Curriculum

The Master of Science in Quantum is a full-time STEM-designated 30-point program divided into two tracks:

1. Engineering Track
2. Physics Track

The program starts in the fall semester, and students complete the program over three semesters, generally finishing it by December of the following year.

Students are required to complete a set of core and elective courses, jointly taught by Columbia Engineering and Columbia Physics Department faculty members.

We also collaborate with the Flatiron Institute (a privately funded institute with one department devoted to quantum physics) and industry partners in the quantum space to design curricula, provide content for courses, and offer internships to students.

Required Core Courses

15 credits of core courses are required for both tracks: 

1. COMS 4281 Introduction to Quantum Computing
2. COMS 4282 Quantum Information
3. ENGI E4000 Professional Development and Leadership
4. PHYS 4082 Experiments in Quantum Physics
5. PHYS 4084 Quantum Simulation and Computing Lab
6. PHYS GR6037 Quantum Mechanics I
7. PHYS GR6038 Quantum Mechanics II

Electives

Students will select from a variety of approved electives from Columbia Engineering and Columbia Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.  A selection of approved electives are listed below. Students consult their academic advisors to select appropriate electives to achieve their academic and professional goals.