can you get a phd in quantum physics

Top 20 Quantum Computing Masters & Ph.D. Degree Programs in 2024

Kenna hughes-castleberry.

• June 6, 2022

Because quantum computing requires a background in research, it’s important for those entering the quantum workforce to go through one of the many rigorous quantum computing Ph.D. or master’s programs.

There are many universities around the world offering quantum computing as a graduate program. Many of them have also spawned some of the biggest names in quantum computing, allowing a bridge to form between research and industry. This is especially beneficial for students looking to transition from academia into a quantum computing job .

While the choices of quantum computing degree programs seem nearly endless, we at Quantum Insider want to offer a summarized list of what we believe are a few of the top ones to get a Ph.D. or master’s in quantum computing. This is not at all exhausting as many universities continue to advance their quantum computing programs or work with companies to help enhance opportunities for their students.

We’ve organized a list of the top 20 quantum computing master’s and Ph.D. programs to get a degree in 2024. Enjoy!

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• 7 Quantum Computing Books to Read in 2024 [Ranked & Reviewed]

20 Quantum Computing Degree Programs

1. mit’s lincoln laboratory.

It’s no surprise that the top quantum computing graduate programs are hosted by some of the most prestigious schools. MIT is no exception, as its Lincoln Laboratory studies integrated nano-systems and quantum information. MIT’s masters in quantum computing focus on trapped-ion qubits as well as designing integrated quantum circuits. The laboratory offers several different projects to work on, all with real-world applications.

2. University of California Berkeley

UC Berkeley is one of the many universities in California looking into quantum computing , mimicking the hub of activity by quantum companies in that area. The Berkeley Lab works on harnessing quantum computing to help solve real-world issues. With research topics ranging from quantum materials to even training the quantum workforce, UC Berkeley’s quantum computing masters program offers a multi-disciplinary approach.

3. University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is one of the top quantum computing universities as it is home to the Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE). The CQE connects other universities in the Midwest, as well as companies and other organizations to discuss developments in quantum technology. Because of the CQE, their quantum computing graduate students get exclusive networking opportunities and the ability to work on cutting-edge research.

4. University of Maryland’s Joint Quantum Institute (JQI)

The University of Maryland’s JQI offers a unique experience for students, as it includes quantum scientists from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the University of Maryland, and the Laboratory for Physical Sciences (LPS). With this diversity in researchers, students have a wide range of quantum degree programs to choose from, including theoretical and experimental quantum physics.

5. University of Southern California’s Center for Quantum Information Science and Technology (CQIST)

Like UC Berkeley, USC’S CQIST focuses on quantum information science. However, its main focuses are on quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum information theory. To research these subjects in their master’s and Ph.D. programs, CQIST brings in experts from both the school of Arts and Sciences and Engineering, giving all students an interdisciplinary focus on quantum computing technology.

6. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Studying quantum computing at Caltech, students become part of the university’s Institute for Quantum Information and Matter ( IQIM ). This institute is a National Science Foundation Physics Frontier Center , one of many government centers that encourage global collaboration and offer unique opportunities to quantum computing masters and Ph.D. students. These centers also work to give extra activities to enhance student education.

7. Stanford University

Stanford University has multiple researchers studying quantum computing, including the Q-Farm , an acronym standing for Quantum Fundamentals, Architectures, and Machine learning initiative. Q-Farm collaborates with Stanford’s National Acceleration Laboratory ( SLAC ) to develop answers to some of the biggest challenges for quantum computing.

8. Harvard University

Harvard University hosts the Harvard Quantum Initiative , which recently released a new quantum computing Ph.D. program in quantum science and engineering. The Harvard Quantum Initiative has a bustling hub of researchers focusing on properly training the next quantum workforce, while also working with industry partners to advance this technology. They offer a prize for Ph.D. researchers in quantum engineering as well as several summer research programs.

