Quantum computing is a non-classical paradigm for computation that uses the properties and effects of quantum mechanics to represent and manipulate information. Certain computations can be performed more efficiently on quantum computers than on classical computers, an example of this is sublinear search of unstructured data. Quantum computing also leads to new approaches to cryptography. In this module we will study the principles of operation of quantum computers, the algorithms and protocols that are designed to use them, and different ways of reasoning about quantum computation. We will also consider the physical realisations of quantum computers, and their potential future impact.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Understand and explain the principles of quantum computation and its physical realisation
Understand, explain, and apply a range of quantum algorithms and protocols
Use both algebraic and diagrammatic techniques to reason about quantum computation
Explain and reason about the potential applications and impact of quantum computing
Demonstrate an awareness of the current literature in this area