum Computing
Master of Science in Physics
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.
Is this program right for you?
Governments and private companies around the world are increasingly investing in quantum computing as the field continues to develop this promising technology. The University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Master of Science in Physics: Quantum Computing is the first graduate degree of its kind in the U.S. Our program serves as the premier training ground for students to evaluate, synthesize, and solve current challenges in the physics of quantum computing.
UW–Madison’s Physics Department has unparalleled expertise and research facilities. Through intensive face-to-face coursework and laboratory training research, your cohort will work together to understand the background quantum theory and its application to quantum computing technology.
The Department of Physics also has deep connections to tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Intel, and we have collaborated with several of them to conduct cutting-edge research projects. These giants of industry hire many of our advanced physics graduates.
When you graduate from UW–Madison’s premier quantum physics graduate program, you embark with the skills, credentials, and connections to seek employment opportunities from the leaders in quantum theory, technology, and computing.
Is this program right for you?
Governments and private companies around the world are increasingly investing in quantum computing as the field continues to develop this promising technology. The University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Master of Science in Physics: Quantum Computing is the first graduate degree of its kind in the U.S. Our program serves as the premier training ground for students to evaluate, synthesize, and solve current challenges in the physics of quantum computing.
UW–Madison’s Physics Department has unparalleled expertise and research facilities. Through intensive face-to-face coursework and laboratory training research, your cohort will work together to understand the background quantum theory and its application to quantum computing technology.
The Department of Physics also has deep connections to tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Intel, and we have collaborated with several of them to conduct cutting-edge research projects. These giants of industry hire many of our advanced physics graduates.
When you graduate from UW–Madison’s premier quantum physics graduate program, you embark with the skills, credentials, and connections to seek employment opportunities from the leaders in quantum theory, technology, and computing.
Admissions requirements
All applicants must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree in a related STEM discipline.
- Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0.
- Submit GRE scores using code 1846. (The Admissions Committee will NOT require GRE test scores to be submitted for any fall 2021 applications, and will not take into consideration any submitted GRE test scores in our review process.)
- 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
Connect with us
Pathways: MS Information
November 09
9-10 a.m.
Learn about the rapidly expanding field of data and information from a panel of faculty from the School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences.
Register for Faculty Spotlight: MS Information
Virtual Open House: Explore and Apply to Graduate School at UW-Madison
November 10
8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Meet with staff and faculty from our 160+ graduate degree programs, gain insight into the application process, and discover the array of services and resources available to graduate students at UW–Madison.
Register for Grad School Virtual Open House
Program highlights
- UW–Madison’s Master of Science in Physics: Quantum Computing program is the first of its kind. It serves as the training ground for students to evaluate and solve current challenges in quantum computing.
- Our program is accelerated, so you complete your degree in just one year.
- Quantum Computing is an emerging, dynamic field, so you are on the forefront of discovery at UW—a prestigious research university.
How you'll learn
- Twelve months of full-time study on campus to earn your degree.
- Attend intensive face-to-face instructional courses.
- Experience one-on-one contact with faculty.
- Carry out experiments in a laboratory setting.
Sample curriculum
Fall Semester
- Introduction to Quantum Mechanics or Quantum Mechanics
- Thermal Physics or Statistical Mechanics
- Introduction to Quantum Computing Physics Elective
Spring Semester
- Solid State Physics or Advanced Solid State Physics
- Atomic and Quantum Physics or Introduction to Atomic Structure
- Advanced Quantum Computing
- Physics Elective
Summer Semester
- Quantum Computing Laboratory
- Directed Study
**Suggested curriculum
Job outlook
- Systems Engineer
- Software Development Engineer
- Project Manager
- Physicist
- Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- Educational Services
- INTEL
- IBM
- Honeywell
- Microsoft Corporation
- Amazon
Source: Burning Glass Technologies: Labor Insight. 2020.
Burning Glass Technologies’ Market Salary is an estimated expected salary. Market Salary uses machine learning algorithms to account for experience, skill, and education among other factors that may impact individual salaries.
Ready to learn more about Quantum Computing?
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Connect with our enrollment coaches
Our friendly, knowledgeable enrollment coaches are here to answer your questions. Contact an enrollment coach to:
- Learn how to make this program work with your life/schedule
- Verify credit transfers
- Get help with your application
- Determine if financial aid is available
Visit with our coaches on campus or at an upcoming student fair in your area. Search student fairs & events