9. Carnegie Mellon University

The Pittsburgh Quantum Institute ( PQI ) at Carnegie Mellon University hosts over 100 members and workers to create a multidisciplinary quantum computing graduate program that involves engineering, business, philosophy of science, and other fields. PQI offers many opportunities to its quantum engineering students, including travel awards, poster sessions, public lectures, and outreach activities. The PQI also works closely with other centers, like the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center, to work on this next-generation quantum technology.

10. University of Colorado Boulder

Within the University of Colorado Boulder lies JILA , a leading quantum physics degree institute created by a partnership between the University and NIST. JILA hosts its own NSF Physics Frontier Center, as well as several other centers focused on quantum computing and laser systems. Several of the scientists within JILA work closely with quantum computing companies, allowing their master’s and Ph.D. students better networking opportunities within Colorado, a growing hub of quantum activity.

11. The University of Waterloo

Canada’s University of Waterloo is one of the best well-known universities for quantum computing due to its Institute for Quantum Computing . With over 29 faculty members and 300 researchers, their quantum computing Ph.D. program works to train the next generation of the quantum workforce through global collaborations involving other universities, organizations, and quantum companies.

12. The University of Bristol

Both the Bristol Quantum Information Institute and its Quantum Engineering Technology labs help make the university one of the top places to get a Ph.D. or master’s in quantum computing. The Quantum Engineering Technology Labs develop prototypes for quantum applications, from computing to sensing to simulations. With a group of mentors and advisors, students of this quantum computing degree program will learn more about the career paths within this field and be assisted in their journey.

13. The University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge has bolstered its reputation in quantum computing due to the company spin-offs from the university. Within the university are many research groups that study quantum devices and nano-systems. Because of its reputation, the University of Cambridge brings opportunities for network connections within the UK’s quantum hub.

14. Oxford University

Perhaps the largest center for quantum research in the UK, Oxford University ‘s quantum computing graduate program hosts 38 different research teams and over 200 researchers. As their focus is to harness the power of quantum computing, students get hands-on experience developing next-level quantum technology, while being in the center of the UK’s quantum network.

15. Ecole Polytechnique

The Institut Polytechnique de Paris is one of France’s most prestigious universities, as it hosts the Center for Theoretical Physics ( CPHT ). Their quantum physics degree programs offer students a wide range of physics topics, from condensed matter to particle physics.

16. Delft University of Technology

Located in the Netherlands, Delft University’s Department of Quantum and Computer Engineering ( QCE ) combines computer science with quantum computing. In their quantum engineering degree program, students research quantum architecture and circuitry, combining it with computer design.

17. Austrian Academy of Sciences

The Institute for Quantum Optics and Quantum Information ( IQOQI ) lies within the Austrian Academy of Sciences. Their quantum computing degree programs range from quantum optics to superconducting quantum circuits to quantum nanophysics. With a large staff of researchers and scientists, this quantum computing university sits right in the middle of the quantum hub in Europe.

18. University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)

The USTC’s Division of Quantum Physics and Quantum Information is a world leader in quantum computing research. Scientists and students at this center focus on fiber-based quantum communication, free-space quantum communication, quantum memory, superconducting quantum computing, quantum simulation, and many other fields. With an electronics shop and over 37 faculty members, the USTC will no doubt continue to be one of the leading quantum computing degree programs.

19. The National University of Singapore (NUS)

The NUS’s Center for Quantum Technologies ( CQT ) focuses on bringing quantum computing students and scientists from around the world together to develop quantum devices. The CQT focuses on quantum research and education as well as quantum technology. Every year, the CQT runs a short-film competition about quantum technology called Quantum Shorts .

20. The University of Sydney

The University of Sydney is a growing location for quantum computing research, partially due to Australia’s first quantum computing conference last year. Research at the University of Sydney ranges from theoretical to experimental, offering a wide range of quantum computing masters and Ph.D. programs for graduate students. The University also works with many different organizations, including the Sydney Quantum Academy.

If you found this article to be informative, make sure to explore more of the current quantum technology news  here . If you would like to explore enterprise end users of quantum in more detail, you should check out our dedicated  market intelligence platform .

