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Quantum Theory and Quantum Information - MAT00089H

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  • Department: Mathematics
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25
    • See module specification for other years: 2023-24

Related modules

Pre-requisite modules

Co-requisite modules

  • None

Prohibited combinations


Additional information

This module is taught at both H and M level.  You can only take the module once.

This module cannot be taken in year4 of MMath; the M-level option is MSc only 

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2024-25

Module aims

This module will introduce quantum theory for finite-dimensional spaces in an axiomatic way. This setting is particularly appropriate to discuss recent and important applications of quantum theory. Examples drawn mainly from quantum information, may include powerful quantum algorithms or novel quantum cryptographic protocols that have no classical counterparts.

Module learning outcomes

  1. Familiarity with the axiomatic structure of quantum theory in a finite-dimensional setting

  2. Understanding of essential quantum features such as quantum states, measurements, the role of probability and the bra-ket notation

  3. Understanding of the ways in which quantum information is more powerful than classical

  4. Be able to understand and construct simple quantum circuits

  5. Understand what a universal quantum computer is

Module content

In the past few decades a quantum mechanical theory of information has emerged. The central idea is that processing of information requires physical objects and hence physics provides the ultimate limitations on information processing. For microscopic systems, quantum mechanics provides the correct physical description and opens up new possibilities to perform tasks in ways that would be impossible based on classical information alone. This course will systematically develop the required tools from quantum theory before presenting applications such as quantum computing, quantum algorithms or quantum cryptography that are active research areas.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 100

Module feedback

Current Department policy on feedback is available in the student handbook. Coursework and examinations will be marked and returned in accordance with this policy.

Indicative reading

M A Nielsen & I L Chang, Quantum Computation and Quantum Information. Cambridge University Press, 2000


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.