The Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) have announced an undergraduate curriculum for quantum technologies. The curriculum is designed to provide training for developing a skilled workforce that meets global standards while addressing the multidisciplinary needs of quantum technology development, ranging from basic to applied research. The course structure encompasses all four key areas of quantum technology: quantum computing, quantum communications, quantum sensing and metrology, and quantum materials and devices.
The proposed curriculum consists of at least 18 credits, including both theory and lab courses, read the release. Each course is worth 3 credits, with 1 credit corresponding to 1 hour of in-class instruction per week for a theory course or 1 lab session of 3 hours for a lab course. As a result, the minor programmed will require at least 6 courses. In addition to this course, the National Quantum Mission, in collaboration with AICTE, is planning to support the establishment of laboratories to enhance teaching in quantum technologies.
This initiative will also include the development of course materials and programmes aimed at increasing awareness of quantum technologies. The curriculum is designed to provide training that will help develop a skilled workforce capable of meeting global standards. It will also address the multidisciplinary requirements of quantum technology development, covering both basic and applied research.
It is designed for undergraduate students to establish a strong foundational and advanced knowledge base keeping in mind the diversity in the institutions, and will enable all engineering students irrespective of their disciplines to undertake a UG minor in quantum technologies from their third or fourth semester,\u201d said Professor Abhay Karandikar, secretary Department of Science and Technology.”