If you found this article to be informative, you can explore more current quantum news here , exclusives, interviews, and podcasts.

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Quantum Science & Engineering

Join the quantum revolution at Harvard.

We are witnessing the birth of Quantum Science & Engineering, an event no less significant than the advent of the physics and engineering of electronics at the beginning of the last century. This new discipline demands new approaches to educating the rising generations of researchers who will require deep knowledge of science and engineering principles.

The quantum world of very small things has only recently been amenable to full control and this, in turn, has led to an explosion in potential applications, from new approaches to computation and communication, to more rapid drug discovery, and new sensors with unprecedented precision and resolution. We are at the frontier of the development of fully engineered quantum systems, starting from physical phenomena exhibited by quantum materials, integrating devices and systems subject to quantum architectures, and transforming the way in which we acquire, communicate, and process information.

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Designed for students who want to develop the capacity to perform – and lead – independent research in the field, the Ph.D. program typically takes five to six years. The coursework is followed by several years of research under the supervision of a faculty advisor culminating in a Ph.D. dissertation. Students enrolled in the Ph.D. program typically receive a tuition waiver and a stipend that covers their living expenses for the duration of their course of study. Part-time participation in the Ph.D. program is rare, though not impossible, because the research typically requires full-time effort. 

Getting the Degree

The QSE Ph.D. degree requires a minimum of 41 credits. The course sequence for each of the tracks is shown in the table below.

• Quantum Nanotechnology  (required courses in black and green )
• Quantum Theory  (required courses in black and orange )
• Quantum Algorithms and Computation  (required courses in blue and black)

The information presented in this table is also contained below in text-only format.

Ph.D. Course Credit Requirements Table

Course requirements.

All students will take three common required courses in their  first semester :

Introduction to Quantum Computation and Quantum Information (3 credits)

Engineering the Quantum Revolution (3 credits)

• Professional Communication in Quantum Science and Engineering (1 credit)

Students in the Quantum Nanotechnology or Quantum Theory tracks will typically take Applied Quantum Mechanics (3 credits) in the fall semester. Students in either of these tracks who have already taken coursework on quantum mechanics may take an elective in lieu of Applied Quantum Mechanics in the fall and take Quantum Mechanics 1 (PHYS811) in the spring instead. Students wishing to exercise this option should contact the graduate program director. Students following the Quantum Algorithms and Computation track will take, in the fall semester, one 3-credit course from the following options: Algorithm Design and Analysis (CISC621), Introduction to Machine Learning (CISC684), Elements of the Theory of Computation (CISC601), Advanced Topics in Algorithms and Complexity Theory (CISC830), Computational Methods for Equation Solving and Function Minimization (MATH612).

In the  second semester  of their first year, students following the Quantum Nanotechnology track will take:

• Experimental Techniques for Quantum Systems (3 credits)
• Semiconductor Device Design and Fabrication (3 credits)
• Intro. to Quantum Hardware (QSEG810, 3 credits)

In the  second semester  of their first year, students following the Quantum Theory track will take

Advanced Topics in Quantum Information (3 credits)

In the  second semester  of their first year, students following the Quantum Algorithms and Computation track will take

An elective of their choice (3 credits)

Quantum Algorithms (QSEG820, 3 credits)

In their  third semester , all students will take two elective courses (3 credits each) and research.

In summary, Ph.D.  Quantum Nanotechnology track  students take 20 credits of core requirements, 6 credits of elective courses, 6 research credits and 9 dissertation credits. Ph.D.  Quantum Theory track  students will take 17 credits of core requirements, 9 credits of elective courses, 6 research credits and 9 dissertation credits. Ph.D.  Quantum Algorithms and Computation track  students take 17 credits of core requirements, 9 credits of elective courses, 6 research credits and 9 dissertation credits. Students are welcome and encouraged to do an internship during the summer after their first year. Students participating in internships may register for and receive internship course credit (QSE864), but such credits do not count toward the total number of credits required for the degree. 

