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The Quantum Technologies MSc will take students to the cutting-edge of research in the emerging area of quantum technologies, giving them not only an advanced training in the relevant physics but also the chance to acquire key skills in the engineering and information sciences.
Key information
Programme starts
September 2021
Modes and duration
One year programme which is also available part-time over two years.
Application dates
Tuition fees (2021/22)
Note on fees:
The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees. Fees for flexible, modular study are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session.
Entry requirements
A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in physics, engineering, mathematics, computer science or a related subject, with evidence of familiarity with basic quantum mechanics.
English language requirements
If your education has not been conducted in the English language, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.
The English language level for this programme is: Standard
UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level. International Preparation Courses
Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.
International students
Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website.
International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below.
Select your country:
About this degree
Students learn the language and techniques of advanced quantum mechanics, quantum information and quantum computation, as well as state-of-the-art implementation with condensed matter and quantum optical systems.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of two compulsory core modules (30 credits), four optional modules (60 credits) and a research project (90 credits).
Upon successful completion of 180 credits, you will be awarded a MSc in Quantum Technologies.
Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change.
Compulsory modules
All students take the following compulsory core modules:
- Advanced Quantum Theory
- Quantum Computation and Communication
Optional modules
Students choose one optional module from any of the Physics MSc degrees as well as three of the following optional modules:
- Advanced Photonic Devices
- Nanoscale Processing and Characterisation for Advanced Devices
- Optical Transmission and Networks
- Order and Excitations in Condensed Matter
- Physics and Optics of Nano-Structures
- Research Computing with C++
- Research Software Engineering with Python
Research project and case studies
The MSc programme culminates in the quantum technologies project and attached case studies. All students undertake two case studies related to quantum technologies as well as an independent research project (experimental or theoretical), which will be the subject of a presentation and a dissertation of 10,000-15,000 words. Research-active supervisors will provide topics which will enable the students to make contributions to research in the field.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars, with self-study on two modules devoted to the critical assessment of current research topics and the corresponding research skills. Assessment is through a combination of problem sheets, written examinations, case study reports and presentations, as well as the MSc project dissertation.
Additional costs
For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs.
Accessibility
Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk. Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support & Wellbeing team.
Funding
For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website.
Careers
The programme prepares graduates for careers in the emerging quantum technology industries which play an increasingly important role in: secure communication; sensing and metrology; the simulation of other quantum systems; and ultimately in general-purpose quantum computation. Graduates will also be well prepared for research at the highest level in the numerous groups now developing quantum technologies and for work in government laboratories.
Employability
Graduates will possess the skills needed to work in the emerging quantum industries as they develop in response to technological advances.
Why study this degree at UCL?
UCL offers one of the leading research programmes in quantum technologies anywhere in the world, as well as outstanding taught programmes in the subjects contributing to the field (including physics, computer science, and engineering). It also hosts the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Delivering Quantum Technologies.
The programme provides a rigorous grounding across the disciplines underlying quantum technologies, as well as the chance to work with some of the world's leading groups in research projects. The new Quantum Science and Technology Institute ('UCLQ') provides an umbrella where all those working in the field can meet and share ideas, including regular seminars, networking events and opportunities to interact with commercial and government partners.
Department: Physics & Astronomy
Application and next steps
Applications
Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.
This programme requires two references. Further information regarding references can be found in our How to apply section.
There is an application processing fee for this programme of £90 for online applications and £115 for paper applications. Further information can be found at: ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/graduate/taught/application.
Who can apply?
Applicants have typically taken coursework which covers the pre-requisite topics listed in the Advanced Quantum Theory course.
Sometimes students from non-physics backgrounds (computer science, engineering, mathematics) who have done very well in their course, are able to demonstrate proficiency in quantum theory in other ways, in which case this should be documented.
Application deadlines
- All applicants
- 31 May 2021
For more information see our Applications page.
Apply nowWhat are we looking for?
When we access your application we would like to learn:
- why you want to study Quantum Technologies at graduate level
- why you want to study Quantum Technologies at UCL
- what particularly attracts you to the chosen programme
- how your academic and professional background meets the demands of this challenging programme
- where you would like to go professionally with your degree
Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to illustrate whether your reasons for applying to this programme match what the programme will deliver. Applicants who have a portfolio are strongly recommended to submit it when they apply.
UCL is regulated by the Office for Students.
Page last modified on 28 August 2021
