{"id":4645,"date":"2026-02-17T07:34:38","date_gmt":"2026-02-17T12:34:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/physics\/?page_id=4645"},"modified":"2026-03-26T11:38:07","modified_gmt":"2026-03-26T15:38:07","slug":"faqs","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/physics\/graduate-program\/ms-quantum\/faqs\/","title":{"rendered":"MS in QSE: the FAQs"},"content":{"rendered":"
Industry Exploration Questions<\/h6>\n

Do I need a physics background to study quantum science?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

What careers are available in the quantum industry?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

Whether advancing quantum hardware, crafting transformative algorithms, or securing tomorrow\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

What kinds of hands-on experience does this program provide?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

Application Questions<\/h6>\n

How do I begin the application process?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

We ask all interested applicants to complete our online application<\/a> and follow our admission procedures.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

When is the deadline to apply?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

The application deadline is April 15. Late applications may be considered if space is still available.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

Can I apply to the MS in Quantum Science and Engineering and another GRS program?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

Do I need to take the GRE?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

Is work experience required?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

Program & Structure Questions<\/h6>\n

When does the program start?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

Students may begin the program in the fall.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

What degree will I earn after the completion of the program?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

Students earn a Master of Science in Quantum Science and Engineering from the Boston University Graduate School of Arts & Sciences.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

How long does the program take to complete?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

The on-campus MS in Quantum Science and Engineering\u2019s 32-credit curriculum typically takes one year to complete.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

What is the program modality?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

This program is fully on-campus in Boston at our Charles River location.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

Tuition & Financial Aid Questions<\/h6>\n

How much does the program cost?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

Please see our Tuition and Fees<\/a> page.<\/p>\n

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Is financial aid available?<\/h4>
<\/p>\n

All students are considered for merit-based partial tuition scholarships<\/p>\n

Federal unsubsidized loans are available to U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents. Learn more about financial aid<\/a> and scholarships<\/a> at Boston University.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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