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Explore top online quantum computing courses

What's the next wave in tech? Quantum computing has the power to transform technology — and you can start studying this emerging field today.

Key takeaways

  • Quantum computers use the principles of quantum mechanics to solve problems more efficiently than traditional computers.
  • Expand your knowledge of this emerging field with courses, certificates, and quantum computing programs.
  • Studying quantum computing can lead to careers in computer science or build in-demand skills for your current field.

Popular online quantum computing courses with certificates

What is quantum computing?

Quantum computing is an emerging field within computer science that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to solve complex problems quickly. It utilizes qubits, or quantum bits, that can exist in multiple states simultaneously, enabling parallel computations and efficient problem-solving.

Quantum computing uses the unique behavior of quantum particles to perform many mathematical calculations at once. Quantum computers can solve problems more quickly and efficiently than traditional computers.

Why learn quantum computing?

  • Get ahead of the curve and prepare for the next wave of quantum-driven computing careers.
  • Expand your knowledge of algorithms, machine learning, and applied computing techniques, strengthening high-demand skills.
  • Learn how quantum computing will transform fields like renewable energy, finance, medical research, and technology.

Browse online Quantum Computing Certificates

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How does quantum computing technology work?

To understand how quantum computing technology works, you must know how a traditional computer works. Your computer's central processing unit contains billions of transistors. Each transistor is a binary switch that can be off or on, creating a bit of information in the form of a 0 or a 1.

Although more transistors make a more powerful computer, their binary nature creates a speed bottleneck. Quantum transistors solve this problem by allowing for superposition, the concept that matter can exist in multiple states at once. Transistors can simultaneously exist as on and off or as 0 and 1. Key advantages include a massive increase in processing power with a fraction of the transistors.

Key principles of quantum mechanics

Before starting a quantum computing course, review the four key principles of quantum mechanics that have inspired this groundbreaking technology.

  • Superposition: Quantum superposition states that matter acts like a wave at the subatomic level. Waves can combine and create new things, meaning that what is observed at a particular instant may not be the same thing that existed the instant before or after.
  • Entanglement: Quantum entanglement is when two subatomic particles become linked. No matter how far apart these particles drift from one another, they will always act the same way.
  • Decoherence: Quantum decoherence is when a subatomic particle loses its superposition. While a coin flipping in the air has superposition because it is heads and tails simultaneously, it becomes decoherent once it lands because it must be heads or tails.
  • Interference: Superimposed subatomic particles create interference when their waves interact. This interference affects the chances of different outcomes, such as how a subatomic particle will travel.

Careers you can pursue with a quantum computing background

Quantum computing jobs continue to evolve as quantum technology advances, though the majority of roles require at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

Below, find a few roles that use quantum computing, with required education information and salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

Computer and information research scientist

Many computer and information research scientists study quantum theory and conduct experiments to find solutions to problems. They may work for large corporations or the local, state, and federal governments.

  • Required education: Master's degree in computer science, computer and information technology, computer engineering, or a related field; some employers may also require a doctorate
  • Median annual salary (2024): $140,910

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How to get started in quantum computing

Are you fascinated by the promise of quantum computing? You can get started in this emerging field by learning quantum computing online with edX.

1. Make a learning plan

Consider why you want to learn quantum computing. Perform self-reflection to discover your motivations. If quantum computing is a general interest subject or a potential hobby, you may not need an undergraduate or graduate degree.

To qualify for an entry-level job, you'll need many years of schooling. Research programs to get a general idea of how long you need to study. Most master's degrees take 12-36 months to earn on top of four years to complete a bachelor's degree program. Doctoral programs require an additional 4-8 years.

Once you know what you want to do with your education, make a plan. Leave yourself some wiggle room if unexpected events require you to pause your studies.

Featured courses


Explore quantum computing programs

How to choose the best quantum computing program for you

What's the best path to learn quantum computing? Discover more about the program types, timelines, and what you can learn below.

Course
Who is it best for?
Learners who want to build foundational knowledge or expand their understanding
Typical duration
2-6 weeks
Cost range
Starting at ~$50
What you can learn
Quantum computing fundamentals; quantum circuits; fundamentals of quantum information
Professional certificate
Who is it best for?
Learners who want to move into quantum computing or advance in a related field
Typical duration
2-10 months
Cost range
Starting at ~$500
What you can learn
Quantum computing systems design; quantum computing hardware; applied quantum computing
Executive education
Who is it best for?
Experienced professionals who want to add specific skills to their resume
Typical duration
6-20+ weeks
Cost range
Starting at ~$2,500
What you can learn
Quantum technology for decision-makers; quantum computing, sensing, and detector technology
Bachelor's program
Who is it best for?
Learners seeking core credentials for careers in computing and technology
Typical duration
4 years (full-time); up to 6 years (part-time)
Cost range
Starts at $10,000
What you can learn
Computer science; electrical engineering; quantum computing
Master's program
Who is it best for?
Graduate-prepared learners who want to develop expertise in quantum computing
Typical duration
12-36 months
Cost range
Starts at $10,000
What you can learn
Quantum science and technology; quantum technology applications; applied quantum computing

Frequently asked questions

Will artificial intelligence replace quantum computing?

No, artificial intelligence (AI) will not replace quantum computing. In fact, quantum computing has the power to transform and drive AI. By speeding up the processing power of today's computers, quantum computing can vastly increase the computational power driving AI. As a result, studying quantum computing can be a great investment in the age of AI.

What's the difference between quantum computing and classical computing?

In classical computing, data is represented using binary code, where each bit of data can be either a 0 or a 1. On the other hand, in quantum computing, qubits can exist in states of 0, 1, or both simultaneously due to superposition. This allows quantum computers to perform computations in parallel and solve complex problems much faster than classical computers.

What skills do you need to become a quantum computer scientist?

Quantum computer scientists have in-depth knowledge of quantum physics, data analysis, engineering, modeling, math, and coding. Quantum computing engineers, quantum computer scientists, and quantum developers perform the same tasks as general computing engineers, computer scientists, and developers, except that they use quantum mechanics in their work.

What can you expect from a quantum computing program?

A quantum computing course, either in the form of an in-person class or an online course, may begin with an overview of traditional and quantum computing and quantum physics, followed by a study of the algorithm construction process. A more advanced quantum computing course will dig deeper and require greater knowledge of math, coding, and data science.

How close are we to quantum computing?

For decades, quantum computing was strictly theoretical. But the first quantum computer was developed in the late 20th century, so quantum computing is already here! Now, people can even take a quantum computing class online and earn a quantum computing certificate upon completion. Cloud computing services, such as Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud Platform, offer quantum computing services for rent.

What companies are working on quantum computing?

The exact number of quantum computers in the world is unknown. Advancements in quantum computing are often kept tightly under wraps, and some governments may have quantum computer programs that are not publicly known. What is known, however, is that quantum computers have been built worldwide by companies such as Google, Amazon, IBM, Intel, and Microsoft.