Quantum Technologies | University of Oxford

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Course summary

The information provided on this page was correct at the time of publication (November 2025). For complete and up-to-date information about this course, please visit the relevant University of Oxford course page via www.graduate.ox.ac.uk/ucas.

The MSc in Quantum Technologies is a taught interdisciplinary course covering quantum computing, sensing, and communications, with practical training and a four-month research project bridging academia and industry.

Quantum technologies (across quantum computing, sensing and communications) have the potential to bring transformative changes across different sectors from scientific research to industrial applications.

The MSc in Quantum Technologies will provide you with the central technical background in these technologies, combined with hands-on practical training through short modules and research experience through an extended four-month project.

This course is taught in collaboration with the Departments of Engineering, Materials, Mathematics, Computer Science and Chemistry, providing an interdisciplinary overview. The course is designed to be accessible to students with a strong background in any of these areas of study.

At the end of the course, it is expected that you will have achieved the following learning objectives:

to have a technical overview of the principles underpinning quantum technologies
to understand the principles of quantum computing, sensing and communications
to have an overview of the state-of-the-art in hardware for quantum technologies
to have further detailed knowledge of specific topics within quantum technologies and their applications (through chosen option courses)
to appreciate the challenges and opportunities of translating quantum technologies to applications across different setups
to complete short training in transferable skills including presenting work
to have practical hands-on experience in practical techniques underpinning quantum technologies chosen from options ranging from laboratory techniques and control systems to programming of quantum computers
to have demonstrated competence in completing and presenting a research project, both in written and oral form

Course structure
The academic year is split into three terms of eight weeks but work on the MSc course continues throughout the year and is not restricted just to term time.

During the three terms of the course, you will choose from modules on various aspects of quantum technologies.

There are two seminar-based compulsory modules comprising an Industry Seminar and a Graduate Public Engagement element. The Industry Seminar is assessed by a coursework report. Option modules are available in terms one and two.

You will work on a four-month research project and will be placed either within a University research team, or at an industrial partner organisation.

The course will be strongly connected to the emerging international quantum technologies industry, with regular industry seminars highlighting the opportunities and challenges of translating these technologies across different sectors, as well as entrepreneurship and IP management. Some projects will be directly connected to or based within industry research teams.