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The graduate program in Quantum Science and Engineering accepts applications only for the PhD degree. Although graduate students can earn a continuing AM (Master of Arts) degree along the way to completing their PhDs, the program does not accept applications specifically for terminal AM degrees.

The objective of the Quantum Science and Engineering program is to prepare investigators with diverse backgrounds for research careers in which the concepts and methods of quantum mechanics are applied to innovative science and practical, useful platforms for quantum sensing, simulation, and computation. This objective will be met through a set of core courses and individually designed paths involving additional elective courses in physics, chemistry, and the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), research group rotations, qualifying examinations, independent research, and thesis writing.

Although no two PhD students follow precisely the same path, students should keep in mind the following general timeline.

Student Advisory Committee

The Student Advisory Committee (SAC) will oversee the advising process for all students. This will include creating the student’s Individual Advisory Committee (IAC), helping to create and approve the student’s Thesis Advisory Committee (TAC) and assessing and developing the student advising programs for all QSE students.

Individual Advisory Committee

The SAC assigns each incoming graduate student a three-person IAC before they have identified a particular thesis advisor. The committee will meet on a regular basis as needed with the student to provide advice and guidance on curricular issues, professional development, and discussion of norms and expectations. One of the committee members will be the student’s academic advisor (see below). The role of the committee will also include advice and guidance on research and matching of the student with a particular research group.

Academic Advisor 

One member of the IAC will be assigned as the student’s academic advisor. They will help the student understand the courses available, degree requirements, and advise on the selection of research group rotations. Students and academic advisors are required to have a one-hour meeting every semester but are expected to meet monthly, at least briefly, until the TAC is formed (see below). In planning a program, students should study the catalog of Courses of Instruction offered by the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and SEAS, as well as the description in the Programs of Study. After drawing up a tentative program, students should discuss it with their faculty advisors. Students are also welcome to discuss their plans at any time with the directors of graduate studies. 

Thesis Advisor

After the first year and laboratory rotations successfully completed, a student will select a thesis advisor who will then take on the remaining responsibilities of the academic advisor and direct the student’s doctoral research. The thesis advisor must be a QSE Core Faculty Member or in a related department (physics, computer science, electrical engineering, materials science and engineering, chemistry and chemical biology, or mathematics). Sometimes students may wish to do a substantial portion of their thesis research under the supervision of someone who is not a faculty member in a quantum science and engineering field. Such an arrangement must have the approval of both the student’s academic advisor and the Standing Committee on Higher Degrees in Quantum Science and Engineering (SCHDQSE). 

A few students may wish to design their own thesis projects, taking advantage of the interdisciplinary nature of QSE. These students will need to propose a research plan to their potential academic advisor(s). The academic advisor(s) will consult with the SCHDQSE as to the viability of the plan. For these students, the academic advisor(s) will serve on the student’s TAC. 

Thesis Advisory Committee

In consultation with their thesis advisor or academic advisor, each student will nominate to the Student Advisory Committee (SAC) a Thesis Advisory Committee (TAC) to oversee the progress of their research. In most cases, this will be done by the beginning of the student’s third year. The membership of the TAC will be approved by the SAC. At the same time, the student’s proposed program of research will be reviewed and approved in writing by the TAC. The TAC will meet with the student at least once per year to review progress and offer advice. The TAC will normally have three faculty members, two of whom are program members. 

Program of Study (Credit and Course Requirements)

Each student is required to accumulate a total of 16 four-credit courses of credit, which can include any combination of 200- or 300-level Harvard courses in quantum science and engineering and related fields, graduate-level courses taken by official cross-registration at MIT, and units of reading and/or research time courses (300-level). 

In fulfilling this requirement, students must obtain grades of B- or better in nine four-credit courses specified as follows:

• Mandatory   core courses:  Four four-credit courses: (1) Foundations of Quantum Mechanics; (2) Quantum Optics; (3) Introduction to Quantum Information Science; and (4) Applied Quantum Systems.
• Focus courses:  Two four-credit courses drawn from the  QSE Program's official list. These courses would be fundamental to the student’s sub-area of research.
• Field courses: Three required four-credit courses, drawn from the QSE related departments list of graduate courses, with at least one outside the student’s area of specialization.

