Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2025-2026
Module COMP54115: Quantum Computing
Department: Computer Science
COMP54115: Quantum Computing
| Type | Tied | Level | 5 | Credits | 15 | Availability | Available in 2025/2026 | Module Cap |
|---|
| Tied to | G5T609 |
|---|---|
| Tied to | G5T709 |
Prerequisites
- None
Corequisites
- None
Excluded Combination of Modules
- None
Aims
- To introduce students to Quantum Information Processing, Quantum Computing, and Quantum Networking with emphasis on where these may be advantageous over the classical approach.
Content
- Introduction to Quantum Mechanics.
- Notion of Qubits.
- Quantum Key Distribution.
- EPR Paradox.
- Quantum Gates and Circuits.
- Quantum Computing Algorithms.
- Introduction to Quantum Networking.
- Entanglement Swapping.
- Quantum Switch and Line-networks.
- Purification Protocols.
- Link-layer protocols.
- Entanglement distribution algorithms.
Learning Outcomes
Subject-specific Knowledge:
- By the end of this module, students should be able to demonstrate:
- an understanding of Quantum Information and its properties.
- an understanding of quantum circuits and algorithms.
- an understanding of concepts and principles of Quantum Networking.
- knowledge of relevant software tools to implement quantum networks and algorithms.
Subject-specific Skills:
- By the end of this module, students should be able to demonstrate:
- an ability to apply concepts and principles of quantum computation and networking.
- an ability to analyse quantum algorithms.
- an ability to study quantum algorithms using relevant programming tools.
Key Skills:
- By the end of this module, students should be able to demonstrate:
- an ability to propose new quantum computing algorithms.
- an ability to model and analyse quantum networks.
- an ability to provide solutions to challenges in building Quantum Internet.
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module
- Lectures enable the students to learn new material relevant to Quantum Computing and Quantum Networking.
- Problem classes introduce students to software used to implement quantum circuits and algorithms, as well as support the development of their coursework.
- Summative assessments assess the application of methods and techniques.
- Students are encouraged to explore some topic in detail and write a report about it.
- The assignment element of the coursework component consists of a coding exercise with accompanying report.
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
| Activity | Number | Frequency | Duration | Total/Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 12 | 2 per week (1 in weeks 2, 4, 6, 8) | 2 hours | 24 | |
| Problem Classes | 4 | 1 per week (weeks 2, 4, 6, 8) | 2 hours | 8 | |
| Preparation and Reading | 118 | ||||
| Total | 150 |
Summative Assessment
| Component: Coursework | Component Weighting: 100% | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| Exercise | 70% | ||
| Assignment | 30% | ||
Formative Assessment:
Formative exercises will be provided.
■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University