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Quantum Computing

4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Based on 211 ratings
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Richard Wang

Quantum computing is an innovative, transformative technology that has the possibility to revolutionize all fields including machine learning, drug development, finance, logistics, and more. Many companies and universities are devoting resources to the research and development of bigger and better quantum computers. This entry level course aims to ease learners into quantum computing, understanding the basics of how quantum computing works and how it can be applied. We will also cover topics like how quantum computing is different from classical computing, how quantum computers store information, and how quantum computers manipulate that information.

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Quantum computing is an innovative, transformative technology that has the possibility to revolutionize all fields including machine learning, drug development, finance, logistics, and more. Many companies and universities are devoting resources to the research and development of bigger and better quantum computers. This entry level course aims to ease learners into quantum computing, understanding the basics of how quantum computing works and how it can be applied. We will also cover topics like how quantum computing is different from classical computing, how quantum computers store information, and how quantum computers manipulate that information.

There are four learning objectives within the course which revolve around different aspects of quantum computing

  1. Understand the differences between quantum computing and classical computing

  2. Understand the three main phenomena of quantum mechanics used by quantum computing: interference, entanglement, and superposition

  3. Understand the “quantum stack”

  4. Understand some of the applications of quantum computing

There are ten lectures within this course which amount to around one and a half hours of content. These ten lectures in order are:

  • Lecture One: What is Quantum Computing?

  • Lecture Two: The Qubit

  • Lecture Three: Superposition

  • Lecture Four: Single Qubit Quantum Gates

  • Lecture Five: Entanglement

  • Lecture Six: Interference

  • Lecture Seven: Quantum Circuits

  • Lecture Eight: The Quantum Stack

  • Lecture Nine: Quantum Applications

  • Lecture Ten: The Future of Quantum Computing

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What's inside

Syllabus

Understand the differences between quantum computing and classical computing

In this lecture, I cover a quick introduction to quantum computing. After this lecture, students will be able to understand the difference between quantum computing and classical computing, how quantum computers are able to solve problems faster than classical computers, and some of the projected applications of quantum computing.

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Here I introduce the qubit, the basic unit of information in quantum computing. I show how the qubit is represented in bra-ket (dirac) notation and in matrix form. I will also provide a quick review of matrix multiplication, as this will be important for many of the coming lectures. Students will be able to represent qubits in bra-ket notation and matrix form.

Superposition is one of the three quantum mechanical phenomena quantum computers use to gain a quantum advantage. Students will understand what superposition is, how it is represented, how it is created, and how it allows quantum computers to gain a quantum advantage.

Single qubit quantum gates are quantum gates that manipulate the state of a single qubit. This is useful in quantum algorithms as it helps us gain the specific quantum state which will be the solution to the algorithm. Students will be able to understand how the X, Y, Z, and Hadamard gates are used in order to change a quantum state through matrix multiplication.

Entanglement is the second of the three quantum mechanical phenomena quantum computers use to gain a quantum advantage. Students will understand what entanglement is, how it is represented, how it is created, and how it allows quantum computers to gain a quantum advantage.

Interference is the last of the three quantum mechanical phenomena quantum computers use to gain a quantum advantage. Students will understand what interference is, how it is represented, how it is created, and how it allows quantum computers to gain a quantum advantage.

Quantum circuits are simply a series of quantum gates. Quantum algorithms create specific quantum circuits in order to solve certain problems. In this lecture, I cover how a quantum circuit is created, what they look like, and some of the common symbols for quantum gates.

The quantum stack is the system that manipulates your code into what is actually run on the quantum computer. After this lecture, students will understand the different levels of the quantum stack which make the quantum computer run.

Quantum computing is a rapidly developing field, and not every application has been discovered yet. In this lecture, I outline some of the projected applications of quantum computing and why quantum computing has the possibility to revolutionize these industries. I will also cover how some companies are using quantum computers in their industries today.

The future of quantum computing is bright, but it can be daunting at first when diving into such a dynamic and everchanging landscape. Students will understand how to become further involved in quantum computing including the education needed. Additionally, students will understand the current quantum scene, including companies, universities, government, and research.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the potential applications of quantum computing across diverse fields like machine learning, finance, and logistics, offering insights into its transformative impact
Introduces qubits, superposition, entanglement, and quantum gates, which are fundamental concepts for understanding quantum computing at a deeper level
Discusses the current quantum scene, including companies, universities, government, and research, which may help learners understand the landscape and identify potential opportunities
Requires learners to understand matrix multiplication, which may require learners to review linear algebra concepts before or during the course
Covers the quantum stack, which is the system that manipulates code to run on a quantum computer, providing insights into the practical implementation of quantum algorithms

