Master of Science in Quantum Information Science

Application
Deadlines

Spring 2023:
September 15, 2022

Fall 2023:
December 15, 2022

USC GRADUATE APPLICATION

From its advent in the 1990s, Quantum Information Science has grown rapidly as a field of research. It offers the promise of new and fundamentally different technologies for information processing. These technologies draw on the unintuitive properties of quantum mechanics to allow radically different and more efficient algorithms for some computationally hard problems; new types of sensors and measurement methods; and communication protocols that offer perfect security, reduced communication complexity, and other advantages. At the same time, the quantum information viewpoint provides new insight into quantum mechanics
itself.

In recent years, experimental progress has led to the construction of the first small quantum information processors and quantum communication systems. Both established companies (like IBM, Google, Intel and Microsoft) and startups (like ID Quantique, D-Wave, Rigetti and IonQ) have begun investing heavily into the development and commercialization of quantum technologies. Initially, the quantum workforce was engaged largely in research, and was dominated by scientists and engineers with PhDs. Now, there are increasing opportunities for engineers with non-research based backgrounds in quantum information science to work on the design, construction and programming of quantum systems. This Master's program is designed to fill this new need in a field with great potential for future growth.

International Students: This program is eligible for the OPT STEM extension.



Please Note: Requirements for graduation, course offerings, course availability, track offerings and any other degree requirements are subject to change. Students should consult with an academic advisor prior to registering for any classes.

  • A minimum of 28 units is required for the M.S. in Quantum Information Science degree
  • Required courses: 19-20 units
  • Elective Courses: 8-9 units
  • A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required for graduation
  • A maximum of 4 units of Directed Research (590 or 790) can be used as credit toward the degree

Detailed Program Curriculum and RequirementsSchedule of Classes


Spotlight Webinar: Recorded October 17, 2022


Department Profile


Published on June 2nd, 2020

Last updated on May 22nd, 2023