Which Major Best Supports a Career in Quantum Computing and AI?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the best academic path for a career in quantum computing (QC) and artificial intelligence (AI), specifically considering the merits of double majoring in Computer Engineering (CE) combined with either Physics or Mathematics. Participants explore the implications of each combination for future work in quantum computing and AI.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the choice between CE + Physics or CE + Mathematics depends on the specific area of quantum computing one wishes to pursue, with a focus on hardware recommending a combination of Physics and Electrical Engineering.
  • Another participant questions the necessity of a Computer Science background, arguing that programming quantum computers may require more advanced mathematics and quantum physics knowledge than traditional computer science skills.
  • There is a suggestion that while programming skills can be self-taught, the unique challenges of quantum computing might necessitate a deeper understanding of physics and mathematics.
  • Some participants express uncertainty about the relevance of traditional computer science in the context of quantum computing, indicating that it may not be directly applicable.
  • One participant mentions that basic computer science concepts are often included in Physics curricula, which may alleviate some concerns about lacking programming skills.
  • There is a recommendation to reach out to researchers in the field for further insights and guidance on academic paths.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best academic combination for pursuing careers in quantum computing and AI. Multiple competing views remain regarding the relevance of Computer Science versus a focus on Physics and Mathematics.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying assumptions about the applicability of traditional computer science skills to quantum computing, and there is acknowledgment of the evolving nature of the field, including the development of specialized software development kits (SDKs) for quantum computing.

Jpmcke
Hey all, I'm a student in university who wants to Double Major in Computer Engineering and Physics or Mathematics. Ideally I want to get some time in working on quantum computers and some time in working on advanced AI, so one of the big things I want to do is pick the community's brain on whether CE + Phys or CE + Math major is best for these ambitions.
 
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First of all welcome! I plan on getting into QC in the future as well! Your question depends on what you want to do IN Quantum Computing. Personally, I want to get in on the hardware side so it's been recommended to try and Major in Physics and Electrical Engineering.

If you want to get into programming them, you'd probably want to get more involved on the mathematics side, along with Physics.
 
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Kyle Bernard said:
First of all welcome! I plan on getting into QC in the future as well! Your question depends on what you want to do IN Quantum Computing. Personally, I want to get in on the hardware side so it's been recommended to try and Major in Physics and Electrical Engineering.

If you want to get into programming them, you'd probably want to get more involved on the mathematics side, along with Physics.

Thanks for the reply, I'm trying to understand your advice. Physics + Electrical Engineering I see as covering your electronic plus your "Quantum" knowledge which does make sense for making the hardware. I don't 100% understand the mathematics + physics, certainly you can learn to code on your own, but these are the most non-linear processors we've ever made, with presumably not any mature sdks available (although I think Microsoft is working on Visual Studio for Quantum Computers) shouldn't you take Computer Science? Or are so many of the old conventions of CS obsolete under these circumstances Physics + Mathematics outweigh it completely because of the underlying knowledge you'll gain and the advanced math that will help you make the algorithms you'll need to program non-linearly?

And on the side of following your advice for QC whilst also trying to get in some AI, couldn't I go through CE + Math thereby having some electrical engineering which I could mature at the graduate level if necessary and be able to use applied mathematics for the physics work, or converting it into physics at the graduate level?
 
I understand your thinking there. Most that I have spoken with have said that Quantum Computing in NO WAY = Computer Science. It's a completely different world.

Sure Microsoft is developing their SDK, and IBM has their own as well it seems (I'm sure most places developing are working on their own), but from what I understand most of the basic computer science needs are actually a part of most Physics program curriculum (Usually some sort of C, and MatLab courses). Programming a quantum computer is much more mathematics and quantum physics heavy than CS heavy. I would take everything I'm saying with a grain of salt though, as I'm not really in the industry, just looking to get started at school to get into it. Try emailing researchers are some labs doing what you want to do and get their input as well!
 
Kyle Bernard said:
I understand your thinking there. Most that I have spoken with have said that Quantum Computing in NO WAY = Computer Science. It's a completely different world.

Sure Microsoft is developing their SDK, and IBM has their own as well it seems (I'm sure most places developing are working on their own), but from what I understand most of the basic computer science needs are actually a part of most Physics program curriculum (Usually some sort of C, and MatLab courses). Programming a quantum computer is much more mathematics and quantum physics heavy than CS heavy.I would take everything I'm saying with a grain of salt though, as I'm not really in the industry, just looking to get started at school to get into it. Try emailing researchers are some labs doing what you want to do and get their input as well!

Alright, I'll try sending out some emails then.
 

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