After earning a master’s degree, most graduates set their sights on a doctoral degree or PhD. A PhD is the highest level of education, and earning this esteemed degree will skyrocket your employability potential, industry credibility, and salary range. In this article, we share the best PhDs in Quantum Computing and the expected PhD in Quantum Computing salary.
Besides being highly paid, this field of study offers many exciting opportunities to work with pioneering theory in quantum information technology. PhD in Quantum Computing students will participate in ground-breaking research and upon graduation will be eligible for the best quantum computing jobs in the tech industry.
What Is a PhD in Quantum Computing?
A PhD in Quantum Computing is the highest level of education for professionals in quantum technology. The degree takes four to six years to complete and covers different quantum computing theories, including quantum simulation, quantum sensing, quantum communication, and quantum information theory. The PhD degree facilitates advanced research and facilitates innovative discoveries.
How to Get Into a Quantum Computing PhD Program: Admission Requirements
The core requirements to get into a quantum computing PhD program are a master’s degree in computer science, math, physics, or a related field, a resume highlighting your work experience, letters of recommendation, and a GRE or GMAT score. Additional admission requirements include application fees, English proficiency test scores, transcripts, a statement of purpose, essays, and a high GPA.
Generally, these are the minimum PhD admission requirements, but the prerequisites can differ from school to school. You will find a detailed list of requirements on the selected school’s website.
PhD in Quantum Computing Admission Requirements
- Application form and fee
- Master’s degree in Physics, Computer Science, or a related field
- GRE, GMAT, and English proficiency test scores
- Two or three letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume
- Transcripts
Quantum Computing PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Quantum Computing?
It is extremely hard to get into a PhD program in quantum computing. Quantum computing is difficult to learn, and a PhD demands a lot of attention to detail, research, and one-on-one interactions between students and professors. That means that universities maintain small class sizes to ensure student success.
The Council of Graduate Schools survey indicates that the overall PhD acceptance rate is 22.3 percent. Public universities accept approximately 26.4 percent of applicants, while private universities accept 16.3 percent of applicants. These numbers will vary by school. For example, the University of South Carolina admits 10-15 percent of its PhD applicants, and Harvard University admits approximately seven percent of the doctoral degree applicants.
How to Get Into the Best Universities
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Best PhDs in Quantum Computing: In Brief
| School | Program | Online Option |
|---|---|---|
| California Institute of Technology | PhD in Computing and Mathematical Sciences | No |
| Capitol Technology University | PhD in Quantum Computing | Yes |
| Harvard University | PhD in Quantum Science and Engineering | Yes |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | PhD in Physics, Statistics, Data Science | No |
| Purdue University | PhD in Physics | No |
| University of California, Berkeley | PhD in Physics | No |
| University of Chicago | PhD in Quantum Science and Engineering | No |
| University of Maryland | PhD in Computer Science | Yes |
| University of Oxford | PhD in Computer Science | No |
| University of Waterloo | PhD in Physics (Quantum Information) | Yes |
Best Universities for Quantum Computing PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Quantum Computing
The best PhD quantum computing programs offer quality instruction in advanced quantum computing topics, research work, and unique assistantship opportunities. Some institutions also offer the flexibility of online learning. Keep reading for an overview of the best quantum computing PhD programs, including admission requirements and funding opportunities.
Can You Get a PhD in Quantum Computing Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Quantum Computing online. As technology continues to offer more flexibility, universities are adjusting their PhD learning formats, allowing students to complete these degrees at their pace and from desired locations. Below are the top five schools for an online PhD in Quantum Computing.
Best Online PhD Programs in Quantum Computing
| School | Program | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Bircham International University | PhD in Quantum Computing | 2 Years |
| Capitol Technology University | PhD in Quantum Computing | 2-4 Years |
| Harvard University | PhD in Quantum Science and Engineering | 5 Years |
| University of Maryland | PhD in Computer Science | 4 years |
| University of Waterloo | PhD in Computer Science (Quantum Information) | 4-5 Years |
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Quantum Computing?
It takes four to seven years to get a PhD in Quantum Computing. Students must complete advanced quantum computing coursework, pass a comprehensive exam, and submit original research work demonstrating quantum computing applications. The original research, also referred to as a dissertation, plays a significant role in determining how long your PhD takes.
Is a PhD in Quantum Computing Hard?
Yes, a PhD in Quantum Computing is hard. You must develop in-depth knowledge of quantum computers and the process of designing, developing, and building fully-functional quantum machines. A PhD in Quantum Computing involves advanced coursework that includes quantum mechanics, physics, computational intelligence, and big data. These courses are very technical and challenging for any student.
You must also submit an extensive original dissertation, which involves a lot of research. Generally, the dissertation totals 70,000 to 100,000 words. You will spend months discovering new quantum computing theories, developing concepts, and defending everything you discover. In a nutshell, you must be ready and committed before pursuing a PhD in Quantum Computing.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Quantum Computing?