Note: Not all courses listed are given every year, and course offerings, numbers, and contents sometimes change. Therefore, students should confer with their advisors or with the chairs of the SCHDQSE about their program of study. Note also that the award of the continuing AM degree does not automatically qualify the student as a candidate for the PhD. Course descriptions can be found on the registrar’s website . 

Other fields courses and petitions to waive certain course requirements:  With the approval of the SCHDQSE, a student may use 200-level courses or fields not officially listed for their focus courses. Upon entering the program, students may petition SCHDQSE to use courses previously taken (before arriving at Harvard) to meet certain course requirements. Students will submit, along with the petition, evidence of satisfactory course performance. 

The general requirements outlined above are a minimum standard and students will usually take additional courses in their selected fields as well as in others. A student need not fulfill all course requirements before beginning research.

As a result of an exchange agreement between the universities, graduate students in QSE at Harvard may also enroll in lecture courses at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The procedure is outlined under Cross-Registration .

Research Group Rotations

Each QSE PhD candidate is required to complete a minimum of two laboratory rotations. The two rotations are expected to be adequately distinct and ideally be in both science and engineering to gain firsthand exposure to new techniques and questions. Lab rotations are considered equivalent to course requirements and therefore must be done before a student can take their qualifying oral exam (see below). Students will submit their lab rotation application before starting their second rotation and no later than February 1 of their first year of study for review by SCHDQSE. More details on lab rotations can be found on this program page .  

In addition to research assistantships (RAs), teaching fellowships (TFs) are important sources of support for graduate students after their first year. Because of the importance of teaching skills for a successful quantum science and engineering career, a one-term TF is required of all graduate students, generally within the first three years of study. This teaching experience provides an opportunity for students to develop the communication skills that are vital for careers in academics and industry.

To fulfill the teaching requirement, students must serve as a teaching fellow at least one fall or spring term for at least 15 hours per week (3/8-time). The TF position should involve a teaching component and not merely grading.

There is no formal language requirement for the PhD in QSE. 

Qualifying Oral Examination

Each student is also expected to pass an oral examination given by the student's Qualifying Exam Committee (QEC) (see below), ideally by the end of the fourth term in residence. This oral exam will emphasize general knowledge, reasoning, the ability to formulate a research plan, and the ability to engage in high-level scientific discourse. The purpose of the examination is two-fold: The examination aids in estimating the candidate’s potential for performing research at a level required for the doctoral thesis, and serves as a diagnostic tool for determining whether the candidate requires changes to the program of research and study.

For the examination, each student is asked to select, prepare, and discuss in depth a topic in their specialization field, and to answer questions from the faculty committee about that specific topic and, more broadly, about the student’s larger subfield. Originality is welcomed but not required.

The student selects the topic—preferably but not necessarily related to the proposed field of thesis research—and then submits a title and abstract together with a list of completed course requirements (described above under Program of Study). The student then confers in detail with their thesis advisor about the topic to be discussed and concrete expectations for the examination. The QEC provides approval of the topic. To ensure adequate preparation, this conference should take place at the earliest possible date, typically one to two months before the examination.

Oral examinations are evaluated on the knowledge and understanding students demonstrate about their chosen topic as well as about their general subfield. Students are also judged on the clarity and organization of their expositions. The examining committee may take into account other information about the candidate’s performance as a graduate student. The student will pass the examination if the committee believes that the student has demonstrated adequate comprehension of the chosen topic and the larger field, as well as an ability to perform the thesis research required for the doctoral degree. Students who do not pass the qualifying oral examination on their first attempt will be given instructions for improvement and encouraged by the committee to take a second examination at a later date.

