MSc Physics – Quantum Technology specialization (course-based master's)

Graduate students working on math and physics problems at IQC

Master the skills to drive innovation and build your career in the quantum industry

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 Gain hands-on experience in world class labs and facilities 

Train on cutting-edge hardware and simulation platforms in 3 dedicated graduate-level lab courses.

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 Build strong industry connections and career readiness 

Apply theoretical and experimental skills through an independent project course aimed at developing research capacity.

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 Join a thriving community of quantum researchers and distinguished faculty 

Prepare to lead in the quantum industry or advance to a quantum PhD program and be part of a thriving community of over 300 researchers. 

Program overview

The Master of Science degree in Physics with a specialization in Quantum Technology is a 12-month, course-based degree program. It is offered by the Institute for Quantum Computing in partnership with the Department of Physics and Astronomy and the Transformative Quantum Technologies (TQT) research initiative at the University of Waterloo.  This program is the university’s only course-based option for an MSc in Physics.

Instructors emphasize hands-on learning with quantum platforms in a lab dedicated to teaching, which equips graduates with the familiarity and understanding to drive the development and use of quantum technologies.

Admissions

Applications for this course-based degree program are limited to a fall term start only (unlike for the thesis-based degree option which has applications open three times a year).

Tuition scholarships will be offered to a limited number of students.

Faculty: Science

Department: Physics and Astronomy

Enrolment term: Fall (September - December)

Delivery mode: On-campus

Program type: Joint

Length of program: 12 months (full-time)

Study option: Coursework

Deadline: January 9, 2026

Annelise Bergeron adjusting a piece of lab equipment

Why study quantum science and technology at IQC?

→ Be a part of the breakthrough science and research harnessing quantum technology and advancing nearly all aspects of society including communications, medicine and materials science.

→ Join the most interdisciplinary quantum centre in the world – a community of researchers from seven academic home units across three faculties at the University of Waterloo. 

→ IQC is at the forefront of quantum workforce training and supports industry through shared-infrastructure and expertise.

Twenty-two startups have spun out of IQC research at the University of Waterloo, the top university for startup founders in Canada. 

Hear from our alumni

How did the program prepare you for your next steps, and what experiences have been most valuable after graduation?

The program provided a strong foundation in both experimental and theoretical aspects of quantum technology, which has been invaluable for my current research and will serve as a solid base for my future PhD studies. Ziyuan Yang

Class of 2026
I work as a Research Lab Technician at University of Southern California. The program provided most of the background knowledge required to obtain this type of position and definitely gave me a leg up over other candidates with only a Bachelor's degree. Zach St.Pierre

Class of 2022
This program exposed me to the diverse domains and applications of quantum technology through networking events, innovative challenges like Quantum for Health, the immersive laboratory courses, and the independent research course. Ilyas Sharif

Class of 2022
The program provided a perfect balance of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience that directly prepared me for my current role at Quantum Valley Ideas Lab (QVIL). Tejas Naik

Class of 2022
The consistent exposure to complex problems in a supportive and collaborative environment developed my problems-solving skills and enabled me to explore interesting problems at the intersection of machine learning and quantum technology. Ilyas Sharif

Class of 2022
The structured yet flexible nature of the program allowed me to systematically develop advanced skills in quantum device characterization, optical measurements, and quantum control. Ziyuan Yang

Class of 2026
The exploratory nature of the program allowed me to tackle challenging problems from multiple perspectives, ranging from rigorous theoretical courses to meticulous experimental labs. Ilyas Sharif

Class of 2022
The program equipped me with essential knowledge and hands-on experience, serving as a solid foundation for my current academic path. Cheng Zheng

Class of 2023
The environment at the Research Advancement Centre also provided the opportunity to collaborate with and learn from brilliant researchers, sparking new ideas and offering a glimpse into various research possibilities. Rahul Menon

Class of 2021
The most valuable experiences for me were the laboratory courses, which not only provided hands-on experience with various quantum devices, but also developed my skills in collecting, analyzing and presenting experimental results. Ilyas Sharif

Class of 2022
The most valuable skills I gained were in quantum control techniques and the ability to model and implement quantum systems—skills I now use daily in my role. Tejas Naik

Class of 2022
I've used topics from the non-lab courses for theory work and discussions. Just today I discussed spin ensembles in magnetic fields as was explored in the NMR lab. Writing an article style paper in overleaf has been helpful..the list goes on. Zach St.Pierre

Class of 2022
The multiple lab courses were invaluable, equipping me with a versatile toolkit and the confidence to tackle diverse projects after graduation. Rahul Menon

Class of 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

Program structure

Is this a thesis-based program?

No. This is a course-based program. Students complete coursework, hands-on lab training, and an independent research project, but not a thesis.

What does the independent research course involve?

Students complete a final written report (submitted to their project supervisor) and a final presentation (delivered to the course coordinator). The research course is offered every term, but students must secure a supervisor match before enroling. Approval from both the supervisor and the course coordinator is required.

Do I need to contact supervisors before applying?

No. A supervisor is not required for admission.

Is this program focused on quantum hardware or software?

This is a hardware-focused program. Students work with experimental platforms, devices, and techniques used in industry and research. Students train on modern quantum hardware comparable to equipment used in active research labs.

How long has the program been running?

Five years.

Are there networking or employer connections?

Students have access to IQC events, outreach activities and networking opportunities as part of the IQC community.

Can this program lead to further graduate studies?

Yes. Several students have continued into research roles or graduate-level programs, including opportunities at the Perimeter Institute. Learn more about where program alumni are working now.

Courses and workload

What is the expected workload?

A full-time course load (three graduate courses per term) is equivalent to full-time study. Laboratory courses require three hours of scheduled lab time each week

Optional lab practice and office hours are offered. 

Workload varies by student. Lab reports typically require the most time, and many students spend significant additional hours on assignments and lab practice.

Can I complete the program part-time?

Yes. Part-time study is possible, and some students extend the program over two years. Executive or part-time business-oriented quantum programs are not offered within this degree stream. However, part-time enrolment may be suitable for working professionals, depending on capacity and employer support.

Is there a sample course sequence?

A typical sequence is:

  • Fall: QIC 860 (lab), PHYS 701, QIC 710
  • Winter: QIC 861 (lab), QIC 750, elective
  • Spring: QIC 862 (lab), elective (often the research course)

Admissions

What GPA is required?

A minimum 75% average in the bachelor's degree, consistent with Physics graduate program requirements.

What makes a strong applicant?

Competitive applicants typically have:

  • Strong grades in relevant courses (quantum mechanics, linear algebra, electromagnetism, etc.)

  • Strong reference letters

  • Clear motivation for quantum technology

Is the GRE required?

No. The GRE is not required. It may be helpful but is not necessary for admission.

What undergraduate background is needed?

Applicants generally come from physics or closely related fields with appropriate preparation. There is no applied mathematics version of this program.

Are mature applicants considered?

Yes, provided they meet academic requirements.

Fees, funding and scholarships

What are the tuition fees?

Standard University of Waterloo graduate tuition for Science programs applies. Exact domestic and international rates are available through Graduate Studies.

Are scholarships available?

Entrance scholarships are merit-based and not guaranteed. However, tuition scholarships will be offered to a limited number of students. Funding details are included with admission decisions.

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