QUANTUM ALGORITHMS - 2024/5

Module Overview

This module covers circuit-based quantum computers and some of the algorithms that can be implemented using them.  The idea of a classical computational algorithm and its complexity is introduced, and used as a language to discuss quantum computational algorithms.  Components of quantum circuits are discussed individually, and then built up to show how algorithms such as the quantum Fourier transform and Grover’s search algorithm can be implemented, and how such algorithms can be used in applications such as factorizing integers using Shor’s algorithm.  The Python package qiskit is introduced and used as a tool to implement the algorithms on simulated quantum computers.

Module provider

Mathematics & Physics

Module Leader

STEVENSON Paul (Maths & Phys)

Number of Credits: 15

ECTS Credits: 7.5

Framework: FHEQ Level 7

Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Module Availability

Semester 2

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

N/A

Module content

This module introduces the concept of algorithms, the ideas of circuit-based universal quantum computers, the qiskit programming package, and the implementation of particular quantum algorithms on quantum computers using qiskit.

The concepts of algorithms are discussed in a general sense, introducing ideas of their complexity and of algorithms as information processors.  Circuit-based universal quantum computers are presented, through introducing individual gates and their operation on qubits and qubit registers.  Through building up circuits, examples of different quantum algorithms are developed.  Basic algorithms include Grover’s algorithm for database search and the quantum Fourier transform.  In each case, the algorithms are compared to classical equivalent in terms of complexity and function.  Further uses of algorithms in solving problems are discussed, including the example of Shor’s algorithm using the quantum Fourier transform in an algorithm to factor integers.

Throughout the module the Python package qiskit is used to implement quantum algorithms on simulated quantum computers.  The package will be introduced from scratch and taught to a level where students taking this module will be able to use it in their own implementation of quantum algorithms.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

As part of our commitment to the values of the Department, an equality, diversity and inclusion awareness workshop will be held.

Assessment pattern

Alternative Assessment

N/A

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate:

• The assessment of engagement with the EDI Awareness Workshop will be by an open book quiz with unlimited re-attempts, but it must be passed in order to pass the module. (Learning outcome 6).


• Shorter questions testing knowledge and basic understanding are assessed in a mid-semester online test, testing learning outcomes 1, 3, and 4.


• A project assignment in which the student has to develop and implement a working algorithm is assessed orally at the end of the semester, which assesses outcomes 2 and 5.

• Weekly formative exit tests will give formative feedback on how students are progressing.

• The results of the formative tests can be discussed with the teaching team in the computational laboratory sessions, where feedback on any other aspect of the student’s understanding can also be obtained.


• The mid-semester online test gives feedback on knowledge and skills gained to that point.

Module aims

• To summarize concepts of algorithms and complexity from classical computing.
• To introduce the circuit paradigm for general quantum computers.
• To teach the qiskit package for implementing quantum circuits.
• To cover basic quantum algorithms and their circuit implementation. These algorithms to include: Grover, Quantum Fourier Transform, Quantum Phase Estimation, Shor.

Learning outcomes

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is designed to:

• Ensure that students are able to understand and explain concepts related to quantum algorithms, and to be able to implement algorithms in practice using the qiskit language on simulated quantum computers.

• Lecture-based classes to cover key theoretical concepts within the module


• Computer laboratory classes in which students implement ideas from the lecture-based classes

Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.

Reading list

https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: PHYM071

Other information

Global and Cultural Capabilities The module includes an Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity (EDI) workshop which aims to increase awareness of cultural, religious, or racial differences while delivering information about how a person can change their behavior to be more inclusive. Through this training, students are encouraged to diversify their knowledge and reflect upon their experiences as a physicist and in education. 

Sustainability Algorithms in this module demonstrate the principle that quantum computes may operate with significantly improved algorithmic efficiency than classical algorithms, leading to the improved energy costs of performing computational tasks with future technology.

Digital Capability This module trains students in the next wave of computational technology being developed worldwide that promises to transform the economy and computational infrastructure in years to come.

Programmes this module appears in

Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2024/5 academic year.