It costs $8,000-$50,000 per year to get a PhD in Quantum Computing. According to a 2019 survey by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), PhD students in public institutions pay an average of $11,495 per year. Meanwhile, private institution tuition and fees average $23,138 per year.
It is important to note that these figures don’t represent the full cost of attendance, and you should also consider the cost of living, transportation, and supplies. You can always find the right estimate on the school’s website or through the admissions team.
How to Pay for a PhD in Quantum Computing: PhD Funding Options
The PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Quantum Computing include federal grad student loans, scholarships and grants, fellowships, assistantships, and self-funding.
Funding for quantum computing grad students comes from different sources, including universities, charities, government bodies, and quantum computing research institutions. You can find reliable funding options by talking to your peers, building your portfolio, saving up, or pursuing funded PhD programs in Quantum Computing.
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What Is the Difference Between a Quantum Computing Master’s Degree and PhD?
The differences between a quantum computing master’s degree and PhD are the time frame, coursework, funding, and career opportunities. Generally, students complete a Master’s in Quantum Computing before pursuing a PhD, but it is not mandatory for all academic institutions. A PhD takes approximately four to seven years, whereas you can complete your master’s in two years.
The PhD curriculum is very advanced compared to the master’s degree. You must submit a dissertation of your original research work and complete a comprehensive exam before earning your PhD. A PhD in Quantum Computing is also more expensive, but you have access to more funding avenues, including fellowships and assistantships.
Master’s vs. PhD in Quantum Computing Job Outlook
The job outlook for quantum computing professionals with a master’s degree is slightly higher than those with a PhD in the same field. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates computer and information scientists have a 22 percent job growth rate. These include quantum computing researchers, engineers, and scientists.
On the other hand, BLS classifies senior quantum computing professionals under physicists and astronomers, representing an 8 percent job growth rate over the next ten years. The job outlook may differ because a Master’s in Quantum Computing prepares you for industrial-oriented jobs, whereas a PhD is more focused on research and academic careers.
The difference in Salary for Quantum Computing Master’s vs. PhD
The salary difference for quantum computing master’s and PhD holders is slightly different, with PhD graduates earning more. Although there are no specific salary outlooks for quantum computing, PayScale statistics highlight salaries for computing professionals.
Generally, a PhD in Computing makes you eligible for an average salary of $134,000 per year, while a Master’s in Computing will earn you an average of $111,000 per year. Remember, these are blanket figures for computing jobs, and the salary will differ depending on your job title, location, and employer.
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Why You Should Get a PhD in Quantum Computing
You should get a PhD in Quantum Computing because of the career opportunities, higher earning potential, and extensive knowledge and research opportunities this degree provides. In addition, quantum computing is a highly technical field, and pursuing a PhD allows you to explore uncharted areas of this rapidly growing field.
Reasons for Getting a PhD in Quantum Computing
- Research Opportunities. A PhD involves a lot of research work, allowing you to make valuable contributions to the field of quantum computers. You will spend a year or more completing your dissertation of original research and making innovative discoveries, which will enhance your knowledge of quantum computing.
- Higher Earning Potential. A PhD in Quantum Computing is the highest level of education, which means you can negotiate for higher salaries in any job. Although PhD holders have a lower job outlook, they will still earn more than master’s degree holders and undergraduate professionals.
- Career Opportunities. With advancements in quantum technology, more people pursue computing careers, which makes this field a highly competitive industry. Earning a PhD in Quantum Computing places you ahead of your competition. It is a highly technical field that requires extensive knowledge, and employers will prioritize those with advanced credentials.
- Become a Quantum Computing Expert. Through extensive research, projects, and advanced coursework, you will gain expert-level knowledge of quantum computers and become an expert in all things quantum computing. Quantum computing PhD holders gain advanced skills in various areas, including quantum research, algorithmic thinking, and quantum software tools.
- Reach your Full Potential. Earning a PhD in Quantum Computing allows you to reach your full potential. Pursuing a PhD in Quantum Computing is very hard and tests your resilience. Committing to the end allows you to grow professionally and individually through discipline and dedication.
Getting a PhD in Quantum Computing: Quantum Computing PhD Coursework
Getting a PhD in Quantum Computing involves completing extensive coursework that tackles every area of quantum computing. The standard quantum computing PhD coursework includes advanced courses, comprehensive exams, research work, assistantships, and a dissertation thesis. Below is a further analysis of the coursework, graduation requirements, and career outlook.
Quantum Optics
Quantum optics is an area of physics that focuses on applying quantum mechanics principles to occurrences involving light. You will learn about the nature of individual quanta of light, known as a proton, and its interaction with atoms and molecules. You will also explore the history of quantum optics, the first significant developments, and their applications to quantum computing.
