MS in QSE: the FAQs

You do not specifically need a physics background. However, we do require an undergraduate degree in physics, engineering, chemistry, computer science, or mathematics. While we welcome applicants from a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds, students with a strong background in mathematics and analysis, and prior exposure to physics, chemistry, or computational tools, are better suited to succeed in the program.

Whether advancing quantum hardware, crafting transformative algorithms, or securing tomorrow’s data, there are endless pathways from the MS in Quantum Science and Engineering. Graduates leave ready to seize roles like Quantum Hardware Engineer, Software or Algorithm Developer, Photonics or Optics Engineer, Quantum Applications Scientist, and Cryptography Specialist.

Students gain experience with manipulating a real qubit in a solid-state platform and with programming current quantum hardware on the cloud, e.g., of IBM or QuEra.

We ask all interested applicants to complete our online application and follow our admission procedures.

Rolling admissions, with a suggested deadline of March 31st.

You can only apply to one GRS program per entry term. For example, you may not apply to both the MS in Quantum Science and Engineering and the MS in Statistics for the same entry term.

No. You can still submit your GRE score as an optional part for your application if you wish, but not submitting a GRE score will not have a negative impact on your application.

We do not have a minimum work experience requirement for applicants to this program. The Admissions Committee takes internships and cooperative education assignments into account, but those experiences are usually considered supplementary.

Students may begin the program in the fall.

Students earn a Master of Science in Quantum Science and Engineering from the Boston University Graduate School of Arts & Sciences.

The on-campus MS in Quantum Science and Engineering’s 32-credit curriculum typically takes one year to complete.

This program is fully on-campus in Boston at our Charles River location.

Please see our Tuition and Fees page.

All students are considered for merit-based partial tuition scholarships

Federal unsubsidized loans are available to U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents. Learn more on our financial aid page here.