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Reviews summary

Foundational introduction to quantum computing

According to students, this course provides a clear and accessible introduction to the complex field of quantum computing. Learners appreciate the well-structured lectures that break down fundamental concepts like qubits, superposition, entanglement, and interference. Many found it a good starting point for understanding the basics, comparing quantum to classical computing, and grasping the 'quantum stack'. While primarily theoretical, some highlight the glimpse into potential applications. Some reviewers noted that the course primarily focuses on theory and lacks hands-on coding or practical exercises, which may be a limitation for those seeking practical skills. Overall, it serves as a solid beginner-friendly overview.
Successfully explains core quantum phenomena and components.
"The lectures on quantum gates and circuits were particularly helpful."
"Superposition, entanglement, and interference were explained well."
"I finally understood the 'quantum stack' after this course."
"It covers all the fundamental building blocks mentioned in the syllabus."
Ideal for those with no prior knowledge in the field.
"As someone completely new to quantum computing, this course was perfect."
"No prior quantum mechanics knowledge is needed, which was a relief."
"It assumes you are starting from zero, which is great for true beginners."
"An excellent first step into this complex subject."
Content is organized logically and easy to digest.
"The lectures were well-structured, building concepts incrementally."
"Each lecture was concise and focused, making it easy to absorb the information."
"I appreciated the clear progression from qubits to gates and circuits."
"The flow of topics made sense and helped solidify my understanding."
Provides an easy-to-understand overview of quantum concepts.
"This course provided a clear and concise introduction to the basics of quantum computing."
"I found the explanations of complex ideas like superposition and entanglement surprisingly easy to follow."
"It really helped me grasp the fundamental differences between classical and quantum computing."
"A good starting point if you know nothing about the topic."
Primarily covers theory with limited practical or coding labs.
"The course is very theoretical. I wish there were some hands-on coding exercises or labs."
"Great overview, but don't expect to learn how to program quantum computers here."
"It focuses purely on the 'what' and 'why', not the 'how' in terms of implementation."
"Could use more practical examples or demonstrations of quantum circuits."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Quantum Computing with these activities:
Review Linear Algebra
Strengthen your understanding of linear algebra concepts, which are fundamental to representing and manipulating qubits and quantum gates.
Browse courses on Linear Algebra
Show steps
  • Review matrix operations such as addition, multiplication, and transposition.
  • Study vector spaces, linear independence, and basis vectors.
  • Practice solving systems of linear equations.
Explore 'Dancing with Qubits' by Robert S. Sutor
Gain a more intuitive understanding of quantum computing concepts through a less technical approach.
View Dancing with Qubits on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the introductory chapters on the basics of quantum mechanics and quantum computing.
  • Explore the chapters on quantum algorithms and their applications.
  • Consider the ethical and societal implications of quantum computing discussed in the book.
Read 'Quantum Computation and Quantum Information' by Nielsen and Chuang
Gain a deeper understanding of quantum computing principles and algorithms through a comprehensive textbook.
View Quantum Computation and Quantum Information on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the introductory chapters on quantum mechanics and linear algebra.
  • Study the chapters on quantum gates and quantum circuits.
  • Explore the chapters on specific quantum algorithms like Shor's and Grover's algorithms.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Qubit State Manipulation Exercises
Reinforce your understanding of qubit representation and quantum gates through hands-on exercises.
Show steps
  • Practice representing qubits in bra-ket notation and matrix form.
  • Perform matrix multiplication to simulate the effect of quantum gates on qubit states.
  • Solve problems involving superposition and entanglement.
Follow Qiskit Tutorials
Develop practical skills in quantum programming using IBM's Qiskit SDK.
Show steps
  • Install Qiskit and set up a quantum computing environment.
  • Work through the Qiskit tutorials on quantum circuits and algorithms.
  • Experiment with running quantum circuits on simulators and real quantum hardware.
Build a Simple Quantum Random Number Generator
Apply your knowledge to create a practical quantum application.
Show steps
  • Design a quantum circuit that generates random numbers using superposition.
  • Implement the circuit using a quantum programming framework like Qiskit or Cirq.
  • Test the random number generator and analyze its statistical properties.
Write a Blog Post on Quantum Computing Applications
Solidify your understanding by explaining quantum computing applications to a broader audience.
Show steps
  • Research different applications of quantum computing in fields like medicine, finance, and materials science.
  • Write a blog post explaining these applications in a clear and accessible way.
  • Publish your blog post on a platform like Medium or your personal website.

