Applied Quantum Computing MSc - 2026/7
Awarding body
University of Surrey
Teaching institute
University of Surrey
Framework
FHEQ Levels 6 and 7
Final award and programme/pathway title
MSc Applied Quantum Computing
Subsidiary award(s)
| Award | Title |
|---|---|
| PGDip | Applied Quantum Computing |
| PGCert | Applied Quantum Computing |
Modes of study
| Route code | Credits and ECTS Credits | |
| Full-time | PGA61009 | 180 credits and 90 ECTS credits |
QAA Subject benchmark statement (if applicable)
Other internal and / or external reference points
N/A
Faculty and Department / School
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences - Mathematics & Physics
Programme Leader
MURDIN Benedict (Maths & Phys)
Date of production/revision of spec
05/06/2026
Educational aims of the programme
- Analyze the impact of quantum computing on several different industries and domains (finance, chemistry, biology etc)
- Develop a solid understanding of the principles and foundations of quantum computing
- Explore quantum error correction and fault-tolerant quantum computing
- Explore quantum error correction and fault-tolerant quantum computing
- Explore the fundamental quantum algorithms and their applications
- Foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills specific to quantum computing
- Foster interdisciplinary collaboration and communication skills in quantum computing
- Gain practical experience in programming and simulating quantum circuits
- Prepare for future studies or careers in quantum computing and related fields
- Stay updated with the latest advancements and research in the field of quantum computing
- Understand the challenges and opportunities in quantum hardware development
Programme learning outcomes
| Attributes Developed | Awards | Ref. | |
| Communicate the fundamental principles and concepts of quantum mechanics that underpin a quantum computer through oral presentations, written reports, or other forms of documentation. | CPT | PGCert, PGDip, MSc | |
| Apply quantum algorithms, such as Grover's algorithm and Shor's algorithm, to solve specific computational problems. | C | PGCert, PGDip, MSc | |
| Design and construct quantum circuits using quantum gates and understand their role in quantum computation. | C | MSc | |
| Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different qubit hardware architectures for applications in quantum computing and communications. | C | MSc | |
| Evaluate the strengths and, crucially, the limitations of quantum computers relative to classical computers for different potential applications. | C | PGCert, PGDip, MSc | |
| Demonstrate proficiency in using quantum programming languages and tools for simulating and executing quantum algorithms. | KP | MSc | |
| Understand and explain the importance of decoherence and quantum error correction for achieving reliable quantum computations. | KP | PGCert, PGDip, MSc | |
| Critically evaluate the challenges in scaling up quantum computers and also the impact on opportunities for developing new codes. | C | MSc | |
| Discuss the ethical and societal implications of quantum computing and its potential impact on human activity in communications, optimization, and simulation. | PT | PGCert, PGDip, MSc | |
| Collaborate effectively in a team setting to design and implement quantum computing experiments or projects. | KCPT | PGCert, PGDip, MSc |
Attributes Developed
C - Cognitive/analytical
K - Subject knowledge
T - Transferable skills
P - Professional/Practical skills
Programme structure
Full-time
This Master's Degree programme is studied full-time over one academic year, consisting of 180 credits at FHEQ level 7*. All modules are semester based and worth 15 credits with the exception of project, practice based and dissertation modules.
Possible exit awards include:
- Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits)
- Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits)
*some programmes may contain up to 30 credits at FHEQ level 6.
Programme Adjustments (if applicable)
N/A
Modules
Year 1 (full-time) - FHEQ Levels 6 and 7
Module Selection for Year 1 (full-time) - FHEQ Levels 6 and 7
Students must select one optional module in Semester 1
Opportunities for placements / work related learning / collaborative activity
| Associate Tutor(s) / Guest Speakers / Visiting Academics | Y | |
| Professional Training Year (PTY) | N | |
| Placement(s) (study or work that are not part of PTY) | N | |
| Clinical Placement(s) (that are not part of the PTY scheme) | N | |
| Study exchange (Level 5) | N | |
| Dual degree | N |
Other information
Digital capabilities:
Quantum computing strengthens digital capability and underpins the programme, equipping students with advanced computational literacy and emerging technical skills central to next-generation technologies.
Employability:
Students gain an industry-relevant "quantum-ready" skill set in growing demand. The programme develops communication skills for explaining complex concepts through group analysis and presentations. Competitive summer research projects with partner companies provide real industrial experience, and company representatives attend student presentations to support networking for all students.
Global and cultural capabilities:
Mandatory embedded EDI workshops ensure engagement with diversity and inclusion across core modules. The optional Law, Artificial Intelligence + Technology module introduces global legal and cultural perspectives on emerging technologies through international case studies. Ethical analysis embedded in Quantum Communications encourages students to examine global impacts on privacy, fairness, and accountability, developing cultural awareness of differing ethical frameworks.
Resourcefulness and resilience:
Collaborative projects and guided seminars build confidence and independence. Students complete structured self-evaluation and targeted MOOC study to strengthen weak areas, promoting self-directed growth. Complex problem-solving tasks across the programme foster persistence, reflection, and adaptive thinking.
Sustainability:
Quantum technologies can enable more efficient solutions to computational problems relevant to sustainability. The Quantum Optimization module explores logistics and energy allocation challenges, showing how improved optimisation can reduce waste and support greener infrastructure.
Quality assurance
The Regulations and Codes of Practice for taught programmes can be found at:
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 2026/7 academic year.