Development of an Undergraduate Quantum Engineering Degree

TL;DR

This paper describes the creation and first year of the world's first undergraduate quantum engineering degree, aiming to inform global educational strategies for training future quantum engineers amid rising industry demand.

Contribution

It presents the development process and initial implementation of a novel undergraduate program combining quantum mechanics and engineering.

Findings

First-year curriculum successfully launched

Student interest and enrollment increased

Program serves as a model for future quantum engineering education

Abstract

Quantum technology is exploding. Computing, communication, and sensing are just a few areas likely to see breakthroughs in the next few years. Worldwide, national governments, industries, and universities are moving to create a new class of workforce - the Quantum Engineers. Demand for such engineers is predicted to be in the tens of thousands within a five-year timescale. However, how best to train this next generation of engineers is far from obvious. Quantum mechanics - long a pillar of traditional physics undergraduate degrees - must now be merged with traditional engineering offerings. This paper discusses the history, development, and first year of operation of the world's first undergraduate degree in quantum engineering. The main purpose of the paper is to inform the wider debate, now being held by many institutions worldwide, on how best to formally educate the Quantum Engineer.