Career center

Learners who complete Quantum Computing will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Quantum Algorithm Designer
A quantum algorithm designer focuses on creating new algorithms specifically tailored to run on quantum computers. This role demands a strong understanding of quantum mechanics and computer science to leverage the unique capabilities of quantum systems. This course helps build a foundation in the core concepts needed to understand how to design algorithms for quantum computers. The lectures on superposition, entanglement, interference, and quantum circuits are the most relevant. Furthermore, the overview of existing and potential applications of quantum computing is useful for identifying problems suitable for quantum algorithmic solutions. This course is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in becoming a quantum algorithm designer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quantum Algorithm Designer
Quantum Software Developer
A quantum software developer designs, develops, and tests software for quantum computers. This involves translating theoretical quantum algorithms into practical code that can be executed on quantum hardware. This course helps build a foundation in the fundamental principles of quantum computing, including the differences between quantum and classical computing, the concepts of superposition, entanglement, and interference, and the quantum stack. By understanding these concepts, prospective quantum Software Developers can better grasp the challenges and opportunities in quantum software development. The lectures on quantum circuits and single qubit quantum gates will be especially useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quantum Software Developer
Quantum Computing Journalist
Quantum computing journalists share the latest news and trends on quantum computing to the broader public. This requires a solid understanding of quantum mechanics and the ability to explain complex ideas in an accessible way. This course may be particularly helpful as it provides a solid foundation in the key concepts of quantum computing, including the differences between classical and quantum computing, superposition, entanglement, interference, and the quantum stack. For quantum computing journalists, these basics are crucial for writing insightful and meaningful news pieces that are both interesting and accurate.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quantum Computing Journalist
Quantum Data Scientist
A quantum data scientist explores how quantum computing can enhance data analysis and machine learning techniques. This involves developing quantum machine learning algorithms, optimizing quantum data processing pipelines, and applying quantum computing to solve complex data-related problems. Knowing the differences between classical and quantum computing, the quantum stack, and some of the most promising applications within quantum computing is most helpful to you. This course helps build a foundation in the core concepts of quantum computing, enabling quantum data scientists to leverage the unique capabilities of quantum systems for data analysis. For those looking at the intersection of data science and quantum computing, this course is a great tool.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quantum Data Scientist
Quantum Computing Consultant
A quantum computing consultant advises organizations on how they can leverage quantum computing to solve their business problems. This involves assessing the feasibility of quantum solutions, developing implementation strategies, and guiding organizations through the complexities of adopting quantum technologies. This course helps build a foundation in the principles of quantum computing, enabling consultants to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Understanding quantum computing fundamentals allows the consultant to assess the potential of quantum computing across various industries. The lecture on the future of quantum computing may give a consultant an edge. This course serves as a valuable introduction for aspiring quantum computing consultants.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quantum Computing Consultant
Quantum Educator
A quantum educator teaches quantum computing concepts to students, professionals, or the general public. This requires a solid understanding of quantum mechanics and the ability to explain complex ideas in an accessible way. This course helps build a foundation in the fundamentals of quantum computing, including the differences between classical and quantum computing, quantum phenomena, and the quantum stack. By mastering these concepts, quantum educators can effectively convey the core principles of quantum computing to others. The overview of applications and the future of quantum computing is also useful for providing context and motivation to learners. If you wish to be a quantum educator, this course may be the right one for you.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quantum Educator
Quantum Research Scientist
A quantum research scientist explores the theoretical and experimental aspects of quantum computing, pushing the boundaries of current knowledge. They may work on developing new quantum algorithms, improving quantum hardware, or investigating the fundamental properties of quantum systems. This course may be particularly helpful as it provides a solid foundation in the key concepts of quantum computing, including the differences between classical and quantum computing, superposition, entanglement, interference, and the quantum stack. For a quantum research scientist, understanding these fundamentals is crucial for conducting meaningful research. The course's exploration of current and future applications provides context for research directions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quantum Research Scientist
Quantum Hardware Engineer
A quantum hardware engineer designs, builds, and tests the physical components of quantum computers. This may involve working with superconducting circuits, trapped ions, or other quantum technologies. Quantum hardware engineers work to improve the stability, coherence, and scalability of quantum hardware. This course may be useful in so far as it provides a fundamental understanding of the concepts that underpin quantum computing, such as qubits, superposition, entanglement, and quantum gates. The discussion of the 'quantum stack' is also helpful. Although this course doesn't delve into the specific engineering challenges, it helps to contextualize the role of a quantum hardware engineer within the broader field. Those pursuing a role as a quantum hardware engineer may find that this course gives them a good introduction.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quantum Hardware Engineer
Computational Physicist
