You’ve heard of quantum computing – the unusual intersection of quantum mechanics, computer science, and mathematics. You’ve seen the articles and headlines, but after all of that reading, you’re still unsure of where to start. Does this describe you?
You are certainly not alone. One of the most commonly encountered questions by quantum educators, students, and researchers is: “How do I start learning quantum computing?”
The struggle in answering this question is due to the rapid pace of change in the field. Major research centers and industry giants – from IBM to MIT to the Max Planck Society – stand on the cutting edge of this technology, making waves that reverberate throughout the world. Yet the dynamic nature of the field, as the broad focus spans anything from the status of quantum hardware to real-world applications, can feel daunting to someone new to quantum computing. This is especially true given interest is garnered among communities of all levels, from high school students intrigued by the multidisciplinary nature to high-level business executives interested in the implications quantum can have on their companies.
We delve into some favorite quantum boot camps, resources, and courses available to anyone looking to get a start in quantum computing.
Quantum Computing Resources to Start Your Journey
Sometimes, before jumping directly into a bootcamp or course, it can help to gain a basic understanding of what quantum computing is. The Quantum Insider provides a comprehensive introduction to quantum computing, written by Elias Lehman from the University of California at Berkeley, in a friendly textbook format. Other major quantum institutions, such as IBM, provide similar materials intended to define basic quantum vocabulary, alongside code examples. We highlight several below:
Q-munity Tech Quantum Computing Courses
These series of courses on introductory quantum computing materials are reader-friendly and focus on building a conceptual understanding and interest. The courses are free of charge and open to any entry-level student.
IBM Quantum Learning Modules
These quantum learning modules take the place of the IBM Qiskit Textbook (the latter of which ran on an older version of the quantum computing language, Qiskit). The courses, including “Basics of Quantum Information” and “Fundamentals of Quantum Algorithms,” introduce quantum computing from a hands-on perspective. This is especially useful in getting to know one of the most commonly used languages in quantum computing, Qiskit.
Jumping into Quantum Computing Courses
If you are looking to commit to longer-term courses (or if you learn better in a classroom setting), there are a handful of programs open to anyone looking to hop into learning online.
Qubit x Qubit Courses
Qubit x Qubit (read “qubit by qubit”) runs some of the most comprehensive course series in quantum computing for beginners. Each semester, they attract several thousand students from across the world to participate in their online programs, including their “Introduction to Quantum Computing” course for high school students and above, set to begin in Fall 2024. Students are also invited to several special speaker events and virtual lab tours throughout the program.
Additionally, Qubit x Qubit hosts the Quantum Tech Boot Camp, a free crash course-style boot camp for current undergraduate students at Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). In 2024, the program will run from July 22 – 26 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm EST.
MIT Quantum Computing Fundamentals Course
The course is a two-part program hosted by the MITxPRO platform. Although the course is not free – with a price of $2,319 for the four-week course – the material covered begins with the familiar quantum computing and then delves deeply into extended subjects. These extensions, discussed in the second part of the course, include quantum algorithms with applications in the likes of chemistry, optimization, and cybersecurity.
Diving Into the Deep End of Quantum Computing
For individuals looking for a challenge – or to refresh their skills in quantum computing – a pit stop to check out challenges and more advanced programs is always an option.
IBM Quantum Challenge
The IBM Quantum Challenge is an annual one to two-week-long event in which participants have the chance to solve a series of Qiskit-based challenges. These challenges can range from something as simple as recreating a specific state to more advanced areas, such as implementing a quantum error correction algorithm given some set of input parameters. While the 2024 challenge began on June 5th, it generally returns from year to year with a spotlight on “hot” quantum topics or underlying technical challenges driving current research.
Read also: IBM Quantum Challenge 2024: Student Edition Insights
Womanium Quantum & AI Summer Program
Recently, Womanium started off their third annual quantum computing program. While the program is not free, students may apply for scholarships, gaining access to lab tours, in-depth lectures on quantum machine learning, and hands-on activities to extend their understanding of quantum computing. The program straddles the exciting intersection of these fields and becomes a pathway to venture further into QML.
Let the Adventure Begin!
Of course, the list of courses and resources online are endless. But no matter where you are in your quantum journey, the resources given here will help you build the solid foundation needed to scale your quantum universe.
