CSC3132 : Introduction to Quantum Computing
CSC3132 : Introduction to Quantum Computing
- Offered for Year: 2025/26
- Module Leader(s): Dr Jonte Hance
- Lecturer: Dr Ittoop Puthoor
- Owning School: Computing
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 10 |
| ECTS Credits: | 5.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| CSC1031 | Fundamentals of Computing |
Pre Requisite Comment
CSC1031 Fundamentals of Computing or equivalent knowledge of vectors and matrices.
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
N/A
Aims
Quantum computing is the most fundamental change in the theory of computing since the work of Alan Turing in the 1930s. Quantum mechanics has introduced in computing new, physically realizable constructs that have enabled major computational advances in several important problems (e.g., integers factoring, database search, and secure communications). Furthermore, fully functioning quantum computers are now freely accessible on the cloud (e.g., the IBM Q systems).
The main aims of this module are:
• To introduce the mathematical foundations of quantum computing necessary to understand the counterintuitive
features of quantum algorithms.
• To present the fundamental notions of quantum computing.
• To show how quantum circuits can be implemented and run on a simulator or a quantum computer.
Outline Of Syllabus
• Status of the quantum computing field.
• Complex linear algebra.
• Qubits and measurements.
• Single-qubit unitary operations (NOT, Hadamard, Pauli matrices).
• Quantum registers (tensor products).
• Entangled states and EPR paradox.
• Two-qubit operations (CNOT).
• Tensor product of unitary operations.
• No cloning theorem and teleportation protocol.
• Hardware implementations.
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be aware of and understand:
• The main differences between classical and quantum computers
• Key concepts in quantum information: entanglement, superposition and measurement.
• The quantum circuit notation.
• The different technologies for hardware implementation.
Intended Skill Outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
• write and execute basic quantum circuit using quantum circuit simulators and computers.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 30 | 1:00 | 30:00 | Revise lecture materials. |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 10 | 1:00 | 10:00 | Lectures (in person). |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 20:00 | 20:00 | Preparation for summative assessment. |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 10 | 1:00 | 10:00 | Completion of online problem question sets. |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Practical | 5 | 2:00 | 10:00 | Computer laboratory practicals (in person). |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 5 | 2:00 | 10:00 | Complete lab practicals. |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 5 | 2:00 | 10:00 | Background reading. |
| Total | 100:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The lectures convey the key theoretical concepts, algorithms, and illustrative examples that will be tried and extended upon in the lab. Quantum computing is quite counterintuitive, and therefore a solid understanding of its theory is required – this cannot be learnt by experimentation. The computer practicals give students hands-on experience with quantum circuits run on simulators or quantum computers, to reinforce the theoretical concepts delivered in the lectures.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | 90 | 1 | A | 60 | Summative assessment (closed book exam). |
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 4 | Weekly online assessed question set 1. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 4 | Weekly online assessed question set 2. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 4 | Weekly online assessed question set 3. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 4 | Weekly online assessed question set 4. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 4 | Weekly online assessed question set 5. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 4 | Weekly online assessed question set 6. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 4 | Weekly online assessed question set 7. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 4 | Weekly online assessed question set 8. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 4 | Weekly online assessed question set 9. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 4 | Weekly online assessed question set 10. |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The main aim of the written exam is to assess the student’s understanding of the theory of quantum computing and quantum algorithms delivered through the lectures – this is necessary to measure to what extent the subject is mastered. Online problem questions focus on the student's ability to apply theory to practice and solve simple problems based on material presented in lectures.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- CSC3132's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- CSC3132's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
Welcome to Newcastle University Module Catalogue
This is where you will be able to find all key information about modules on your programme of study. It will help you make an informed decision on the options available to you within your programme.
You may have some queries about the modules available to you. Your school office will be able to signpost you to someone who will support you with any queries.
Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2025 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, staffing changes, and student feedback. Module information for the 2026/27 entry will be published here in early-April 2026. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.