Programs: Interdisciplinary Dual Degree Programs

Quantum computing has heralded a fundamental technological shift, wherein the laws of quantum mechanics, characterized by superposition and entanglement, are being harnessed to perform computing tasks that would be otherwise intractable, even for supercomputers. Quantum science and technologies have taken giant strides over the last decade, with companies like IBM, Google and Honeywell showcasing quantum devices with 10-100s of quantum bits (qubits). Keeping in mind the widespread need for a quantum-skilled workforce, across academia and industry, IIT Madras introduced the interdisciplinary dual-degree program on quantum science and technologies (QuST) in 2020.

Program Overview

The core courses of the IDDD QuST programme are offered by faculty from the departments of Physics and Electrical Engineering., while the suggested elective courses are spread out across Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.

The aim of the program is to provide students with fundamental knowledge and skills in the domain of Quantum Science and Technology (QuST). Key learning outcomes include,

1. Basic understanding of theoretical aspects of quantum bits, quantum gates, circuits and algorithms.
2. Hardware skills: understanding the physical and technical aspects of building quantum devices, across different quantum computing architectures.
3. Software skills: implementing quantum algorithms and protocols on existing quantum device platforms.
4. Application of quantum information theory to fundamental physics questions in areas like many-body physics and cosmology.

Selection Process

B.Tech students (all branches) of IIT Madras can opt for this program. The minimum eligibility criteria prescribed by the senate is that the student should have a minimum of 8 CGPA at the end of 5 th semester.

Structure of the Program

IDDD-QuST has a very flexible curriculum. The programme spans a period of four semesters of the five-year dual degree programme. The core course on Quantum Computation and Quantum Information lays the required foundation for the program and the Quantum Computing Lab course being offered in partnership with IBM India, provides hands-on training in using the IBM quantum processors.

There will be five core courses that include a course on Quantum Computation and Quantum

Information, an ID course on Experimental Techniques for Quantum Computation and Metrology, a course on Quantum Electronics and Lasers, a course on Optical Signal Processing and Quantum Communications and the QC Lab course. (39 credits of DD core courses).

The core component also includes a project during the 9th and 10th semesters worth 85 credits.