In October, the new master's programme Quantum Information Science and Technology (QIST) will start. In an interview, Vice Dean of Studies Sabine Andergassen reveals the focus of the new master's programme, what career opportunities are available to graduates and why quantum technology is such an exciting field of research.

Quantum Information Science and Technology, or QIST for short, is the name of the new master's programme. What is behind it and what are the main focuses of the master's programme?

Sabine Andergassen (SA): Quantum Information Science and Quantum Technology have recently emerged as an independent and interdisciplinary research area at the interface between physics, computer science and electrical engineering. The aim is to find and solve scientific and technological issues ranging from basic research to its applications and economic implementation.

We are proud of our interdisciplinary studies in the three faculties of physics, computer science and electrical engineering. It is the first course of study of its kind at a university in Austria. The special thing about QIST is that it combines natural sciences and engineering.

The curriculum of the new master's program is based on the three pillars of Quantum Physics, Quantum Technology and Devices, and Quantum Information and Computing. It consists of a core part, which is the same for all students, and a modular specialisation part, which allows selective specialisations in different areas of application. In addition to a wide range of options for students, this also promotes interfaculty cooperation.

Through the interdisciplinary orientation, students develop a holistic understanding of quantum information technology and acquire the necessary basic knowledge of quantum physics, quantum information sciences and the relevant technology platforms. Through the cross-faculty specialization catalogue, they also have the opportunity to set a focus during the course of their studies. This enables both an equalization of the level of education and a flexible adaptation to individual interests and strengths.

The new master's programme is also a partial solution to the ongoing shortage of skilled workers, which is lamented in many areas. There is a lack of broad basic knowledge, and this is where we want to start with the Master's degree.

What are the reasons for offering the master's degree in English as the language of instruction?

SA: With the new Master's programme, we have launched an internationally oriented degree programme. On the one hand, this makes TU Wien even more interesting and competitive internationally as a research institution, and on the other hand, it enables our graduates to be able to work internationally later on. It also facilitates exchange and networking in the research community (all specialist literature is also in English), and students from abroad who spend a few semesters here, for example through ERASMUS, also benefit.

What career opportunities are open to students after graduation?

SA: Students enjoy a broad basic education during their studies and are taught sound basic knowledge, they learn to put theories into practice and apply them to various problems. Since science in this field is still relatively young, it is developing rapidly. We will therefore also design the curriculum dynamically and adapt it again and again. There are many career opportunities after this rather broad education. Graduates can gain further qualifications within the framework of a relevant doctoral programme, including at an international level, and pursue an academic career. Furthermore, there are various opportunities to get involved in applied research and development, both at non-university research institutions and in industry, as well as to gain a foothold in consulting and mediation.

What do you think makes quantum technology an exciting field of research?

SA: As already mentioned, quantum technology is still a rather young field of research, so there is still a lot to explore and it remains exciting to see where research in this area will take us. I find it particularly exciting to be able to contribute to further development with my research in this exciting and, in terms of technological realization, promising field and to be able to actively shape it. I am also very much looking forward to being able to pass on my knowledge to students as part of the master's program.

Details Quantum Information Science and Technology

• Course ID: UE 066 558 - Master’s Programme Quantum Information Science and Technology
• Duration of Course: 4 semesters
• Credits: 120 ECTS
• Language: English
• Certificate received upon completion: Master of Science (MSc)

Curriculum Quantum Information Science and Technology, opens an external URL in a new window, opens an external URL in a new window

More details master's programme QIST, opens an external URL in a new window

Text: TU Wien