Useful links
Unit of study_
OLET2610: Foundations of Quantum Computing
2025 unit information
What is quantum computing and how does it work? What are the different types of quantum computers? What are the advantages and disadvantages of quantum computing? What are the challenges of developing and using quantum computers? How will quantum computing impact different industries and societies? These are the questions we will seek to answer. This OLE will provide a general introduction to the research field of quantum computing, covering hardware, software, and potential societal impact. The circuit model of quantum computing and example algorithms will be introduced, then building on this knowledge you will code and execute simple algorithms in a quantum software environment. Emphasis will be given to comparing quantum vs 'classical' performance of key algorithms. For hardware, the research challenges in developing quantum computer technology will be introduced, and you will undertake a critical analysis of specific hardware platforms (advantages and challenges). The potential societal impact of quantum computers, and quantum technologies more broadly, will be surveyed. On completion of this OLE, you will have gained an informed appreciation of this new technology and its potential impact, as well as generic skills that allow for the critical assessment and evaluation of potential new technologies.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Science
| Study level | Undergraduate |
|---|---|
| Academic unit | Physics Academic Operations |
| Credit points | 2 |
|
Prerequisites:
?
|
None |
|---|---|
|
Corequisites:
?
|
None |
| Prohibitions:
?
|
None |
| Assumed knowledge:
?
|
Basic computer literacy, some competency with coding |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. demonstrate an understanding of the difference between quantum and classical computing algorithms
- LO2. demonstrate an understanding of the challenges in developing quantum computing technology
- LO3. analyse the societal and research impact of quantum computers
- LO4. apply quantum computing concepts to create and execute quantum computing algorithms
- LO5. identify specific challenges that exist in various hardware platforms.
Unit availability
This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.
The outline is published 2 weeks before the first day of teaching. You can look at previous outlines for a guide to the details of a unit.
| Session | MoA ? | Location | Outline ? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Intensive February - March 2024
|
Block mode | Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney | |
|
Intensive July - August 2024
|
Block mode | Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney |
| Session | MoA ? | Location | Outline ? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Intensive February - March 2025
|
Block mode | Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney |
Outline unavailable
|
|
Intensive August 2025
|
Block mode | Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney |
Outline unavailable
|
Find your current year census dates
Modes of attendance (MoA)
This refers to the Mode of attendance (MoA) for the unit as it appears when you’re selecting your units in Sydney Student. Find more information about modes of attendance on our website.
