Quantum Computers and Sensors

This course introduces students to the principles and technologies that underpin quantum information science and its rapidly expanding applications. The course covers the fundamentals of quantum mechanics as they relate to computing and sensing, including qubits, entanglement, and superposition, and explores how these concepts enable breakthroughs in computation, communication, and precision measurement.

Students will examine current and emerging applications across fields such as cryptography, materials science, and navigation, while also considering the broader implications for industry and society. The course addresses national and global policy dimensions, including semiconductor and chip development, export controls, and the strategic importance of quantum technologies for national security and economic competitiveness. Through case studies and policy analysis, students will gain a nuanced understanding of how quantum innovation intersects with technology governance and global power dynamics.