Quantum Information Science and Engineering
New Courses in Quantum Information Science & Engineering
2025 is the United Nations’ International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. From computing and communications to sensing and security, quantum technologies are redefining what is possible. At UIC, we are proud to be part of this global movement. Explore our new courses and start your journey into the next technological revolution.
The ECE department is pleased to announce a new undergraduate course sequence in Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE).
This initiative introduces students to the emerging applications of quantum mechanics in computing, communication, hardware, and sensing. Designed for students with interests across engineering, computer science, and related fields, the QISE track offers a rigorous yet accessible entry point into one of the most rapidly advancing areas of science and technology.
By engaging with these courses, students will develop the conceptual and technical tools needed to help shape the next generation of quantum technologies—poised to transform how we process, transmit, and secure information.
Undergraduate quantum courses
ECE 394 Fall 2025: A Primer on Quantum Information Science and Technology for Engineers
Instructor: Adina Luican-Mayer
Description: This course provides a practical and intuitive introduction to quantum mechanics, quantum science and technology designed specifically for engineering students. ECE 394 will introduce foundational quantum mechanics concepts and emphasize real-world applications and technology applications.
Prerequisites: PHYS 142 (General Physics II—Electricity and Magnetism) and MATH 220 (Introduction to Differential Equations).
Co-requisites: MATH 310 (Applied Linear Algebra) and ECE 341 (Probability and Random Processes for Engineers). Note: ECE 341 may be replaced by IE 342 (Probability and Statistics for Engineers), or STAT 401 (Introduction to Probability), or equivalent course approved by the instructor.
Schedule: MWF 1:00 pm -1:50 pm, BH 317.
CRN 50469
ECE 394 Spring 2026: Introduction to Quantum Computation and Communication
Instructor: Lane Gunderman
Description: This course will introduce many of the essential aspects of quantum computation and communication, aimed at third year undergraduates. We will cover qubits, superposition, and measurement rules. Multiple qubits and the essential single and multi-qubit gates along with entanglement and the no-cloning theorem. Protocols such as superdense coding and state and gate teleportation. Basic algorithms: Deutsch-Jozsa, Grover search, and parts of Shor’s algorithm for factoring. A brief introduction to information theoretic topics and density matrix representation, as well as simple quantum error-correction methods. Communication protocols such as BB84 and E91. Other topics may include: Hamiltonian simulation, superoperators, POVMs, quantum walks, Trotterization, among others.
Prerequisites: MATH 310, and either ECE 394 (Fall, 2025) or PHYS 240, or consent of the instructor.
ECE 394 Spring 2026: Introduction to Quantum Hardware and Sensing
Instructor: Ian Mondragon-Shem
Description: This course will discuss the leading quantum hardware platforms currently being developed for quantum computing and sensing applications. Covered platforms include superconducting circuits, neutral atoms, trapped ions, and nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond. Students will examine the essential physical components required to build a quantum computer, such as identifying qubit states, implementing quantum gates, mitigating decoherence and dissipation, and performing quantum state readout. The course will also introduce basic concepts in quantum sensing, focusing on how various platforms rely on quantum effects to achieve enhanced measurement sensitivity.
Prerequisites: Either ECE 394 (Fall, 2025) or PHYS 240, or consent of the instructor.
Quantum graduate courses with technical electives
Quantum Graduate Courses, and Technical Electives
Fall 2025 courses
ECE 491 Introduction to Quantum Materials and Devices
Instructor: Zizwe Chase
Description: This course will provide an introduction to quantum materials and devices to both graduate and advanced undergraduate students from all QIS-related backgrounds (ECE, PHYS, EP, Math, MIE, and CS). Topics covered in this course include: 1) Harmonic Oscillator and Coupled Quantum Systems; 2) Quantum Sensors; QDs; Superconducting qubits; qCED; photonic devices; ion trap; transmon; 3) Synthesis of quantum materials; solution growth; hydrothermal synthesis; floating zone crystal growth, high-throughput methods; high pressure synthesis 4) Optical measurement techniques and other characterization; 5) Intro to quantum optics.
Schedule: MWF 12: 00 pm – 12:50 pm, SH 303
CRN 47601 undergraduate, CRN 47602 graduate
ECE 594 Quantum Error Correction
Instructor: Lane Gunderman
Description: Some classical error-correcting codes followed by basic quantum error-correcting codes. The stabilizer formalism and the Calderbank-Shor-Steane Theorem. The Clifford group and hierarchy. Beyond this, recent advances in fault-tolerance are covered.
Schedule: TR 3:30 pm- 4:45 pm, CDRLC 2403
CRN: 44943
ECE 594, Quantum Engineering: Quantum Optics and Devices
Instructor: Thomas Searles
Description: This laboratory-based course will provide an introduction to quantum optics and devices accessible to both graduate and undergraduate students from QIS-related backgrounds (ECE, PHYS, EP, Math, and CS) through experiential learning performing experiments with current, near-term quantum technologies. It covers main topics in quantum optics, basic quantum information protocols and their implementation using quantum optics, and representative quantum device architectures (e.g., electron on Helium, transmon superconducting qubit and photonic qubits) for quantum information processing. And the laboratory exercises aim to build skills across many qubit platforms teaching basics in programming of cloud-based quantum computers, FPGA readout of superconducting qubits and manipulation and measurement of photonic qubits.
Schedule: R 11:00 am – 1:50 pm 3267 SEL
CRN 50589