Quantum Information Processing
Quantum information processing (QIP) is a core quantum computing course because it tackles an important part of the quantum computing system. This course will teach you how to process, analyze, and interpret quantum data using quantum information processing techniques. You will also explore quantum circuits, quantum control, quantum error-correction systems, quantum complexity theory, and quantum algorithms.
Implementation of Quantum Information Processors
In this course, you will discover the obstacles to implementing a quantum computing device and how to overcome them. You will learn about minimizing control and manipulation to achieve gate operations and the significance of quantum processors in QIP. You will also discover how quantum processors perform calculations based on probability.
Quantum Material Modeling
Quantum materials include topological insulators, magnets, superconductors, and multiferroics. You will learn how quantum materials affect current theory and contribute to quantum computing. Additionally, the course explores the tools and methods required to analyze, synthesize and manipulate these materials.
Quantum Cryptography
Quantum cryptography or quantum key contribution refers to the process of encrypting and protecting quantum information using quantum mechanics principles. You will learn to apply quantum cryptography to data transmission, avoiding leaks and hacking incidents.
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How to Get a PhD in Quantum Computing: Doctoral Program Requirements
To get a PhD in Quantum Computing, you must fulfill the doctoral program requirements. The requirements include a dissertation thesis, exam results, course requirements, candidacy, assistantship requirements, residency, and research seminars.
The requirements are diverse and may vary depending on the academic institution. If you are wondering how to get a PhD in Quantum Computing, read the below list detailing five standard graduation requirements for quantum computing PhD students.
Potential Careers With a Quantum Computing Degree
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PhD in Quantum Computing Salary and Job Outlook
Graduates with a PhD in Quantum Computing enjoy high salaries and access to many job industries. Generally, you will earn between $90,000 and $150,000 or higher depending on your employer. The job outlook is promising because it requires applicants with extensive knowledge in the field, while an increasing number of organizations are implementing quantum computers.
What Can You Do With a PhD in Quantum Computing?
With a PhD in Quantum Computing, you can work as a senior quantum scientist, quantum senior software engineer, quantum optics researcher, and quantum computing research lead. Quantum computing PhD graduates have access to a wide range of career opportunities at senior levels.
You can also apply for jobs across different industries, including health care, academia, Blockchain and cryptocurrencies, supply chain management, cyber security, and finance. Many major companies like IBM Quantum, Microsoft Azure Quantum, Cambridge Quantum, and Amazon are developing quantum computing services.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Quantum Computing
- Quantum computing professor
- Quantum optics researcher
- Quantum error correction researcher
- Quantum software engineer
- Quantum research scientist
What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Quantum Computing
According to PayScale data, a PhD in Computing makes you eligible for an average salary of $134,000. This figure includes all computing professionals, but quantum computing professionals have even higher earning potential.
Highest-Paying Quantum Computing Jobs for PhD Grads
| Quantum Computing PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Quantum Systems Manager | $159,010 |
| Quantum Physicist | $152,430 |
| Quantum Information Research Scientist | $131,490 |
| Quantum Computing Engineer | $108,774 |
| Quantum Computing Professor | $93,070 |
Best Quantum Computing Jobs with a Doctorate
A Doctorate in Quantum Computing opens doors to jobs with lucrative salaries and amazing benefits. The best quantum computing jobs with a doctorate are primarily senior roles that come with a wide range of responsibilities. Below, you will explore a detailed overview of the highest-paying jobs for PhD graduates, including job outlook, and responsibilities.
Is a PhD in Quantum Computing Worth It?
Yes, a PhD in Quantum Computing is worth it. A PhD is the highest level of education and gives you in-depth knowledge of quantum computing skills. It comes with a wide selection of benefits including higher earning potential, research opportunities, and senior career opportunities.
The future of quantum computing is promising as more organizations develop quantum computing cloud services and design quantum computers. You can expand your opportunities across different industries and leave your mark on the development of quantum computers.
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PhD in Quantum Computing FAQ
You can get a job in quantum computing by pursuing an accredited education path, improving your quantum computing skills, and gaining experience through internships and entry-level or mid-level jobs. You can also expand your portfolio by working on a wide variety of quantum computing projects. A PhD in the field will be the peak academic achievement on your CV.
No, you don’t need a PhD in quantum computing to pursue senior careers. The quantum computing industry accommodates master’s degree holders for senior roles. However, pursuing a PhD boosts your research capabilities.
Yes, quantum computing is the future. Many organizations are adapting quantum computing applications, and the industry is witnessing a rise in the number of quantum computing startups. The growth also indicates job security throughout the future for quantum computing professionals.
The programming languages you can use in quantum computing include QML, Quantum Lambda Calculus, QMASM, QCL, and Silq. You will learn how to use these languages to translate data into ideas that quantum computers can implement.
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