Qualifying Exam Committee

Each student will have an individual Qualifying Exam Committee, the membership of which will be approved by the SCHDQSE. The committee is responsible for developing and administering the qualifying examination and for making pass/fail recommendations to the SCHDQSE. Normally, the Qualifying Exam Committee would have three faculty members, one of whom is the student’s prospective thesis advisor. If the student’s immediate research advisor is from outside of Harvard, that person would constitute a fourth member of the committee. The committee should include two members who are QSE program members, with one person outside the specific type of research focus (e.g. for an experimentalist, there would be one theorist on the committee).

The SCHDQSE may, upon petition, grant a deferment of the examination for up to one year. Students who have not passed their oral examinations by the end of their third year of graduate study must seek approval from the SCHDQSE prior to being allowed to register for a fourth year of graduate study. If satisfactory arrangements cannot be made, the student will be withdrawn from the program.

Year Three and Beyond

In order to become acquainted with the various programs of research in progress and promising areas for thesis research, students should attend seminars and colloquia, and consult with their faculty advisors and upper-level graduate students. A list of the current faculty and their research programs is available  online .

The QSE program will have an annual retreat. The purpose of the retreat is to bring the entire QSE community together to learn about research progress in QSE both at Harvard and elsewhere. Since the retreat is a major program occasion, all students and program faculty will be expected to attend, and advanced students will be expected to present (orally or through a poster) their thesis research to date.

At least yearly, all students are required to give a short talk about their research at one of the QSE-related gatherings, such as the Joint Quantum Seminar, in front of the invited speaker.

Academic Residence

Ordinarily, a candidate must be enrolled and in residence for at least two years (four terms) of full-time study in the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Ideally, the PhD is completed within six and a half years. The student’s TAC reviews the student's progress each year. For financial residence requirements, see Financial Aid .

Criteria for Satisfactory Progress

In addition to the policies specified by Harvard Griffin GSAS, the QSE program identifies satisfactory progress for graduate students by several key criteria.

The student is expected to identify a potential thesis advisor before taking the qualifying exam. The student must be formally accepted by an appropriate thesis advisor and arrange for the appointment of the TAC within six months of passing the qualifying oral examination.

During each subsequent year, the student must submit a progress report in the form specified by the SCHDQSE. The progress report must be approved by the student’s TAC who will evaluate the student’s progress toward the completion of the degree. 

For other types of extensions or leave-of-absence policies, consult the Registration section of Policies.

Dissertation Defense

Following the qualifying exam, the student should arrange a TAC, which consists of at least three faculty members and is chaired by a member of the QSE program (see above). At least two members of the TAC, including the chair, must be members of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) or the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). A non-FAS or a non-SEAS thesis advisor should be a member of the dissertation committee but cannot serve as its official chair.

The dissertation defense consists of an oral final examination delivered to the TAC that involves a searching analysis of the student’s thesis. If the student’s coursework does not indicate a wide proficiency in the field of the thesis, the examination may be extended to test this proficiency as well.

The candidate must provide draft copies of the completed thesis for members of the dissertation committee at least three weeks in advance of the examination. The program requires one bound copy of the final thesis, which students can order through the online dissertation submission system. See the Dissertation section of Policies for detailed requirements.

Contact Info 

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What is a PhD in quantum physics like at university?

Dive into the captivating world of quantum physics and embark on an exhilarating journey of discovery, innovation, and collaboration. Join PhD students as they unlock the secrets of the quantum realm and explore its diverse applications, from quantum computing and cryptography to quantum materials science

With a PhD in quantum physics, the possibilities are seemingly endless, and the impact on our understanding of the universe and its underlying principles is immense. 

Keep reading to explore the life of a quantum physics PhD student and the incredible opportunities that await.

What does a PhD student in Quantum Physics do in the lab?

A PhD student in Quantum Physics embarks on a thrilling journey to unravel the mysteries of the quantum world. Their days are filled with engaging research, aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of nature’s fundamental principles at the quantum level.

From developing and testing theoretical models to experimenting with cutting-edge techniques, these graduate students are at the forefront of advancing this captivating field.

Here’s a table outlining the key activities of a PhD student doing a quantum physics PhD based on my conversation with a current PhD student:

Inside the university laboratories, PhD students work diligently on quantum information projects, studying how quantum mechanics can revolutionize the way we process and transmit data.

