Quantum information science is an interdisciplinary field of research concerned with the encoding, manipulation, and read-out of information in the state of a quantum system. This course will introduce the field, including aspects of classical information theory; the physics of measurement and evolution of finite-dimensional quantum systems; entanglement; and elements of quantum computation.

Typically 2 lectures per week.

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Assessment: The course will be assessed via continuous assessment in the form of set exercises (20%), and an unseen examination (80%).

Reassessment: Reassessment of the main diet examination is normally available for students on PGT degree programmes if they do not achieve an overall course grade of C3 at their first attempt. Reassessment of the main diet examination is not normally available for students on Honours degree programmes.

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The aims of this course are:

To introduce quantum information theory, including the necessary background in classical information theory, and the physics of finite-dimensional quantum systems.

To describe how to encode, manipulate and read-out information in a quantum system, and to discuss the relationship between physics and information processing.

To introduce quantum protocols such as teleportation, quantum key distribution, the principles of quantum computation, quantum communication, and some examples of quantum algorithms.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

Explain the difference between a bit, the carrier of classical information, and a qubit, the carrier of quantum information.

Give an example of a generalized quantum measurement and evaluate the probabilities of measurement outcomes.

Evaluate the evolution of a pure or mixed quantum state under a given quantum operation, perhaps represented as a quantum circuit.

Determine whether a composite pure state is entangled.

Perform advanced calculations in quantum information.

Understand and explain important examples of quantum protocols including dense coding, teleportation, quantum key distribution, quantum-enhanced sensing, Grover's algorithm and Shor's algorithm.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.