Quantum computers are machines that use quantum physics to perform computations and store data. This exciting new technology could be the beginning of a new era for computers. The best way to learn about this cutting-edge technology is with quantum computing courses.
Explore the possibilities of learning this captivating technology using this article. We’ll talk you through what a quantum computer is, how to learn quantum technologies, and the best courses out there. Are you ready for the quantum revolution?
What Is a Quantum Computer?
A quantum computer is based on a quantum bit or qubit. While traditional computers store binary values of 0s and 1s, the quantum computer has a greater scope by utilizing the fundamentals of quantum physics.
The subject of quantum computing can be confusing. These machines operate using laws of physics that deal in the smallest scales of nature: electrons, protons, atoms, and molecules. It’s a whole different world than the one we live in. Notably, small particles like electrons can be in different places at the same time. In binary terms, an electron can be both 0 and 1.
So in practice, how does a quantum computer perform differently than the computer in our office? That’s the difference between a lightbulb and a candle, or a car and a rocket. To understand more about these machines’ capabilities, we need to delve into this revolutionary tech even more.
Future Applications of Quantum Computing
The future of quantum computing is fascinating. Operating on the smallest scale using quantum mechanics leads to an enormous amount of opportunities. Discover some applications below.
Memory
Already, a quantum computer has outperformed the world’s largest supercomputer. And that was only at 53 qubits. If a quantum computer were to have 300 qubits, its memory capacity would be greater than the number of atoms in the universe.
Private Keys
Hackers regularly break into networks while we use our current security systems and traditional computers. As it stands, companies often employ ethical hackers to defend systems from those nefarious black hats. But quantum computers could help create private keys for encrypting messages by utilizing those uncertain binary values.
This means that a hacker would need to break the laws of quantum physics to access data. Needless to say, banks and other organizations are very interested in this new technology.
Healthcare and Medicine
This technology could also transform healthcare, making calculations of atoms in molecules a much simpler task. The quantum computer is already functioning at this scale after all. Better simulations during drug development could help us cure more diseases. This exciting new technology will be very important to research scientists and medical professionals alike.
Artificial Intelligence
AI, machine learning, computer algorithms, and artificial neural networks will also evolve with quantum computers. How these applications will function with quantum information is hard to say. But it will undoubtedly be a leap from what was possible with classic computers.
The Environment
Quantum dots and quantum computing may help to reduce emissions and find new sources of energy and material. The creation of solar panels and the ability to better capture energy from our sun is one area where quantum computing will surely contribute.
Information Teleportation
Lastly, and maybe most fascinating, is the mind-boggling possibility of teleportation. Imagine a quantum Internet that moves information faster than the speed of light. Atoms could be transported to the furthest reaches of our universe. This sci-fi concept will soon be a reality with quantum computing.
Learning Quantum Computing
Quantum computer is a relatively up-and-coming field, having started around the 1980s. Therefore, there are very few quantum computer degrees. Instead, it is usually an option within a computer science degree or as part of a school’s research center.
For those of you no longer in University, no need to panic as there are plenty of courses on quantum computing. Check our section below to find some excellent online courses to learn this fascinating topic.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Quantum Computing
This really depends on your goals. But with so many large companies investing in this new technology, there are many resources online to help you learn about quantum computers. Just having programming knowledge might allow you to practice programming a quantum computer today for free.
But if you want to professionally program these machines, you’ll need to study mathematics for machine learning, programming, and specialized quantum computer programming. These subjects can be learned at a university or online and sometimes even for free. To build and design quantum computers, you will need to earn a PhD in physics.
How to Learn Quantum Computing: Step-by-Step
Below is a step-by-step guide to start learning this new technology and further your career.
- Traditional computer programming. Having a foundation of programming languages will be very beneficial before you start working on quantum computers. There are many tools out there to help you learn coding online, from programming bootcamps to free coding classes found online (check out Khan Academy below).
- Mathematics. Next is math, which may or may not be your favorite subject. There’s just no getting around it. This subject is critical for quantum computing. Subjects like linear algebra, calculus, statistics, and probability are all essential.
- Physics. First understanding the laws of quantum physics will also help you learn how quantum computers work. These laws help mold your quantum algorithms and quantum simulators.
- Quantum computer course. The next step is to learn the core principles, programming language, and fundamentals of quantum computing. See below for some options and start learning qubit programming.
- Use other resources. Next, start playing with IBM’s online quantum computers available to the public. There are also many fascinating books and resources to help fill in the gaps.
- Join an open-source community. Next, put yourself out there in various quantum groups hosted by IBM. Expand your understanding of quantum programming code Qiskit Terra. Also, look at Qiskit Aqua’s resources for creating algorithms and applications. You can use this great information to implement quantum algorithms, improve performance, maintain vertical applications (like machine learning, chemistry, optimization, and finance), and enhance core infrastructures.
- IBM. Apply for an internship or other opportunity at IBM. There are plenty of opportunities for quantum computing students of every level.
The Best Quantum Computing Courses and Training
Discover the wonders of quantum computers and learn about how they work, their mechanical requirements, how to build quantum algorithms, and much more through these exciting courses. We have categorized these opportunities by in-person programs, paid online courses, and free online courses to give you a range of options.
Best In-Person Quantum Computing Courses
Below are some university courses. These are great for students who aim to build and develop quantum computers and who want to complete a PhD in physics.
