University of Birmingham School of Computer Science
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SYLLABUS PAGE, 2009/10

06-22457
Quantum Computing and Cryptography

Level 4/M

Dr S Vickers
10 credits in Sem2

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The School of Computer Science Module Description is a strict subset of this Syllabus Page. (The University module description has not yet been checked against the School's.)

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Module Web Page

Outline

This module introduces the concepts and techniques of Quantum Computation and Cryptography. It aims to introduce the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, and to show how these principles lead to a new paradigm for computation. The principles of quantum mechanics will also lead us to new methods for cryptography which we will analyse in detail and speculate on future prospects.

Aims

The aims of this module are to:

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the student should be able to: Assessed by:
1 Explain the differences between classical and quantum computation and cryptography. Examination
2 Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of quantum mechanics. Examination
3 Be able to analyse a variety of algorithms from quantum computation and cryptography. Examination
4 Describe the current state of practical quantum computation and cryptographic devices. Examination

Restrictions, Prerequisites and Corequisites

Restrictions:

None.

Prerequisites:

None

Co-requisites:

None

Teaching

Teaching methods:

3 lectures/tutorials per week

Contact hours:

Approx. 36

Assessment

Normal (sessional): 1.5 hr examination (100%).

Resit (supplementary) (where allowed): As the normal assessment.

Recommended Books

Title Author(s) Publisher, Date
Quantum Computation and Quantum Information Michael A Nielsen and Isaac L Chuang Cambridge University Press, 2002
Explorations in Quantum Computing C P Williams & S H Clearwater Springer-Verlag, 1998
Quantum Computer Science N David Mermin Cambridge University Press, 2007

Detailed Syllabus

  1. Quantum Computation
    • Comparison with Classical Computation
    • Principles of Quantum Mechanics
    • Quantum Logic Circuits
    • Algorithms for Quantum Computers
    • Quantum Teleportation
    • Building a Quantum Computer
  2. Quantum Cryptography
    • Implication of Quantum Computation for Classical Cryptography
    • Protocols for Quantum Cryptography
    • Future Prospects

Programmes | Modules | Links | Outline | Aims | Outcomes | Prerequisites | Teaching | Assessment | Books | Detailed Syllabus