Quantum Information Science and Engineering

Master of Science (M.S.)

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Change the future of technology with an M.S. in quantum engineering

Push the boundaries of computing with UW’s most innovative degree. The master’s in quantum information science and engineering (QISE) prepares grads to work in emerging technology while completing cutting-edge research and internships.

As a student, you’ll have access to prestigious research grants from top national laboratories, IBM quantum computers and exciting coursework. Ready to take the next step? Apply today!

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This program is currently offered in
the following locations:

Laramie Campus

About the M.S. in Quantum Engineering & Information Science

Our master’s in quantum engineering is a cutting-edge program that provides students with innovative coursework, internship opportunities and on-campus involvement.

Students also have the opportunity to work alongside renowned faculty to complete research on externally funded grants from national laboratories, national agencies and private companies, including the NSF, DOE, DOD, Los Alamos, Microsoft, Google, Atom Computing and many more.

The M.S. in quantum information science and engineering is made possible through a collaborative, interdisciplinary partnership between the School of Computing, the Department of Physics and Astronomy and the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science—all within the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

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M.S. in quantum engineering students may choose from two concentration paths, including:

  • Quantum Mechanics: Students study this fundamental physics theory to better understand how light and matter function on an atomic level.
  • Quantum Computation: This concentration utilizes quantum mechanics and computer science to help students harness the power of quantum computers. 
Student works in the lab

 

 

Quantum Engineering & Information Science Program Highlights

Research Opportunities

Graduate students pursue complex and prestigious research projects on research grants funded by federal agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DOD), Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and more. Research grants are also powered by private companies including IBM, Microsoft, NVIDIA, Google, Atom Computing and Honeywell.

 

There are many student-led organizations that host workshops, guest speakers, panels and networking events throughout the year.

  • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineering
  • Association of Computing Machinery
  • Tau Beta Pi Honor Society

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

UW offers a variety of graduate teaching assistantships and graduate research assistantships from the College of Engineering & Physical Sciences and the School of Computing. Individual faculty members also offer graduate research assistantships so that students can work on externally funded research grants.

ASSISTANTSHIPS

Many of our graduate students complete highly sought-after internships and co-ops after the first year of the M.S. program. Students regularly receive internship offers from national laboratories, including Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), among others, as well as various technology companies.

 

Quantum Information Science and Engineering is transforming cyber security and defense across the globe. It only makes sense that our courses are as cutting-edge and current as possible, given the ever-evolving nature of this emerging technology. Current course topics include:

  • Introduction to Quantum Computing
  • Quantum Algorithm Complexity
  • Quantum Machine Learning
  • Quantum Hardware Architecture

 

The University of Wyoming is a member of the Arizona State University Quantum Collaborative, a partnership that connects top research institutions. Due to this initiative, all of our QISE graduate students have access to IBM quantum computers.

QUANTUM COLLABORATIVE

What can you do with a master’s in quantum engineering and information science?

A master’s in quantum engineering and information science prepares you for careers at the forefront of emerging technologies, including roles as a quantum software or hardware engineer, algorithm developer, cryptography specialist or R&D engineer. You'll gain advanced skills in quantum mechanics, computation and experimental techniques, making you a strong candidate for jobs in tech companies, national labs or startups—or for continuing on to a Ph.D. program. This degree positions you to contribute to the rapidly growing field of quantum technologies.

  • Quantum software or hardware engineer
  • Quantum algorithm developer
  • Quantum systems researcher or lab technician
  • Quantum cryptography or cybersecurity specialist
  • Data scientist or machine learning engineer in quantum applications
  • Technical consultant in quantum technologies
  • R&D engineer at national labs, tech companies or startups
  • Ph.D. student in quantum science or engineering
  • And more!

  • National Laboratories
  • IBM
  • Microsoft
  • Google
  • Atom Computing
  • Honeywell
  • And more!

To become a quantum engineer, you typically start by earning a bachelor’s degree in physics, electrical engineering, computer science or a related field. From there, many pursue a specialized master’s or Ph.D. in quantum information science and engineering to gain deeper knowledge of quantum mechanics, computing and experimental techniques.

Building strong skills in programming, math and lab work is essential, along with experience in areas like quantum optics, cryogenics or nanotechnology. Internships, research projects and working with quantum-focused labs or companies can also help you break into this cutting-edge field.

Quantum engineers are hired across a wide range of industries, including:

  • Technology and computing
  • Cybersecurity
  • Finance
  • Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
  • Aerospace and defense
  • Telecommunications
  • National laboratories and government agencies
  • Academia and research institutions