Harvard University
Quantum Information Science (Research)
- Where: Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Time: Varies
The quantum computer came from quantum physics theory and it’s hard to find a university to compete with Harvard’s program on this topic. Students will learn quantum mechanics, atomic physics, molecular physics, relativity, nuclear and elementary particle physics, radiation, and radioactive decay.
Harvard is a competitive option. But they have one of the best great centers of research for quantum information science where they work on subjects like quantum computer hardware, quantum algorithms, and much more.
MIT – xPro
- Quantum Computing Fundamentals
- Where: Cambridge, Massachusetts.
- Time: Four weeks per course (two in total)
- Price: $2,149
This extensive two-part course by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology teaches students about the difference between quantum and classical algorithms, engineering requirements for both kinds of algorithms, the mathematical description of quantum states, and the scientific limits of quantum algorithms for chemistry and optimization.
University of California – Berkeley
- Berkeley Quantum Information and Computation Center
- Where: Berkeley, California
- Time: Varies
- Price: N/A (For students of the university & researchers)
Researchers from the colleges of chemistry, physical sciences, engineering, and mathematical theory have all united to work on quantum research at this center. Together they work on quantum algorithms, quantum devices, quantum cryptography, quantum information theory, quantum control, and even more experimental aspects of quantum computers.
Best Online Quantum Computing Courses
Below are some online courses on quantum computing or related topics. These are great for all levels as well as those seeking certifications.
Coursera
Programming a Quantum Computer with Qiskit
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Physical Basics of Quantum Computing
IBM Data Science Professional Certificate
- Where: Online
- Time: Between 10 hours and four months
- Price: First seven days are free and then the price varies
Here are some great introductory courses by Coursera, provided by some of the top universities. Explore introductions to quantum computing principles, programming with Qiskit, and even gain a professional certificate from IBM in data science.
edX
- The Quantum Internet and Quantum Computers
- Where: Online
- Time: Six weeks
- Price: Free (certification $49.28)
These are ideal for students who are beginners in the subject and who want to understand quantum computing and the quantum internet. In six weeks, students will learn the basic principles of this technology. They can also add a certification for a fee.
Future Learn
- Understanding Quantum Computers
- Where: Online
- Time: Four Weeks
- Price: Free (paid certification)
In this quantum-computer focused Future Learn course, students will study a few critical topics. They’ll investigate the reasons for building quantum computers, quantum computing algorithms, and the hardware needed.
Free Online Quantum Computing Courses
Below are some online quantum computer courses that are free. These all contain vital knowledge for beginners interested in quantum devices and provide a great starting point.
QuSoft – Research Centre for Quantum Software
- The Quantum Quest
- Where: Online
- Time: Four weeks
- Price: Free
This web class for high school students is organized by a Dutch university and QuSoft. Alongside video lessons and extensive lecture notes, you’ll get to use a quantum simulator named Quirky. This application can run in your web browser.
- Machine Learning Crash Course
- Where: Online
- Time: 15 hours
- Prerequisites: None
- Price: Free
In this Google short course, students learn about machine-learning concepts. If you are already studying quantum computers but also want to explore the helpful field of machine learning then this is the course for you.
Khan Academy
College Computer Science Principles
- Where: Online
- Time: Varies
- Price: Free
Khan Academy is a wonderful learning resource. It has excellent free classes on computer programming, linear algebra, math, and computer science topics. These are perfect for those who need good foundational knowledge before exploring quantum technologies, machine learning, and more.
Best Quantum Computing Books
Here are some pivotal texts on different aspects of quantum computers. Add these to your study list to learn about programming algorithms, hands-on approaches in the field, or introductions to the topic.
Programming Quantum Computers: Essential Algorithms and Code, Eric Johnston, Mercedes Gimeno–Segovia & Nic Harrigan
This book provides a guide for programmers to understand quantum computing. Rather than focus on math and theory, you’ll work with examples that highlight this technology’s unique capabilities.
Quantum Computing for Everyone, Chris Bernhardt
In this MIT Press book, Chris Bernhardt offers an introduction to quantum computing accessible to anyone comfortable with high school-level mathematics. It’s perfect for those who wish to learn about entanglement, qubits, quantum teleportation, quantum algorithms, and much more.
Quantum Computing: An Applied Approach, Jack D. Hidary
This book explores quantum computing with a hands-on approach in coding. It is a great read that brings these concepts together. This work is aimed at both students and or for corporate technical training.
The Best Online Quantum Computing Resource
This is the go-to resource for quantum computing available online today. IBM is the one-stop-shop for learning about quantum computers.
ibm.com/quantum-computing
Explore IBM’s pages for learning quantum computing, quantum solutions for businesses and researchers, and, most importantly, their IBM Quantum Experience. With this, you can use a quantum computer simulation from anywhere in the world. Also, check out their exciting internship opportunities.
Should You Study Quantum Computing?
Do you love traditional computing topics like programming and engineering but have a keen interest in quantum physics? Then consider learning about quantum computing. Join this tech revolution and learn about what’s possible.
If you want to work in sci-fi areas like teleportation, then begin taking quantum computing courses today. At Career Karma, we hope this guide ignited your passion, gave you some insights, and will teleport you to your dream job.
If you’re still looking for more details on how to learn coding, nanotechnology, or other areas related to quantum computing, head to our blog to continue learning.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
