Computer Science (Quantum Information) - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Mike and Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre

The Mike and Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre, home to the Institute for Quantum Computing and the Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, located on Waterloo's main campus.

Develop advanced expertise in computer science and quantum information with this cross-disciplinary PhD program.

Offered through an interdisciplinary program with the Institute of Quantum Computing (IQC), you will apply theories from computer science to understand and use properties from the quantum world.

Learn about and engage in world-leading research in quantum information through a wide range of advanced research projects and advanced courses on the foundations, applications and implementation of quantum information processing. 

  As a PhD student, you will develop advanced expertise in your particular research area within quantum information and will be prepared for a career as a scholar and researcher.

Learn more about the Collaborative Quantum Information program →

Program highlights

  • The Cheriton School of Computer Science has been ranked number one nationally four years in a row based on program and research reputation according to the Maclean’s 2024 university rankings. 

  • Learn from internationally acclaimed researchers.

  • Access research-intensive lab spaces.

  • Opportunities to publish your work and present at top conferences.

  • Own your work. Waterloo’s intellectual property (IP) policy means that everything you create is yours to keep. 

Program overview

Department/School: David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science
Faculty: Faculty of Mathematics
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December), Winter (January - April), Spring (May - August)
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Collaborative, Doctoral, Research
Length of program: 48 months (full-time)
Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time
Study option(s): Thesis

Application deadlines

  • December 1 (for admission in September of the following year)
  • June 1 (for admission in January of the following year)
  • October 1 (for admission in May of the following year)

Key contacts

Computer Science Graduate Office

Computer Science Graduate Admissions

Supervisors

  • Review the finding a supervisor resources.
  • It is not required to find a supervisor before applying. However, students are advised to establish contact with potential supervisors before applying.

Admission requirements

  • A master's degree in computer science with a 78% average.
  • Student with an undergraduate degree in computer science may apply for admission directly to the PhD program. Successful applicants will have an outstanding academic record, breadth of knowledge in computer science, and strong letters of recommendation.
  • PhD applicants may be admitted into the Master of Mathematics (MMath) program. Like all MMath students, they will have the option to transfer into the PhD program before completing the master's thesis if their performance warrants.

Degree requirements

Application materials

  • Resume
  • Statement of interest
    • A statement of maximum 500 words explaining your interest in and fit for the program you’re applying to, uploaded as a supporting document in the online application. Review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion.
  • Program-specific questions (PSQ)
    • These are questions specific to the program you’re applying to. They can be viewed once you’ve started an application and are completed through a form in the online application.

  • Transcript(s)

  • References
    • Three references are required; at least two academic.
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 93 (writing 22, speaking 22), IELTS 6.5 (writing 6.0, speaking 6.5)

Tuition and fees