As emerging quantum engineers, they contribute to the development of quantum computers, which promise to solve problems that are currently insurmountable for classical systems.

Their pursuit of knowledge doesn’t end in the lab. PhD students often collaborate with other researchers, attend conferences, and present their findings to the scientific community.

In addition to research, many quantum physics PhD students take on teaching and mentoring roles.

They share their expertise with others, fostering a passion for science in future generations. This teaching experience complements their research endeavours and helps them become well-rounded professionals.

Ultimately, the goal of a PhD student in Quantum Physics is to become an expert in their chosen subfield and contribute novel research findings that expand our understanding of the quantum realm. As they graduate, they may pursue careers as professors, researchers, consultants, or entrepreneurs in various fields related to quantum physics, such as quantum computing, cryptography, and quantum materials science.

Different types of Quantum Physics PhDs in a faculty

Quantum physics is a fascinating and rapidly evolving field, with numerous PhD programs catering to various interests and goals. Some prominent areas of focus within these PhD programs include:

• quantum mechanics,
• quantum information science, and
• quantum optics.

Quantum mechanics is the foundation of quantum physics, and a PhD in quantum mechanics delves deep into the theoretical aspects of the subject.

For example, a PhD candidate might study quantum entanglement or the dynamics of quantum systems at the atomic level.

In contrast, a PhD in quantum information science combines quantum theory with computer science and information technology.

Quantum optics, another popular area of research, investigate the behavior of light and matter at the quantum level.

This area has applications in laser technology, spectroscopy, and nanophotonics.

Researchers in this field often collaborate with experts in quantum materials and experimental physics to develop new photonic devices.

Admission to these PhD programs is competitive, and applicants typically have strong backgrounds in physics, mathematics, or chemistry. Coursework in these programs covers core quantum topics, and students have the opportunity to collaborate with industry partners and other researchers worldwide.

Pursuing a PhD in quantum physics offers an exciting opportunity to delve into the mysteries of the universe, from the atomic scale to cosmic phenomena. These programs, whether theoretical or applied, prepare students to become leaders in the field, pushing the boundaries of conventional scientific knowledge.

How to get a PhD in quantum physics – the requirements

To begin, aspiring quantum physicists must first earn a bachelor’s degree in physics or a related discipline. Next, they should apply to a reputable institution that offers a specialized PhD program in quantum physics.

Getting into the degree often requires an exam and here are the sorts of questions you can find in the quantum mechanics section:

• Probability calculation for an H3 atom in its ground state after decay.
• Commutation relation involving raising and lowering operators for a harmonic oscillator potential.
• Normalized wave functions for two identical non-interacting spin-1/2 particles in a one-dimensional harmonic oscillator potential.
• Consideration of fermions and their anti-symmetric wave functions.

During their PhD program, students will tackle advanced courses in mathematics, physics, and quantum mechanics while engaging in research under the guidance of an experienced faculty advisor.

The culmination of their studies is the development and defense of a dissertation.

Keeping up with the latest research and attending conferences and seminars is crucial for staying informed and building a strong professional network.

Networking and collaboration can be pivotal in successfully completing a PhD program in quantum physics, which typically takes 4-6 years .

Although the job market for quantum physicists can be highly competitive, the opportunities it offers in research and development make the effort worthwhile for those who are truly dedicated to the field.

What can you do with a PhD in quantum science?

A PhD in quantum physics opens up an array of exciting and influential career opportunities. In academia, you can pursue a position as a postdoctoral researcher or professor, teaching and conducting pioneering research in areas like quantum mechanics and quantum field theory.

Alternatively, you could enter the industry, working for companies that develop groundbreaking technologies based on quantum principles, such as quantum computers and quantum sensors.

Another option is working for government agencies or national labs, applying your quantum physics expertise to advance national security, intelligence gathering, or other vital missions.

With a PhD in quantum physics, you could even become an entrepreneur, founding your own company or consulting firm to offer valuable insights and solutions in this rapidly evolving field.

