Practical Quantum Computing - Level 4 Course

The Practical Quantum Computing – Level 4 Course looks at this cutting-edge field of technology that harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics to perform complex calculations far beyond the capabilities of traditional computers.

Instead of using bits, which can be either 0 or 1, quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously thanks to phenomena like superposition and entanglement. This allows them to explore a vast number of possibilities at once, making quantum systems especially powerful for tasks such as simulating molecular interactions, optimizing logistics, and solving cryptographic challenges. Though still in its early stages, quantum computing promises to revolutionize industries by enabling new solutions to problems previously considered impossible.

Our Practical Quantum Computing course takes you behind the scenes of this developing technology, providing everything you need to know, expressed in simple terms, to gain an understanding of the complex technologies behind quantum computing, and including numerous practical examples, where all of the code is provided. The course also gives you the opportunity to undertake hands-on practical projects using the Python programming language and running them on real cloud-based quantum computers.

The course starts by investigating how quantum computers work and the quantum principles of superposition and entanglement that allow quantum computers to perform numerous tasks simultaneously. We explore the different types of qubits that have been developed to date and how the race is on to develop the perfect qubit that will underpin quantum computing in the future. During the course, you will access cloud-based IBM quantum computers, as well as quantum simulators, and experience using Qiskit, an open-source software framework developed by IBM for programming quantum computers.

Each unit is designed to build on what you learned in the previous unit and the course is designed around the “learn-by-example” methodology, with a wide range of real-life examples provided to demonstrate new concepts as you learn them. You also get the chance to practice your skills with a number of interesting assignments. You will even build you own quantum circuits and algorithms and run them on a real quantum computer.

On successful completion of the course, students will receive the Distance Learning Centre Practical Quantum Computing Diploma with feedback and analysis of your completed work, as well as an Open Awards Quality Endorsed Unit Course Certificate.

The lesson notes are delivered through slides giving you the required information to work through each lesson and there are student files you will download to work on so you are putting into practice what you are learning. You will also be supported by a personal tutor who is available to provide feedback on your work at any time throughout the period of study.

Based on the proven "learn by example” principle which, as the name implies, provides real-world examples to illustrate a particular topic or technique, the courses are delivered through our on-line training portal via a standard web browser, such as Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera, or Safari.

A sound general knowledge of IT and a working knowledge of the Python language would be advantageous, but is not a mandatory requirement.

The hardware and software requirements include:

• Intel or equivalent processor (multiple CPUs would be advantageous, but not required);
• A graphics card (GPU) would be advantageous, but not required;
• 2mb RAM;
• 500mb available disk storage;
• An Internet connection;
• Windows or MacOS or Linux operating system;
• Google Chrome browser.

You can start this course at any time, and you would be registered for a one-year period. You also have access to a personal tutor who can be contacted by email. Your tutor is available to assist with any queries and to mark your assignments for the Awarding Body.

As the course is self-study, you can complete it as quickly as you like. Support extensions are available if students do not complete the course within the one-year period.

Through your assignments, you will gain hands-on experience of creating quantum circuits on an actual cloud-based quantum computer, as well as a range of quantum simulators. You will also optimize a quantum circuit with multiple gates, use the Aer Simulator to create a quantum circuit with a built-in noise model that accurately simulates a real quantum computer, and write a real quantum app that you will run on a quantum computer. Assignments can be submitted to your course tutor by on completion of your training.

On successful completion of this course students will receive our Practical Quantum Compting Diploma with feedback on your work and providing the assignments have been completed to the required standards students will also receive a Level 4 Open Awards Quality Endorsed Unit Course Certificate with 8 Open Awards Credits.

The completion of this course alone does not lead to an Ofqual regulated qualification but may be used as evidence of knowledge and skills towards regulated qualifications in the future. To this end the learning outcomes of the course have been benchmarked at Level 3 against level descriptors published by Ofqual, to indicate the depth of study and level of difficulty involved in successful completion by the learner.

You can find further information on qualifications/certificates and their levels on the Ofqual's level descriptors page.

The certification is issued through Open Awards. Open Awards are an Awarding Body Organisation approved by Ofqual. Set up in 1981, Open Awards (Previously the North West Region of the National Open College Network - OCNNW) have been in business for over 30 years and are a not for profit organisation and a registered charity.