Unique quantum technology Master’s program opens doors to diverse careers
After completing an undergraduate degree in mathematical physics, Jeremie Corkery (BSc ‘25) wanted to maximize his career opportunities and gain lab experience. The Master of Science degree in Physics with a specialization in Quantum Technology checked all the boxes, opening doors in the quantum industry job market and creating a niche for a career in more traditional industries.
The 12-month MSc Physics – Quantum Technology specialization program is the only course-based option for a master's degree in physics at the University of Waterloo. It is offered by the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) in partnership with the Department of Physics and Astronomy and the Transformative Quantum Technologies (TQT) research initiative at the University of Waterloo.
“It’s a demanding program that gives an overview of the field and is perfect if you want to get a taste of working in quantum technology or still deciding on an academic path—it builds a large toolbox to take into any career”
- Jeremie Corkery, MSc Physics – Quantum Technology specialization
Corkery says what he learned in the Master’s program is a strong differentiator in his work as Data Science and AI Associate at consultancy firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). Particularly as quantum specialization today can be compared to a specialization in artificial intelligence a decade ago.
“Quantum technology companies are gaining traction, and there is also an opportunity to bring quantum expertise to broader industry and be the subject matter expert,” Corkery says. “You’ll get out of the program what you put in. Whether you want to take classes and network to prepare for a PhD, get to know quantum startups or prepare for a quantum industry job—if you’re ready to work hard this degree will help you stand out.”
The program’s main activities take place at the Research Advancement Centre (RAC) just north of University of Waterloo’s main campus where there is dedicated lab space. Students also have access to events and seminars at IQC’s Quantum-Nano Centre (QNC) and join the broader IQC community of 300 quantum researchers across seven Waterloo academic units in the Mathematics, Science and Engineering faculties.
Michael Grabowecky, quantum technology lab lead at the Research Advancement Centre, says coupling hands-on lab experience with graduate courses gives students a unique breadth of experience.
“The lab work is relevant to active research in industry and academia, giving students a breadth of knowledge so they can choose the career path that is right for them. Graduates from this program gain the necessary expertise to contribute to the quantum workforce and help industries navigate the opportunities and changes emerging from advancements in quantum technologies.”
- Michael Grabowecky, quantum technology lab lead
Beyond courses and lab work, the master’s program provides a built-in connection to researchers at IQC and to the broader Waterloo quantum ecosystem.
“The environment is conducive to getting the most out of a short program," Corkery says. "There’s a lot happening at IQC and Waterloo, things that I can immediately bring with me into my career that I would have otherwise missed out on.”