Regardless of the path you choose, a doctorate in quantum physics equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a significant impact in some of today’s most rapidly progressing scientific domains.

Wrapping up

From the cutting-edge research and the daily activities in labs to the diverse subfields of study and potential career paths, a PhD in quantum physics promises a fulfilling and impactful journey.

By immersing themselves in this captivating field, quantum physics PhD students not only deepen our understanding of the universe and its underlying principles but also contribute to the development of innovative technologies that will shape our future.

With dedication, hard work, and collaboration, these brilliant minds forge new frontiers in the rapidly progressing scientific domains of quantum mechanics, quantum information science, and quantum optics.

So, whether you are an aspiring quantum physicist or simply curious about this fascinating area of study, remember that the journey through the quantum realm is filled with challenges, breakthroughs, and uncharted territory, promising a thrilling adventure for those brave enough to embrace it.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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How to Apply

PhD in Molecular Engineering

PhD in Quantum Science and Engineering

Degree Requirements

Financial Aid & Fellowships

Applications are now closed for the PhD in Quantum Science and Engineering program for the 2025-26 academic year. Request more information below.

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For general inquiries about the PhD program, questions on financial aid, or to schedule a visit to PME, please contact  [email protected]

David Taylor Dean of Students [email protected] Phone: 773.834.2057

We consider all applicants for the full-time PhD program who meet the following requirements:

• A bachelor's degree (usually with a major in a STEM field)
• Fulfill the English-language requirements of the University of Chicago (required for non-native English speakers only)
• If you are applying to the PhD in Quantum Science and Engineering, or to the PhD in Molecular Engineering and have selected Quantum as your primary research area, you may submit a GRE Subject Test score in Physics, Mathematics, or Chemistry if you feel that its submission will help us evaluate your application. This is an optional requirement. Do not take the GRE general test; none of our programs accept or will review the GRE general test.

Application process

To apply, submit an application online . You must include:

• An academic readiness, research, and interest statement
• A personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation
• Transcript(s) from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended
• TOEFL test results that meet the requirements of the University of Chicago (required for non-native English speakers only)
• A $90 nonrefundable application fee

Use the University of Chicago's institution code (1832) to send TOEFL scores. A separate department code is not required.

Explore UChicagoGRAD  for more information about the application process, including answers to frequently asked questions and details about campus life.

Application deadline

We begin accepting applications in September for enrollment in the PhD program that starts the following fall. Applications are now closed for the 2025-26 academic year.

When you start your online application, choose the regular application for the year you plan to enroll. For example, select “2023 Regular” to apply for the PhD program beginning in autumn 2023.

Application decision release

Pritzker Molecular Engineering releases PhD admissions decisions by thematic research area. PhD applications to Molecular Engineering considered by Materials Systems for Sustainability and Health can generally expect to receive notification of their status before mid-January. Applications considered by Immunoengineering can generally expect to receive a notification of the status by mid-January. Applications considered by the Quantum Science and Engineering PhD program can generally expect to receive a notification of their status by mid- to late-January.

Application fee waivers

All applicants meeting the following criteria and providing appropriate supporting documentation will be considered for a fee waiver:

• Past/current participants with the Peace Corps, Teach for America, U.S. military veterans and personnel, and alumni of a variety of academic preparatory and service programs, as detailed in the application instructions.
• Applicants meeting eligibility requirements may also qualify through Big Ten Academic Alliance . BTAA FreeApp recipients must then follow emailed instructions from UChicagoGrad Admissions .

Applicants for admission can request a fee waiver by completing the fee waiver form found on the instructions page of the application for admission. The waiver form requires a concise and complete reason for the request. Current UChicago students seeking a waiver must provide their current student ID number.

Application hardship request policy

Applicants for whom a recent disaster or other, major widespread disruption (such as COVID-19) has impacted their ability to complete their application should view the University Hardship Request policy and if necessary submit a formal request. Further instructions and a link to the request form can be found on the instructions page of the application for admission.