Admission Requirements
Prior knowledge on quantum mechanics may be helpful but is not necessary; familiarity with complex numbers and linear algebra is sufficient.
Description
We introduce and study the mathematics of quantum information science (which brings together quantum mechanics and theoretical computer science) with a focus on computational aspects. We show how the laws of quantum mechanics give rise to a new model of computation, and we discuss several computational problems that can be solved more efficiently in this model of quantum computation. The most well known example is Shor’s algorithm for factoring large integers, which is explained towards the end of the course.
Course objectives
The goal of the course is to familiarize the students with the basic concepts of quantum computing, and to offer an in-depth understanding of certain quantum algorithms. After successful completion of the course, the student should be able to read research articles in the field.
Timetable
You will find the timetables for all courses and degree programmes of Leiden University in the tool MyTimetable (login). Any teaching activities that you have sucessfully registered for in MyStudyMap will automatically be displayed in MyTimeTable. Any timetables that you add manually, will be saved and automatically displayed the next time you sign in.
MyTimetable allows you to integrate your timetable with your calendar apps such as Outlook, Google Calendar, Apple Calendar and other calendar apps on your smartphone. Any timetable changes will be automatically synced with your calendar. If you wish, you can also receive an email notification of the change. You can turn notifications on in ‘Settings’ (after login).
For more information, watch the video or go the the 'help-page' in MyTimetable. Please note: Joint Degree students Leiden/Delft have to merge their two different timetables into one. This video explains how to do this.
Mode of instruction
Lectures, homework exercises, and some home study.
Assessment method
The examination consists of homework and an oral (retake) exam. The homework counts as a practical. There is no retake for it and it is evaluated on the basis of pass/fail. A pass is required to take part in the exam. The homework does not count towards the final grade, which is based only on the exam.
Reading list
Lecture notes will be provided (online) during the course. No additional literature is needed.
Registration
From the academic year 2022-2023 on every student has to register for courses with the new enrollment tool MyStudyMap. There are two registration periods per year: registration for the fall semester opens in July and registration for the spring semester opens in December. Please see this page for more information.
Please note that it is compulsory to both preregister and confirm your participation for every exam and retake. Not being registered for a course means that you are not allowed to participate in the final exam of the course. Confirming your exam participation is possible until ten days before the exam.
Extensive FAQ's on MyStudymap can be found here.
Contact
Email: serge.fehr@cwi.nl