A computational physicist uses computational methods to solve problems in physics. This could involve simulating physical systems, analyzing experimental data, or developing new theoretical models. Quantum computing offers new methods in tackling physics problems and having awareness of the field is important. This course helps build a foundation in the core concepts of quantum computing, including the differences between classical and quantum computing, superposition, entanglement, and interference. This background allows computational physicists to leverage quantum algorithms and techniques in their research. The course's exploration of quantum applications provides insight into potential areas where quantum computing can impact physics research.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computational Physicist
Cryptography Expert
A cryptography expert understands techniques for secure communication in the presence of adversaries, and quantum computing can be used to break existing cryptographic methods. This course helps cryptography experts be well informed about the field. By understanding the foundations of quantum computing, it makes you more insightful in discovering and implementing post quantum cryptographic methods. This course helps build expertise in the key concepts of quantum computing, including the differences between classical and quantum computing and quantum phenomena. Those looking to be cryptography experts that are informed about quantum computers may find this course useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cryptography Expert
Drug Discovery Scientist
A drug discovery scientist researches and develops new pharmaceutical drugs. Quantum computing can accelerate the drug discovery process by improving molecular modeling, simulating drug interactions, and identifying potential drug candidates. This course may be useful as it provides an overview of quantum computing, including the differences between classical and quantum computing, quantum mechanical principles, and potential applications. Drug discovery scientists can then explore how quantum computing might be applied to solve complex problems in drug discovery. The course's exploration of applications would be the most useful to you.
See salaries and explore the career path for Drug Discovery Scientist
Machine Learning Engineer
A machine learning engineer develops and implements machine learning models and algorithms. This requires a strong understanding of statistical modeling, data structures, and software engineering. This course helps build a foundation into the intersection of quantum computing and machine learning. Many companies are devoting resources to the research and development of quantum machine learning algorithms. Lectures on quantum circuits and quantum applications may be relevant for staying up to date on the latest advancements and applications of quantum machine learning. Aspiring machine learning engineers who wish to learn about quantum computing may find this course enlightening.
See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer
Supply Chain Analyst
A supply chain analyst optimizes the flow of goods, information, and finances across a supply chain. Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize supply chain optimization through improved logistics, inventory management, and demand forecasting. This course may be useful as it provides an overview of quantum computing, including the differences between classical and quantum computing, quantum mechanical principles, and potential applications. Supply chain analysts can then assess the potential of quantum computing to solve complex supply chain problems. The course's exploration of applications would be the most useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Supply Chain Analyst
Financial Analyst
A financial analyst analyzes financial data, provides investment recommendations, and manages financial risk. Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize financial modeling and risk management. This course may be useful as it provides an overview of quantum computing, including the differences between classical and quantum computing, quantum mechanical principles, and potential applications. Financial analysts can then assess the potential of quantum computing to solve complex financial problems. The course's exploration of applications may be particularly valuable for identifying opportunities to leverage quantum computing in the finance industry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Aerospace Engineer
An aerospace engineer designs, develops, and tests aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. Quantum computing has the potential to impact the aerospace industry through improved materials design, optimization of flight paths, and enhanced sensor technology. This course may be useful as it provides an overview of quantum computing, including the differences between classical and quantum computing, quantum mechanical principles, and potential applications. Aerospace engineers can then explore how quantum computing might be applied to solve complex aerospace engineering problems. Those who are aerospace engineers may find the lecture on quantum computing applications the most relevant.
See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Quantum Computing.
Cover image
Quantum Computation and Quantum Information
Save
Is considered the standard textbook for quantum computing. It provides a comprehensive and rigorous introduction to the field, covering everything from the basics of quantum mechanics to advanced quantum algorithms. While it may be more valuable as additional reading for this introductory course, it serves as an excellent reference for deeper understanding. It is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions.
Quantum Computation and Quantum Information
Paperback
Check
Quantum Computation and Quantum Information
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Dancing with Qubits
Save
Provides a more accessible and intuitive introduction to quantum computing compared to more technical texts. It focuses on explaining the concepts behind quantum computing in a way that is understandable to a broader audience, including those without a strong background in physics or mathematics. It is particularly useful for gaining a conceptual understanding of the field and exploring its potential applications. This book adds breadth to the existing course.
Dancing with Qubits
Paperback
Check
Dancing with Qubits
Kindle Edition
Check

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Rating
4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
1.5 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Richard Wang
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the potential applications of quantum computing across diverse fields like machine learning, finance, and logistics, offering insights into its transformative impact
Introduces qubits, superposition, entanglement, and quantum gates, which are fundamental concepts for understanding quantum computing at a deeper level
Discusses the current quantum scene, including companies, universities, government, and research, which may help learners understand the landscape and identify potential opportunities
Requires learners to understand matrix multiplication, which may require learners to review linear algebra concepts before or during the course
Covers the quantum stack, which is the system that manipulates code to run on a quantum computer, providing insights into the practical implementation of quantum algorithms
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